Oakland Raiders: 5 Sleepers to target in 2018 NFL Draft

1. Will Richardson, OT, NC State

Right tackle has been an obvious position of need for the Oakland Raiders for the past few years. They signed veteran Breno Giacomini to help solidify their right tackle situation over the offseason, but he does not immediately solve their issues.

Giacomini is a solid NFL player, but he is just an average starting right tackle and he does not bring any long-term stability. The Raiders could decide to solve their right tackle issues in the early rounds of the 2018 NFL Draft, but if they decide to wait until the mid-to-late rounds, NC State’s Will Richardson should be their guy.

Richardson has off-field issues that could cause him to slip down the board, but he is an extremely talented and stable offensive tackle prospect who has a lot of upside at the next level.

Richardson’s ability as both a run blocker and pass protector is awfully impressive. He shows great initial power, consistently driving opposing defensive linemen back in the run game. He fires off of the ball quickly, throws a strong punch and keeps his feet moving.

Next: 7-Round Mock Draft for Raiders

Richardson is a powerful player who also showcases extremely quick feet. His ability to reach the second level as a run blocker is impressive, as is his ability to mirror edge rushers as a pass protector. Make no mistake about it, Richardson is a talented offensive tackle prospect who has a lot of natural upside at the next level.

Simply put, the Oakland Raiders need to find a viable long-term right tackle prospect who can help them both now and in the future. Richardson can be their guy.