Oakland Raiders: Grading Out The 2015 Draft Class

Nov 8, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Johnny McCrary (2) is hit by Florida Gators linebacker Neiron Ball (11) during the second half at Vanderbilt Stadium. The Gators won 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Round 5: (161) OLB Neiron Ball

By making a deal with the Carolina Panthers, the Raiders were able to acquire a second pick in the fifth round of the draft, and used it on Florida’s Neiron Ball – much to the chagrin of many.

On the surface, it doesn’t seem to be a particularly smart pick. Oakland is pretty well stocked at outside linebacker, which Khalil Mack and Sio Moore leading the way. Malcolm Smith joined the Raiders in the offseason and Oakland still has Ray Ray Armstrong as well as Bojay Filimoeatu on the roster – both good prospects though still developing.

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The selection of Ball seems to further crowd that outside linebacker position and doesn’t seem to make much sense at first blush. Especially when the Raiders had a more pressing need in the defensive backfield.

Scouts say that Ball is the polar opposite of Heeney in that he reacts rather than forces the action. He is however, quick and powerful. He is very capable of running down opposing quarterbacks or ball carriers. He can also lay a big hit on tight ends or receivers who dare venture over the middle.

There is no guarantee that Ball makes the 53 man roster. Perhaps he’s there to serve as camp competition for Armstrong and Filimoeatu. Perhaps he can even beat one of them out. Or perhaps he is playing for a spot on the practice squad. There’s just no saying at this point.

If Ball can play his heart out and make the roster, perhaps as a special teamer to start, he may develop into something. But it’s a long, steep hill for him to climb just to make the roster.

While Ball has plenty of potential and upside, this wasn’t one of McKenzie’s better picks in this draft.

Grade: C-

Next: Round Six: Max Valles