Oakland Raiders: Grading Out The 2015 Draft Class

Nov 29, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Trey Marshall (20) chases down Florida Gators wide receiver Andre Debose (4) during the first half of the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Round 7: (221) WR Andre Debose

Oakland’s special teams were more than a bit lacking last season. McKenzie chose to address that by adding Debose, the speedster out of Florida with his second pick in the seventh round.

While perhaps an average receiver, Debose really shined on special teams. In four years at Florida, he compiled 2,111 yards on kickoff returns – a 26.7 average per return. He also converted 23 punt returns into 323 yards, or a 14 yard average per return.

While some may think that adding Debose was a luxury, or perhaps a wasted pick, it actually serves a very solid, very practical purpose. With Travis Carrie – who served as the team’s primary return man last season – set to expand his role on defense, and will be serving as the starting corner, the Raiders needed somebody to step in and fill the return man’s role on special teams.

You can’t underscore the importance of field position enough. It can often be the difference between a win and a loss. So you need somebody returning kicks who can help you get the best field position possible. Debose will help Oakland do that.

It’s not the flashiest or sexiest pick – it about ranks up there with taking an offensive lineman in terms of sexiness – but it’s a smart, logical, and practical move.

Grade: B

Next: Round Seven: Dexter McDonald