Oakland Raiders: Final rankings of team needs before 2018 NFL Draft

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OAKLAND, CA – SEPTEMBER 17: Buster Skrine #41 of the New York Jets breaks up a pass in the endzone to Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of their NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

5. Wide Receiver

After signing wideout Jordy Nelson, the Raiders released their most clutch pass-catcher in the Michael Crabtree.

Nelson didn’t lose a step after tearing his ACL in 2015. He returned the following year and led the league with 14 touchdown receptions. His numbers dipped with Brett Hundley taking over for Aaron Rodgers due to a collarbone injury.

Carr should feel confident in a wide receiver tandem featuring Amari Cooper and Nelson. On the other hand, Seth Roberts has squandered enough opportunities to lose his quarterback’s trust as a reliable third asset.

After playing through a double hernia during the 2016 campaign, Roberts continued to struggle in the previous term. He reached the end zone only once in 2017. Tight end Jared Cook can lighten the wide receiver load. Nonetheless, there’s only one year left on his deal that could save $5.6 million if the team needs to recoup cash to sign a high-priority free agent. Will the front office keep him around?

Roberts should drop to No. 4 on the wide receiver depth chart with another young asset filling the void behind Cooper and Nelson. The Raiders should consider a wideout between Rounds 3 and 5 with the intent to groom him for the No. 2 spot.

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