We are just a day away from the best seniors in the nation participating in the 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. The first practice begins on Tuesday with the game coming on Saturday afternoon.
One of the positions that appear to be the deepest at the all-star event is at wide receiver. While the Raiders don’t necessarily need a wide receiver high in the draft, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them draft one again in the middle rounds.
Today, we are taking a look at three prospects at the Senior Bowl the Raiders must pay attention to during the week of practice as they could be potential targets.
1. D’Wayne Eskridge, Western Michigan
During his college career, Eskridge averaged 23.3 yards per reception. If that isn’t an indication of the type of player he is, I don’t know what else to tell you. At 5’9, 190, Eskridge is incredibly undersized. But his overwhelming speed and quickness make him the ideal deep threat in the NFL.
If the Raiders wanted to add even more speed to their offense, Eskridge might be the premiere “deep threat” in the entire class. And if he can show at the Senior Bowl that he is improved as a route runner, he might end up being a top-50 selection.
2. Marquez Stevenson, Houston
Another burner at the receiver position, Stevenson had some huge games for Cougars over the last three years. He has better size than Eskridge (6’0, 190) and has the ability to create separation with ease. He’s a little reminiscent of Diontae Johnson, who the Steelers took in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Stevenson should dominate the 1 on 1s with his stop and start quickness and strong lower body. If the Raiders are wanting to add another explosive route runner to their wide receiver corps, Stevenson might be the ideal target anytime after the top-75 selections.
3. Shi Smith, South Carolina
Another possible late-round receiver, Smith was essentially the entire passing game at South Carolina. He accounted for 46.6 percent of the passing offense last season, with most of his work coming from the slot. He’s an incredibly tough player who can also play on the outside, if needed. He should have a strong week at the Senior Bowl practices as he’s one of the most physical (slot) receivers in the class.
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