Oakland Raiders: Post-free agency four-round mock draft

Given their reluctance and disdain to address the position in the early rounds (to the dismay of a great many), McKenzie and Gruden finally address their need for a linebacker in the fourth-round.

At six-foot-four, 256 pounds, Leighton Vander Esch has good size to play the position, and having run a 4.6 40, he’s got decent enough speed.

Vander Esch was only a one-year starter for Boise State, but the 2017 Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, put on a fantastic performance in that one year. For the season, he had 141 tackles (90 solo), with four forced fumbles, five passes defensed, 8.5 tackles for a loss, and four sacks.

Vander Esch was solid against both the run and the pass, is fluid in his movements, goes sideline-to-sideline very well, has good size and length. He showed a very natural instinct for the ball, speed to chase it down, is a more than willing tackler, and has a relentlessly aggressive streak that should make Gruden smile.

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Oakland’s linebackers group is in a bit of flux right now. If Bowman doesn’t come back, we may see Whitehead, Wilber, and Nicholas Morrow (who excelled as a rookie UDFA), starting. Cory James and Marquel Lee (neither of whom has really panned out to this point) will be playing supporting roles.

It’s obvious that the team needs an infusion of talent at the position.

He’s no Raquon Smith – but then, who is? – but Vander Esch has natural physical gifts, plenty of intangibles, and a high motor. He’s just the kind of player Gruden likes and could be a solid contributor to this Raiders defense.