2019 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys turn the page, Raiders find pass rushers

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HOUSTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 01: Ed Oliver #10 of the Houston Cougars rests on the sideline in the first half against the Rice Owls at Rice Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

3. Oakland Raiders: Ed Oliver, DT, Houston

So far, things have not been smooth sailing for Jon Gruden in his return as the head coach of the Oakland Raiders. He spent 10 seasons in the booth after successful stints with the Raiders followed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — where he won a Super Bowl.

However, it seems as though he’s struggling this time to get things figured out. He bungled the whole Khalil Mack situation, but what was worse is he tried to throw GM Reggie McKenzie under the bus on that one when people questioned why they gave up a second round pick along with Mack for two first-round selections.

Whatever really happened, the fact is Gruden and company need to get this defense fixed quickly or things could get really bad. This year, it likely won’t happen, but if things hold true to this 2019 NFL Mock Draft, they could make a massive improvement next year.

That’s because Ed Oliver out of Houston is still on the board. While he makes sense for either of the first two teams, Bosa edged him out as a fit with the Cardinals and the Texans are just too desperate at offensive tackle to skip on the best in the class.

Great news for the Raiders because Oliver is a complete interior player that will make everyone around him better.

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