NFL Mock Draft 2016: Cleveland commits a heist

14. player. 28. <p>This probably isn’t super realistic. <em>Someone</em> will likely take Ezekiel Elliott prior to this spot, but if not, the Raiders will have an interesting decision to make.</p> <p>In my personal opinion, it would be wiser for Oakland to invest in a player along the front seven on the defensive side, especially in the case of Alabama linebacker Reggie Ragland. Ragland is clearly the best inside linebacker in this class, and with running back, it is far easier to acquire talent later in the draft. However, Elliott grades out as a high first-round pick for virtually everyone and I am frankly not a huge fan of Latavius Murray in the long term.</p> <p>To make matters more interesting, Murray will be a free agent in short order and, to put it simply, Elliott is already a much better player. He is the epitome of a three-down back in that he is electric with the ball in his hands while simultaneously bringing top-shelf pass protection and great ball skills in the passing game. In my mind, it would be a shock if Elliott did not turn into an elite player at the next level.</p> <p>Taking a running back this early is a risk and not at all a value proposition. Elliott just might be that good.</p>. RB. Ohio State. Ezekiel Elliott