Oakland Raiders 2014 Draft Prospect: LB Khalil Mack
Nov 29, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Bulls linebacker Khalil Mack (46) against the Bowling Green Falcons at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
With the loss of Lamar Houston to the Chicago Bears via free agency the Oakland Raiders will be in search of a guy to solidify their front seven. Enter Buffalo linebacker Khalil Mack.
Mack is probably the most complete linebacker in this year’s draft, and it’s a big reason why he is going to be the first one off the board. First and foremost he is a great pass rusher off the line but can wreak havoc anywhere he starts off. This includes starting plays on the defensive line as well, but he is not a one-trick pony.
He’s great in coverage and can be a terror against the run too. How much of a terror? So much so that he holds the FBS record (NCAA Division 1) for most tackles for loss with 75 and forced fumbles with 16. So for those who think he’s overhyped, think again.
Probably the biggest knock on him is the level of competition that he faced while at Buffalo. The MAC isn’t the Pac-12 nor the SEC, and it’s always a question mark as to whether these guys will translate to the NFL. But, with a guy as versatile as he is, if things don’t pan out at the outside linebacker postition you can always try and move him somewhere else such as inside.
As things sit right now with the various mock drafts Khalil Mack is definitely the front-runner to be drafted on Thursday night by the Oakland Raiders. While I don’t think he’s a sure thing like Sammy Watkins is, he will definitely come in and make an immediate impact with the potential to be one of the anchors of the defense in a couple of years.
While I do have the same concerns as others about his inferior college competition, there are plenty of guys who have made it work. Yes, he was great against Ohio State with 2.5 sacks and a pick-six, but one game does not a statistical sample make. However if that’s what he can bring to the table on a weekly basis then the Oakland Raiders should be happy to have him.
For those who haven’t seen him play, here’s a great video showcasing his skills. Pay attention at 1:41 where Khalil Mack intercepts a ball then proceeds to outrun the Ohio State receivers. Yea, he’s fast.
And for those who missed our other breakdowns, here they are for Clemson WR Sammy Watkins and Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel. You can also view our 49ers coverage about Virginia CB Kyle Fuller and TCU CB Jason Verrett.