2010 NFL Draft: Oakland Raiders’ Report Card

No. 8 Overall: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama

Grade: A

McClain was far-and-away the premier inside linebacker in the class. He's brilliant against the run, which is a big reason why he was selected. McClain comes from the 3-4 defense in Alabama, but most experts agree he has the best football IQ in the draft. This kid will adjust fine.

His best attributes are his natural instincts. He has been provided with great leadership by the best defensive coach in college football in Nick Saban.

Walter Cheripinsky (Walter Football.com) does not agree that it was a good pick. He originally gave it a Millen grade. Walt said that the positional value was awful in an e-mail to me yesterday.

It may have been, but who honestly gives a damn if you're going to pick the same guy by moving a few spots back to get the same player anyway? 

 

No. 43 Overall: LaMarr Houston, DT/DE, Texas

Grade: A-

Houston has so much versatility he can bring to a football team.

When he first came to Texas, he played the end position. Then a couple years ago, he played as a DT. Houston will be brought in to start next to Tommy Kelly, but will provide depth on the line.

He's also better against the run than the pass.

 

No. 69 Overall: Edwin Veldheer, OT, Hillsdale

Grade: B

Veldheer is a raw tackle with a lot of potential. Look at his 6'8" frame.

I must have forgot to tivo all the Hillsdale games on ESPN primetime. I don't have tape of him, so I will rely on scouting reports with this pick.

From the scouting reports I've read, they say that he is perhaps a tad bit better in pass protection than run blocking.

Veldheer definitely has a learning curve because of the level of competition he played against in Division II to the NFL.

 

No. 106: Bruce Cam...

About the Author