Oakland Raiders: Three roster holes and how to fill them in the draft

Tackle: Kolton Miller, UCLA

Offensive tackle is probably the most important hole to fill in the draft. The only reason this was not the position taken in the prior slide is because the lack of top tier talent at the position in this draft. This is by far the weakest tackle draft class in recent memory.

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Regardless, the team can not afford to enter the season without adding a starting right tackle. The reason for the team’s success back in 2016 was largely due to the team’s then elite offensive line. If they want to return to that form the offensive line must do the same.

Keeping Derek Carr healthy should also be the team’s number one priority. Selecting the offensive tackle out of UCLA, Kolton Miller, in the second round can accomplish just that.

Miller will come into the league already a capable pass protector but will need to continue to improve as a run blocker. His physical traits make it very unlikely that he will not be at least decent at pass protection, he is a whopping 6’9”, making him a very safe pick.

On a team that already has four other very good offensive linemen, the safe pick is the way to go. Even if he is just average in his rookie season, that will be enough to solidify this offensive line and improve the offense tremendously. On top of that, the presence of these four other offensive linemen will make it easier on Miller.