We are just 25 days away from the 2021 NFL draft and it’s becoming clear what the Raiders will likely do with their first selection. While the team needs defensive help, especially in the secondary, the talent level just doesn’t match up well with the value of No. 17.
The same can’t be said about the offensive linemen in the first round, as there are a number of players worth a top-20 selection. And with the Raiders having such a big need at right tackle too, it appears they could be in the perfect spot to grab a quality offensive lineman.
One player that could intrigue the Raiders is USC’s Alijah Vera-Tucker, who has experience at both guard and tackle. In a recent mock draft by Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports, that is who he gave the Raiders in the first round. Here are his thoughts on the potential pairing:
“The Raiders could use a tackle on the right side after trading away Trent Brown. This isn’t normally Vegas’ way of thinking, but it’s hard to pass up Vera-Tucker if he falls to the middle of the first round. Carr has protection on both sides of the line.”
Vera-Tucker played on the left side of the offensive line during his college career, but a transition over the right side shouldn’t be all that difficult. He has some of the best feet from an offensive tackle you will see and also can dominate in the run game. He’s also just 20-years old with his best football still ahead of him.
According to Pro Football Focus, Vera-Tucker allowed just two quarterback hits in all of 2020 despite it being his first year at offensive tackle for USC. Over the last three years, he allowed a combined three quarterback hits and eight hurries for the Trojans.
If the Raiders do decide to address their offensive line need in the first round, Vera-Tucker might be the most realistic and ideal pick for the team at No. 17. With just three weeks to go until the draft, consider Vera-Tucker at the top of the team’s wishlist late this month.
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