NFL Mock Draft 2016: Taking a swing in Los Angeles

LB. Alabama. Reggie Ragland. 14. player. 28. <p>Remember when the Oakland Raiders were the laughingstock of the NFL? Well, those days are over, as this organization has invested heavily in quality veteran talent while simultaneously building a stockpile of young assets, headlined by QB Derek Carr and pass-rusher Khalil Mack. To that end, the Raiders aren’t simply in “best available player” mode as the 2016 NFL Draft opens, simply because they actually have a chance to compete for the AFC West title.</p> <p>It would be difficult to find a draft expert that thinks Reggie Ragland is better than Ohio State’s Darron Lee as a prospect, and both players are currently available. However, Oakland’s linebacker need comes squarely at the middle linebacker spot, and while Lee is a very nice player in theory, plugging holes and tackling with precision are not his strengths right now.</p> <p>They do, however, line up nicely with Ragland.</p> <p>If there is a criticism of Ragland, it is that some see him as a two-down player because of his lack of explosiveness in coverage. I don’t think that will be an issue, though, as Ragland is a better athlete than given credit for and he can become a passable third-down player in the future. Beyond that, he is easily the best tackler and run-support linebacker in this class, and Oakland would be getting an immediate stud against the run at a position they need. It’s a win-win.</p>