2017 Oakland Raiders Draft Recap: Rounds 2-3
It comes to no surprise that the Oakland Raiders used their first three draft picks on defensive players. They struggled on that side of the ball last year. Ranking near the bottom third in defense at passing and rushing yards allowed, as well as points per game against. Defense was the focus and the Raiders were able to address some of their struggles by drafting Gareon Conley, Obi Melifonwu, and Eddie Vanderdoes. Let us take a closer look at Melifonwu and Vanderdoes and their potential impact on the team this year and beyond.
AROUND COVER32
Around the NFL: Buffalo Bills clean house after draft; part ways with Doug Whaley and scouting staff
What’s Trending: Why 2017’s Mr. Irrelevant may not be so irrelevant this year
cover32 Exclusive: Check out this exclusive interview with new Chicago Bears’ WR, Tanner Gentry
This Week in NFL History: Taking a look back at some of football’s biggest moments from April 30th – May 6th
Obi Melifonwu, S, UConn
Referred to as a “Genetic Freak” by some, Melifonwu is a physical specimen at safety. After three productive years at UConn, he capped his career with a strong senior season. 2016 included an all conference selection and leading the UConn in tackles and ipicks. In addition to his strong game tape, Melifonwu’s athletic talents were on showcase at the 2017 Combine.
As a result, drafting Melifonwu in the second , which was moving into the first round conversation for some teams, could end up as a steal for the Raiders. Standing 6’4”, and weighing 224lbs, with a vertical of 44 inches and 40 time of 4.4, Melifonwu has the size, speed, and frame to star for the Raiders. I see Ken Norton Jr. using Melifonwu similar to Kam Chancellor in Seattle.
For example, covering the TE position, which the Raiders desperately need, and adding length to the safety position. If Melifonwu becomes the player Reggie McKenzie pictured on draft day, he will contribute this season and a starting spot next year.
Eddie Vanderdoes, DT, UCLA
Vanderdoes, a five star recruit out of California, had two solid years to begin his career at UCLA. Unfortunately, a torn ACL in 2015 ended that year. He returned for his senior year sluggish and a bit heavy.
Furthermore, the production for the Bruins dipped last season with only 30 tackles and 1.5 TFL. Vanderdoes trimmed down the weight, closer to 300 by season’s end and delivered a solid performance during the Senior Bowl.
This is the player the Raiders hope to get. If Vanderdoes keeps the motor up, he will complete right away for playing time with Justin Ellis as a 3-technique DT. Additionally, he could see time on 4-3 sets or a 6T on 3-4 formations. This could be another third round gem for McKenzie (Gabe Jackson, 2014) if Vanderdoes keeps the momentum going.
Twitter: @zaragozaanthony
The post 2017 Oakland Raiders Draft Recap: Rounds 2-3 appeared first on Cover32.
