2019 NFL Draft: Oakland Raiders 7 round mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 3 – Pick 66
Kaden Smith, TE, Stanford
In this mock draft scenario Oakand is sticking with Derek Carr. That means the 2019 draft needs to be about surrounding him with talent. The offensive line is solid, when healthy and should rebound after a tough year. However the weapons are simply not there. Grabbing N’Keal Harry in the firts round will help things as he should pair with Jordy Nelson and be an immediate starter. Oakland’s best weapon, tight end Jared Cook is a free agent. It is unsure at this time if they plan on bringing Cook back. He is coming off a career year and will look to get a fat deal.
If Oakland opts to replace Cook they can find value on Day 2 of this draft. This is a deep tight end class that has plenty of players that can contribute right away. With this pick they were able to grab Stanford’s Kaden Smith. The 6-foot-5, 255 pound junior missed the last few games of the Cardinal season with a foot injury but should be able to compete at the combine.
Smith brings an athletic profile that is ideal for today’s NFL. While he still needs to become a better route runner, the tools are there for him to be a productive contributor. He has a great frame and is able to high-point the ball winning over smaller defenders. Even if Cook stays in town, Smith is a great number two option for Oakland and can even be used as a large slot given his athleticism.
Round 4 – Pick 106
Andy Isabella, WR, UMass
Another pick to help out Carr and this offense. Last year, after Cook and Nelson, Oakland’s third receiver was a running back. Slot receiver Seth Roberts came in fourth but failed to crack even 500 yards. There is needs to be filled in the skill positions in Oakland.
Andy Isabella of UMass is name that will continue to rise as the draft process plays out. Isabella is a Senior Bowl invite from a small school that is ready to put on a show. At 5-foot-10 and 190 pounds, he has the look of a slot receiver. Luckily he has the game to match.
Isabella is a dynamic prospect who offers excellent route running and secure hands. Coming off back-to-back 1000 yard receiving seasons where he averaged over 15 yards per catch, Isabella is looking to be another in the long-line of undersized receivers who can win in the NFL. He will need to be schemed opened, as his frame and strength leave a lot to be desired. However if he does not get pressed at the line and gets a free release, he can make good things happen. The trio of passing weapons Oakland is able to bring in for this draft helps Carr tremendously. It also sets the stage for Gruden to move on from Carr and have dynamic pieces in place for the 2020 season.