The Raiders made a big trade up on the third day of the draft, moving up 12 spots with the Detroit Lions. And with the No. 109 pick, the Raiders selected guard John Simpson from Clemson. The Raiders gave up picks No. 121 and No. 172 in order to get to the top of the fourth round.
Simpson was a full-time starter for the Clemson Tigers in 2019, playing every game at left guard. According to Pro Football Focus, Simpson allowed just 13 pressures all season. While he needs to continue to improve his balance and overall athleticism, he is a mauler in the mold of Gabe Jackson.
With the rumors of the Raiders potentially moving on from Jackson this offseason or soon thereafter, Simpson could be an eventual replacement inside.
Here is a look at the Raiders’ full draft so far in 2020:
No. 12 – WR Henry Ruggs, Alabama
No. 19 – CB Damon Arnette, Ohio State
No. 80 – RB Lynn Bowden, Kentucky
No. 81 – WR Bryan Edwards, South Carolina
No. 100 – LB Tanner Muse, Clemson
No. 109 – OG John Simpson, Clemson
