Oakland Raiders: Is offensive tackle the top draft need?
The Oakland Raiders have multiple roster voids to address. Should we consider offensive tackle the No. 1 need for the 2018 NFL Draft?
Looking through a few mock drafts, you’ll notice some writers and analysts chose an offensive tackle for the Oakland Raiders, specifically Notre Dame product Mike McGlinchey.
It’s not a terrible choice, but the need for an offensive tackle isn’t as dire as some project for the Silver and Black. Sure, Donald Penn didn’t look as good as his unreal 2016 campaign, but he only allowed four sacks in 2017, per Pro Football Focus Elite.
The 34-year old still pass protects better than a majority of the players at his position on quarterback Derek Carr‘s blindside and remains under contract through the 2019 season, per Spotrac. The right side of the offensive line could use an upgrade to ensure the franchise signal-caller stays clean throughout the game.
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According to PFF Elite, Marshall Newhouse allowed eight sacks in 2017. The front office will likely wipe his contract off the books and save $1.75 million during the offseason.
It’s not a bad idea to draft an offensive tackle to compete for the starting right spot, but the Raiders should address a bigger need in the first round. Oakland may already have Newhouse’s replacement on the roster in David Sharpe, who played 124 snaps during his rookie campaign.
The coaching staff should see what the 2016 fourth-rounder could do as a starter before considering a high draft pick 2018.
Just in case the Florida prospect flops, it’s wise to sign a veteran free agent to a short-term deal similar to Newhouse. Among the top free-agent names, the Pittsburgh Steelers will allow offensive lineman Chris Hubbard to hit the market, per ESPN.com reporter Jeremy Fowler:
Steelers trying to keep Le'Veon Bell, but their second-biggest UFA, tackle Chris Hubbard, is likely to get quality contract on the market. The Steelers can meet w/ Hubbard's reps but understand that after acquitting himself well in 10 starts, Hubbard can probably start elsewhere
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 22, 2018
Hubbard is a versatile asset who can play multiple positions but started nine games at right tackle in 2017.
The Raiders should also keep their eyes on Cameron Fleming, a 25-year old offensive tackle who performed well in spot starting duty for the New England Patriots during the previous term. Oakland could also re-sign tight end Lee Smith, who’s often dubbed as a sixth lineman, to help out a weaker right tackle.
Don’t forget general manager Reggie McKenzie also selected an athletic offensive tackle in Jylan Ware in the seventh round last year. He’s a raw prospect but could push for some live snaps after developing on the practice field throughout another offseason.
Next: NFL Free Agency: Top 50 players, signing predictions
It’s not time to hit the panic button at offensive tackle yet. The Raiders have options to try out before investing in a first-rounder in April. McGlinchey may develop into a quality player in the league. Nonetheless, defensive coordinator Paul Guenther will need some fresh talent on all three levels of the defense that fit his scheme. Why not start with selecting prospects at the top of the draft?
For the time being, Penn should continue to hold his spot on the blindside. The front office could go with a cheap alternative or an in-house candidate on the right.