Oakland Raiders: Top 2015 draft picks under a critical lens

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ORCHARD PARK, NY – OCTOBER 29: Clive Walford #88 of the Oakland Raiders catches a ball before an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

Clive Walford

After suffering injuries in the first two offseasons, tight end Clive Walford fell out of favor heading into the 2017 season. The front office felt the need to provide another reliable receiving option for quarterback Derek Carr at the position.

Tight end Jared Cook signed a two-year, $10.6 million deal that could come off the books in the spring without dead money owed, per Spotrac. He led the team in receiving yards with 688, his second-highest single-season total.

The 30-year old tight end surpassed Walford on the depth chart long ago, but Gruden could revive the 2015 third-rounder’s value with two-tight end sets. Of course, the Miami product would have to improve his blocking skills to take the field in that grouping, but there’s still hope that he’s able to contribute in some shape or form.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Conference Championship edition

Walford caught nine passes for 80 yards in the previous campaign. Unless the Raiders decide to part ways with Cook, the 26-year-old will play a reduced role on his way out of Oakland.

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