Oakland Raiders: 7-Round 2019 NFL mock draft to start April

Greedy Williams will likely lead the cornerback class because of his collegiate production at LSU (eight interceptions, 19 pass breakups) and length (6-2, 185 pounds). Byron Murphy’s body movement, footwork and hands looked superb during the combine drills.

With that said, don’t forget Deandre Baker, who hasn’t allowed a touchdown since the 2016 campaign, per Pro Football Focus:

At 5-11, 193 pounds, Baker doesn’t have Williams’ height, and his movements didn’t look smooth at the combine, but he’s an excellent man-to-man defender on the perimeter. The Georgia product uses awareness, ball skills and sometimes gambles to make stops. For the most part, it’s paid off on the collegiate level.

Why would Oakland take a cornerback with a first-round pick? The Raiders spent big money ($42 million over four years) on versatile defensive back Lamarcus Joyner for a reason. The secondary needs playmakers to stop quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Philip Rivers within the division.

Gruden compared Joyner to Ronde Barber. Though it’s a high bar to set for him, he would have solid help on the perimeter with Gareon Conley and Baker. Both cover men can neutralize top-flight wideouts on their side of the field.

Baker should find success early in route sequences when pressing on wideouts right off the line of scrimmage. He’s not fast, but the former Bulldog has make-up speed to close the cushion if a quicker receiver gains on a step on him. Quarterbacks will also have to keep an eye on Baker on intermediate throws because he’ll bait the passer and break on the ball for an interception.