2013 NFL Draft Grades: Oakland Raiders

The 2013 NFL Draft has come and gone, and now it’s time for some reflection. While some teams traded around to get who they want, others stood pat to see who would slide to them — and if there’s one thing to remember about this draft it’s players that slid around the rounds. But now that the draft is behind us, the all important grading phase has begun, so lets take a look at how the Oakland Raiders did in this year’s NFL Draft.

Draft Picks

• DJ Hayden, cornerback, Houston — Round 1 (12)
• Menelik Watson, offensive tackle, Florida State — Round 2 (42)
• Sio Moore, linebacker, Connecticut — Round 3 (66)
• Tyler Wilson, quarterback, Arkansas — Round 4 (112)
• Nick Kasa, tight end, Colorado — Round 6 (172)
• Latavius Murray, running back, Central Florida — Round 6 (181)
• Mychal Rivera, tight end, Tennessee — Round 6 (184)
• Stacy McGee, defensive tackle, Oklahoma — Round 6 (205)
• Brice Butler, wide receiver, San Diego State — Round 7 (209)
• David Bass, defensive end, Missouri Western — Round 7 (233)

Best Pick: Menelik Watson

For once, the Raiders managed to work the NFL Draft in their favor. They got their main target in the first-round after trading back, but their best move was being able to select offensive tackle Menelik Watson in the second-round, despite an early run of offensive linemen. Oakland got one of the most athletic offensive tackle prospects with unlimited potential. If the coaches can take advantage of Watson’s skills, he will be a long-time starter for the team.

Analysis: It was refreshing to see the Raiders come away from the draft without being the laughing stock of the NFL. They were able to score talented draft picks in nearly every round, and a number of these players could prove to be key contributors a few years down the road.

2013 Draft Grade: B