Oakland Raiders: Unlikely ideal draft prospects at No. 10?

Denzel Ward

Ward didn’t receive too many votes, but he’s still considered the top cornerback in the 2018 draft class. He checked in at 5’11”, 183 pounds during the combine, but he’s a willing tackler who should be able to hold his own against quicker wideouts in the slot.

The Ohio State product brings grit and toughness to the field. His smaller stature may actually influence him to play with a bigger chip on his shoulder. In one unlikely scenario, the Raiders could pair Ward with Gareon Conley to form a Buckeye duo in the secondary.

Oakland signed Rashaan Melvin during free agency. He’s set to line up on the perimeter. The rest remains fluid at the position. The front office expects a lot from Conley, but he barely played as a rookie. Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther would experiment with the fit between the two Ohio State products.

Despite placing last with the fewest votes, the Raiders would certainly luck out with Ward on the board at No. 10.

Next: NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected first-round picks, final week

While many feel Barkley goes to the Cleveland Browns at No. 4, it’s possible general manager John Dorsey locks down his starting cornerback after selecting a franchise quarterback at the top of the draft. If not, the Broncos and San Francisco 49ers may stand as the only obstacles who could prevent a Conley-Ward reunion.

Prediction: Cleveland Browns draft Ward at No. 4