Raiders UDFAs 2012: OG Lucas Nix

One of the bigger stories of this offseason has been the changing of the guard at the offensive helm, and while the team retains coach Al Saunders and his impressive but daunting playbook, it is widely known and accepted with mixed reactions among Raider Nation that Greg Knapp will resume duties as OC of the Oakland Raiders in 2012. With the installation of a zone blocking system, attention has shifted towards not only improving the existing offensive trenches for the silver and black, but getting them 100% ZBS ready as well. First overall selection of 2012 OT Tony Bergstrom demonstrates a quintessential zone blocker that appears to be a key cog to this year's blocking unit expected to keep Carson Palmer upright and help spring Darren McFadden to daylight with the success Houston had with Arian Foster carrying.

As the majority of the remaining picks went defensively and on much needed linebackers with the exception of receiver Juron Criner, while not the Al Davis prototype receiver with blazing speed will provide the Raiders a dangerous, chain-moving, threat the team seriously needs, the Raiders did not hesitate with undrafted free agents in taking the massive guard/tackle 6'5", 317 lb. Lucas Nix, out of Pittsburgh. A prospect with experience playing G, C, and T for Pitt, likely saw his stock find him off the board due to his knee injury keeping him inactive 2011, as well as foot tendinitis, and a brief history that might have haunted him. He has been said to possess a "mean streak" but is hampered by durability questions.

Hit the jump to read more about the Raider's new guard.

NFL.com and SiriusXM radio's one and only "Godfather" Gil Brandt has "Luke" Nix listed as his third best undrafted free agent OL after T James Brown (FS Aaron Henry 2nd among DBs) in this draft HERE from NFL.com and had this to say about the new Raider:

3. Luke Nix, G, Pittsburgh -- Nix is a very aggressive and tenacious blocker. He's tough and smart, and has the ability to pull and get to second level to make blocks.

our very own Levi Damien had him projected 118th overall in his MOCK DRAFT HERE

here are some combine numbers and those from his pro day from CBS nfldraftscout.com, who had him projected in the fourth round, and 8th among 189 guards:

I'm assuming the combine numbers we're missing here are bench press numbers and that he skipped it at the combine.

Here's a link to the source with background and video.

Nix brings great size, pedigree, and resume to the position, and is arguably every bit as good as FA Heyer provided the team last year; it appears the only question is if the injury will linger or hamper his ability to play at the pro level. He likely rounds out the depth necessary for the team to enter the season should he earn the roster spot the opportunity presents. Position versatility make it a winning pick, even if he only provides depth.

For the record, he's got my vote of confidence.

Here's a link to the Pittsburgh Panthers home site with a profile.