Oakland Raiders: 5 Potential 2019 NFL Draft targets to watch

David Montgomery, Running Back, Iowa State

Iowa State running back David Montgomery could declare for the 2019 draft after his junior season. If he decides to go pro, the Raiders should have him in for visits and take a long look at his tape. In two years, the Cyclones tailback has established himself as one of the most elusive ball-carriers in the country, per Pro Football Focus:

"While Montgomery didn’t light up the stat sheet like some of the nation’s other running backs, he was the most efficient runner outside of his offensive line. He set a PFF-era record (dating back to 2014) with 102 forced missed tackles (81 as a runner, 23 as a receiver), while averaging 3.5 yards after contact per rush."

Brian Baldinger, an NFL film analyst and former player of 12 years, took a closer look at Montgomery on the move:

The number of broken tackles tells you what Montgomery can do with the football. Baldinger’s play sequence breakdown shows how it’s done. Nonetheless, he’s not just a speed-and-dash ball-carrier with some wiggle. The Iowa State running back will also run over a defender blocking a pathway to the end zone:

Montgomery can put power and leverage behind his pads to grind out first downs in short-yardage situations. He may also drag a defender across the goal line with some tenacity.

It’s scary to think he’ll have another collegiate season to sharpen his understanding of formations, alignments and further improve his pass-protection skills.

Running backs Marshawn Lynch and Doug Martin only have a year left on their current deals, per Spotrac. DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard have similar skill sets. Neither looks like a starting-caliber player at this point. The Raiders will need a new lead back next year.

Oakland opted to pass on prospects at the position in April, but Gruden could encourage general manager Reggie McKenzie to choose a top running back early in the 2019 draft. If Montgomery comes out, he’s someone to follow.