⚡ Backup Speed Back: Insurance With Explosiveness
The Raiders’ run game had teeth, but in today’s NFL, durability and speed are currency. The front office wanted a change-of-pace burner—a back who could hit the edge in a blink, punish linebackers in space, and step in without the offense losing rhythm.
This wasn’t about replacing the starter.
This was about survival in December and having a weapon who could flip field position with one crease and a burst.
🛡️ Safety: Preparing for Life After Jeremy Chinn
Jeremy Chinn had been the enforcer—range, power, instincts. But the clock never stops in the league, and the Raiders were planning ahead.
They needed a safety who could grow into the role, not just fill it. Someone versatile enough to play in the box, cover tight ends, and patrol the deep middle when needed. A cerebral defender with violence in his game and leadership in his DNA.
The goal wasn’t immediate replacement—it was succession.
🔥 Edge Rusher: The Predator Across From Maxx Crosby
Every offensive line already tilted protection toward Maxx Crosby. That wouldn’t change.
What would change was what happened on the other side.
The Raiders wanted a young edge who thrived in chaos—someone with first-step quickness, relentless motor, and the hunger to hunt quarterbacks one-on-one. Pairing that with Crosby would turn pressures into sacks and sacks into turnovers.
Two edge threats don’t just rush the passer.
They break game plans.
🧠 Mike Linebacker: Commanding the Middle
At the heart of the defense sat the biggest need—a true field general.
The Raiders needed a Mike linebacker who could diagnose plays before the snap, flow sideline to sideline, and deliver punishment between the tackles. Someone who could drop into coverage, spy mobile quarterbacks, and rally the defense when momentum wavered.
This wasn’t about flash.
This was about control.
🎯 Wide Receiver: A Partner for D’onte Thornton Jr.
D’onte Thornton Jr. had become a problem for defenses—speed, route precision, and confidence that demanded attention.
Now the Raiders wanted a running mate.
A wideout who could win outside, beat press coverage, and punish single coverage when Thornton drew doubles. Whether it was a big-bodied possession receiver or another vertical threat, the idea was simple: make defenses choose wrong every snap.
Because when one receiver shines, a great partner makes the entire offense unstoppable.
🏴☠️ Draft Night Philosophy
This draft wasn’t about headlines.
It was about balance, depth, and domination.
The Raiders were building a roster that could survive injuries, dictate matchups, and impose their will on both sides of the ball. Every pick had purpose. Every need had a vision.
And when draft night arrived, the league would realize something dangerous:
The Raiders weren’t chasing the future.
They were preparing to take it. ☠️⚔️
