Oakland Raiders: 5 Sleeper first-round targets in 2018 NFL Draft
Connor Williams, OT, Texas
Believe it or not, the Raiders have yet to find a viable solution for the right tackle job. It seemed they had done so last year with the signing of Marshall Newhouse, but that was a bust. Then Breno Giacomini was signed back in March, but he’s even worse than his predecessor.
Maybe the Raiders are hoping one of their young, developmental talents will pan out? It’s possible, as players like Vadal Alexander, David Sharpe and even Jylan Ware seem to possess some sort of potential. If I had to guess, though, I’d say none of those three are the answer at right tackle.
That’s why Oakland could seriously consider addressing the position at No. 10 overall. It may not be the flashy way to spend the selection, but protecting your franchise quarterback is rather important in today’s pass-happy NFL. Hence, I’ve included Connor Williams as an option here.
Now, to be honest, I’m a bit surprised by what I’ve been seeing in terms of Williams’ stock. Although most assume he’ll fall somewhere in the second half of the first round, I’ve seen some bozos go as far as mocking him in the third and fourth rounds. This kid was a potential Top 5 selection before some off games and a knee injury tanked his 2017 campaign.
The fact still remains that the former Longhorn has elite potential. Watch his film from 2016, and you’ll understand. If the Raiders see it too, they’ll take a long, hard look at Williams on Day 1.