2018 NFL Mock Draft: Josh Allen heads to Browns

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MARCH 04: Georgia linebacker Roquan Smith (LB35) runs in the 40 yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 4, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

28. . Linebacker. Georgia. Roquan Smith. 10. player

The Oakland Raiders were supposed to challenge in the AFC West last season, and some outlets had them winning the AFC outright. However, they struggled to a 6-10 season, and after their Week 17 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, the entire coaching staff had been fired. Jack Del Rio was the last domino to fall of the old regime, which was replaced by Jon Gruden and company shortly after.

Gruden has spent the offseason remaking this roster, and they should be much-improved over their six win season a year ago. One area of need is at middle linebacker, where the team has yet to re-sign star NaVorro Bowman. One player who could fill that void is Roquan Smith, who is the best middle linebacker this draft class has to offer, and may be the smartest defensive player available.

Smith had a dominant last season for the Georgia Bulldogs, winning the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award. In addition, he led the team to the national title game, though the Bulldogs did fall short against the Alabama Crimson TIde. Still, he is going to be a fantastic player at the next level, and if the Raiders can add him to the middle of their defense, they should be a contender in the division next season.

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