FanPost

Mock Draft..don't forget about Offensive Line

Hey there Raider Nation. I too am busy prognosticating about potential Raider additions via draft and free agency at this time of year. I see a lot of posts about CB, ILB, and a pass rushing DT being the fans preferred targets...but I don't see anyone with a plan on how to attack the RT position and the future LT after Penn retires.

My gut instinct is that this situation is heavily on Reggie and JDR's minds as they should look to best protect their franchise player and QB who I'm betting signs a huge contract this off-season. While I totally agree there are holes on the defensive side of this roster...OT is also a need and perhaps even bigger of a need.

So lets look at the potential OL who should be available come pick 24:

Roderick Johnson OT Florida State 6'6 310

Johnson is a Jr but figures to come off the board in the first round. Those of you thinking..didn't we just miss on a Florida State Offensive Linemen a few drafts ago? Maybe thats a factor, maybe Mike Tice thinks he could do a lot with the talent. With how quickly Tackles come off the board in the first round, I'd bet if he's available he would be a strong consideration.

Forrest Lamp OL Western Kentucky 6'3 300

Forrest might be the best OL prospect when its all said and done. He played LT at Western Kentucky but figures to move inside once in the pros due to his height (6'3 is considered short for NFL tackle). Either way, Mike Tice would be banging on the table if he thinks he's similar to a Zack Martin (Notre Dame OT who turned into a Pro Bowl Guard rookie year in Dallas). Maybe Osemele moves to RT and Lamp starts at LG in this scenario.

Wild Card: Connor McDermott OT UCLA 6'8 310

This is a wild card because he is slotted as a 3rd rounder. That being said his elite size, Tice's ability as OL coach, and the way tackles come off the board could be a perfect storm for McDermott to land in the first round. Look out for his combine performance to see if he shoots up draft boards. He could immediately compete at RT and be a potential replacement for Penn in the future.

What does the nation think?