Combine Week: Two Players for the Raiders to Observe
The NFL Combine is will take place in Indianapolis, February 28- March 6. General Manager Reggie McKenzie, Head Coach Jack Del Rio, and staff will scout for the intangibles that make up a true Raider football player.
What those intangibles are, scouts will know them when they see them. In words often said by the former Raider linebacker turned Raider executive, “We’re just looking for good football players.”
I believe McKenzie and Coach Del Rio will find those intangibles in Vanderbilt inside linebacker, Zach Cunningham, and Iowa safety Desmond King. Here’s why:
Zach Cunningham ILB, Vanderbilt: The projected late first rounder from Vandy improved in the stats column, from sack total to tackles, despite his teammates. Even more impressive was Cunningham’s senior season where he recorded 125 tackles, 16.5 for loss. While playing in the competitive SEC, Cunningham stood out. According to Rob Michels of Draftime.com, Cunningham has “great awareness on the field and ability to shed blockers to make plays”. Cunningham is solid in pass coverage, and should compete for a starting job as a rookie. The Raiders need versatile LB. I expect Reggie to pull the trigger should Cunningham becomes available at 24.
AROUND COVER32
2017 NFL Draft: Five first-round sleepers
Daily Dime:: No option for Peterson, Charles released, Brown gets paid and more…
cover32 Exclusive:: Interview with NFL prospect, St. Francis safety, Lorenzo Jerome.
Desmond King S, Iowa: The 2015 Jim Thorpe winner is just the kind of player Reggie is looking for. Draft ready in his junior year, King played one more year for the Hawkeyes and earned his degree. A four year starter and a consensus All-American, King tallied amazing numbers. During his freshman year, he recorded 69 tackles, 8 for a loss. In addition, he remained consistent in his play through his senior year, recording three interceptions and 7 deflected passes. King’s work ethic matches Karl Joseph’s drive. I can see the Raiders nabbing the safety in either the first or second round. In that case, McKenzie would construct Raiders starting safety duo for years to come.
Expect Reggie McKenzie and Coach Del Rio to use the same winning formula when evaluating talent at the combine. The pair will focus on immediate needs in starting and depth roles. Also, placing heavy focus on smart young men with great character. They will continue to look for players who are willing to put the work in to get better. These two players could be building blocks of the new Raiders. Khalil Mack cannot win alone.
The post Combine Week: Two Players for the Raiders to Observe appeared first on Cover32.
