NFL Draft: Grading each 2018 first-round pick after Week 11
By Randy Gurzi
15. Oakland Raiders: Kolton Miller, OT
One of the more shocking picks made in the 2018 NFL Draft came when the Oakland Raiders took Kolton Miller out of UCLA. The former Bruins offensive tackle wasn’t a consensus first-round pick and Oakland had some even bigger needs to fill.
Despite those needs, head coach Jon Gruden Jon Gruden was only interested in Miller and after dropping down in the first, he landed his guy. And then Miller had to start early as Donald Penn dealt with injury problems.
This wasn’t ideal for the Raiders as the young man struggled mightily this season. He currently ranks as the No. 72 tackle in the NFL according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required) and he hasn’t really been good in either pass protection or opening holes for the ground game.
More. Coaches on the hot seat. light
It sure feels like Oakland reached here, which was something they also did in the second round. That’s not too encouraging for fans who are hoping they turn things around thanks to their multiple picks in 2019.
They have an extra first due to trading Khalil Mack as well as one for Amari Cooper. Then they have their own which could be the first pick. Looking at what they did here, there’s no reason to be too optimistic.
Grade: D
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