One thing that we haven’t seen in many mock drafts involving the Raiders is them doubling up in the first round at the same position. That is because Oakland has so many needs on the roster that it can’t afford to do so.
However, there is certainly a scenario that could play out in which the Raiders would be wise to select two players from the same position in the first round. In CBS Sports’ latest mock draft, the Raiders selected two edge rushers with their first two picks. Take a look at their three selections in the first round.
No. 4. Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky
No. 24. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State
No. 27 – Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Josh Allen has been a common selection at pick No. 4, so that’s not a surprise for the Raiders. However, at pick No.2 4, the Raiders taking Florida State’s Brian Burns is somewhat shocking. Burns was one of the most athletic defenders at the NFL combine, running a 4.53 40-yard dash at 249 pounds. Both have the ability to be dominant edge rushers in the NFL.
Together, Allen and Burns would bring youth and athleticism to the Raiders’ defensive line. While the two need some time to develop, adding them with Maurice Hurst and P.J. Hall would give the Raiders one of the youngest and most athletic defensive lines in all of the NFL. If possible, doubling up on edge rushers wouldn’t be the worst strategy in the world for Raiders.
