The Raiders have made notable changes this offseason, starting with the appointment of Clint Kubiak as head coach and the acquisition of Ravens All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum through free agency.
They also bolstered their defense by bringing in linebackers Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, alongside edge rusher Kwity Paye.
On draft night, the team is anticipated to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who they hope will be the franchise quarterback they’ve been seeking for a long time.
Yet, this is just the beginning, as the organization recognizes that significant change will take time.
As the draft approaches, here are three key needs the team must address.
X wide receiver
It’s clear that the Raiders’ passing game largely revolves around star tight end Brock Bowers, their standout receiver.
However, there’s a noticeable gap beside him when it comes to finding a reliable running mate, particularly at the X receiver position. The team currently lacks a strong physical presence and vertical threat on the outside.
While they did well to acquire Vikings receiver Jalen Naylor, his strengths lie outside the box, and at 5-foot-11, he’s not the typical X receiver. Jack Beck, now in his second season, has developed more as a slot receiver, while fellow second-year player Donte Thornton—standing at 6-5—has the potential but is still adapting to the NFL.
Veteran Tre Tucker managed 57 catches for 596 yards, but being just 5-8 makes him a versatile option rather than a go-to receiver. With few viable choices in free agency, the Raiders are likely to look to the draft for support.
The No. 36 pick could also see them targeting Washington’s Denzel Boston, who, at 6-4 and 212 pounds, fits their needs well. His 11 touchdown receptions demonstrate his effectiveness in crucial situations, and he has the skills to stretch defenses.
If it weren’t for a season-ending ACL injury, Louisville’s Chris Bell could have been a first-round candidate but may slip to the third round due to his status. Notre Dame’s Malachi Fields is another name to consider.
Defensive tackle
As the Raiders transition to a primarily 3-4 defense, there’s a pressing need for a traditional nose tackle capable of handling double teams and generating an interior pass rush.
Most of their current defensive tackles are more suited for a 4-3 setup, with only second-year lineman JJ Peggs and veteran Brodrick Martin meeting the physical criteria of a nose tackle.
It remains unclear how committed the Raiders will be to this 3-4 front, but if that’s their goal, they need a strong anchor in the middle.
The team has actively scouted defensive tackles during the draft process, showcasing their determination to find immediate impact players.
On Day 2 of the draft, with needs at both wide receiver and defensive tackle, the Raiders may have to weigh their options carefully. If they choose a defensive lineman in the second round, Ohio State’s Caden McDonald could be a solid pick, along with Georgia’s Kristen Miller. In the third round, Iowa State’s Domonique Orange may also be a compelling option.
Offensive tackle
The Raiders made strides in bolstering their offensive line by signing Linderbaum and bringing in Spencer Burford, a promising depth player.
However, they didn’t address the tackle position, which comes as a surprise given the instability faced by the offensive line last season.
Behind the scenes, there’s optimism surrounding young talents DJ Glaze and Charles Grant, both third-round picks. There’s also hope for Kolton Miller’s return; he was limited to just four games last year due to an injury.
Grant and Glaze will be vying for the starting right tackle position, but it wouldn’t be shocking to see the team draft another tackle if a high-caliber prospect is available at their second-round pick.
Alabama’s Kaedin Proctor would be tough to overlook if he’s still on the board. Clemson’s Blake Miller could also fit their needs, as could Northwestern’s Caleb Tiernan or Arizona State’s Max Iheanakoor if they fall to the third round. Another possibility could be Boise State’s Cage Casey.
