NFL draft rumors: Would a trade up with Giants at No. 4 make sense for Raiders?

There has been much talk about the Raiders trading down, yet there hasn’t been much chatter about them trading up.

Perhaps we should take that as a sign that maybe they are thinking about getting into the top 10. Remember, misinformation is paramount this time of year.

If Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock want to move up, a possible trade partner has emerged as the New York Giants have made it known they’re interested in moving down from No. 4.

If the Raiders were to move up, let’s look at the scenarios:

Who would be likely targets:
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons, Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah, and perhaps Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown,

Why Simmons? He is a unique talent, who could really make this defense special for the long haul.

Why Okudah? The Raiders badly need a cornerback. Why not get the best corner in the draft? Okudah and Trayvon Mullen could grow old together.

Why Brown? The Raiders want a force in the interior of the defensive line. Brown would give that unit an identity and help the likes of Maxx Crosby and Clelin Ferrell greatly.

Cost of moving up using No. 12: The Raiders would probably throw in a first-round pick next year. The lack of a second-round pick this year hurts the cause.

Cost of moving up without No. 12: It would be near impossible. They would have to give No. 19, 2021 first-round pick and a couple third-rounders. That’s not worth it.

Conclusion: The cost is great and it may not be worth it, but the draft is all about special players. So, if the Raiders think either Simmons, Okudah or Brown can be a missing piece, they may consider a move up.