Oakland Raiders: A Look At A Few Roster Needs And Potential Draft Fits

Offensive Tackle

Oakland is going to need to think about taking another tackle in the Draft. Given the persistent problems on the right side of the line – as well as age beginning to creep up on stalwart left tackle Donald Penn – the Raiders would be wise to start stockpiling a little talent on the line.

If your line is leaky, it’s going to cause absolute chaos for your offense. You won’t be able to run and your quarterback is likely going to get killed if you can’t protect him.

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And while David Sharpe and Jylan Ware are big, imposing men, neither has shown they can be dominant. Marshall Newhouse has performed well enough, it’s obvious that he’s not the long term solution either.

Which means the Raiders might want to look into drafting a tackle. An offensive lineman doesn’t make for the sexiest of picks, but hey, if he can help shore up your line and help you win the battle in the trenches, you have to go for it.

West Georgia’s Desmond Harrison has a couple of red flags in his past – a couple of failed drug tests – but he’s seemed to keep his nose clean after being dismissed from Texas.

At six-foot-seven, 300 pounds, Harrison has the size to play tackle in the NFL. And he has the speed, strength, and athleticism to go with it.

Scouts have taken notice of Harrison, meaning he could be gone within the first few rounds. And he could help improve his stock in the weeks leading up to the Draft. Given Oakland’s need for some depth and consideration for the future, they might want to take a look at Harrison.

Other Possibilities: Kolton Miller, Andre Dillard, Connor Williams