Post-Super Bowl NFL Mock Draft 2016

player. 28. <p>The D.J. Hayden era hasn’t gone according to plan in Oakland, and with Charles Woodson heading for retirement after yet another banner season at the end of a Hall of Fame career, it is time for the Raiders to invest in the secondary. While Eli Apple isn’t the biggest name in the NFL Draft, the former Buckeye is quickly rising on various draft boards, and he would be a nice addition for Oakland.</p> <p>Apple’s strength is in coverage, and at 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he presents very nice size at the cornerback position. The redshirt sophomore made huge strides during his final season at Ohio State, and there is definite room for growth in addition to the fact that Apple would not be exposed if forced to play big-time snaps on an immediate basis.</p> <p>For me, this choice comes down to Apple against Mackensie Alexander from Clemson, as the Raiders desperately need to a plug a hole for the immediate future. Both players are young and have upside to grow into, but Eli Apple is the safer pick in my view and Oakland would be wise to invest. If the Raiders choose to go away from the secondary, though, keep an eye on the offensive line, especially if a player slides a bit in this first round.</p>. CB. Ohio State. Eli Apple. 14