Analysts and fans will agree that a significant trade down is the best-case scenario for the silver and black. At this point, they have very few selections at their disposal to fill what is quite a large number of glaring holes.
Whether the Raiders’ first pick comes in their current slot at third overall or later on the round, it is essential for them to find a player who can make an immediate impact in a position of need.
As such, here are the top four candidates for the Raiders’ selection in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft.
DT Star Lotulelei (Utah)
The Raiders have signed several free-agent defensive tackles thus far, but the position could still stand to be upgraded.
Before his health scare at the NFL Scouting Combine, which has since been cleared, Star Lotulelei was the most talked about interior defensive lineman in this draft class and may just be the best fit for the Raiders at third overall.
Physically, at 6’2”, 311 pounds, Star can do it all. His combination of size, strength and quickness allows him to get off the line as fast as anyone else, winning battles at the point of attack more often than not. He can be an anchor in the running game, and depending on how teams choose to use him, he has the pass-rushing skills to get to the quarterback as well.
That very physical ability gives Lotulelei the versatility to play either of the interior line positions in a base 4-3 front and virtually any of the down lineman positions in 3-4 looks as well. This scheme and positional flexibility is no doubt something that would stand out for Raiders head coach Dennis Allen and benefit the multiple defensive looks that he wishes...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
