It sounds like the Raiders dropped a big hint about their NFL Draft plans

If you’re inclined to take Raiders General Manager Mike Mayock at his word, it’s pretty clear Las Vegas will spend their first round pick on a wide receiver.

Believing everything an NFL General Manager says just over a week away from the NFL Draft is a questionable choice. However, if you believe Mike Mayock is telling the truth, the Raiders are going to spend their first round pick on a dynamic wide receiver.

The former NFL Network executive recently admitted to reporters that it’s “no secret” that Las Vegas needs to upgrade their options at wide receiver. The Raiders currently own both the No. 12 and No. 19 overall selections in the first round. It’s highly likely they’ll pull the trigger on a wideout in one of those spots.

At No. 12, it’s very possible the Raiders could get the chance to select the top rated wide receiver on their board. The Jets could rob them of that opportunity by taking a pass catcher one spot ahead of them at No. 11, but it would still leave Las Vegas with quality options at the position.

Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb and Henry Ruggs III are widely considered to be the top three receivers in this year’s draft class. Most teams have Jeudy and Lamb slightly ahead of Ruggs. The Raiders are one franchise that could easily select any member of the talented trio.

Jeudy would bring head coach Jon Gruden a polished No. 1 wide receiver capable of running any route in the playbook. He creates space by running every route with elite precision. He’s an above average athlete, but it’s his skill that makes him an elite prospect.

Lamb is arguably the most talented wideout of the group. He’s got the size and ability to make big plays after the catch that are coveted by NFL teams. The former Oklahoma star would greatly increase the margin for error for either Derek Carr or Marcus Mariota next season. His skills aren’t as refined as Jeudy’s, but his raw talent makes it easy to project him as an All-Pro after a few seasons of refinement in the NFL.

Ruggs is the wild card of the group. He isn’t a perfect fit for every team because of his lack of size. The Raiders, however, already have a big wideout in the form of Tyrell Williams. That means they could be the franchise to gamble on Ruggs’ elite speed. Lining he and Williams up on the opposite side of the formation would give Las Vegas a pair of wideouts capable of taking the top off the opposing defense.

Despite Mayock’s admission that his team needs to improve at the wide receiver position, it’s still very possible they don’t spend either of their first round picks to address the need. This class is exceptionally deep at wide receiver. Don’t rule out the idea that Mayock is putting out a smokescreen to throw his competitors off the team’s true intentions.