Heading into the NFL Draft, there were multiple glaring holes on the Las Vegas Raiders roster. The Silver and Black beefed up their trenches by drafting four linemen. The team also believed that they needed playmakers on offense, so they added four more draft picks. The evidence indicates that the front office did not have confidence in these groups.
A higher draft pick increases the likelihood of becoming a starter. Or, at least, it creates expectations from fans and even the team.
Which Raiders should we monitor closely?
Tre Tucker, Wide Receiver
In 2023, Tucker’s ability to take the top off led to his draft selection. He stands at five feet nine inches and a meager 185 pounds. His main role in this offense has been to stretch the field with streaks and vertical routes. However, in the fourth round, Las Vegas drafted Dont’e Thornton, Jr., from the University of Tennessee.
Thornton Jr. is a similar player with a larger frame and faster speed. Comparatively, Tucker ran a 4.40 40-yard dash to Thornton Jr.’s 4.30. On top of that, the Tennessee alum towers over the current Raider at six feet five inches tall.
Following the pick of Thornton Jr., Sin City invested in a gadget player with Tommy Mellott. Tucker also participates in jet sweeps, but his responsibilities could potentially diminish. Mellott was named the best player in FCS football as an all-around playmaker. Although he has played mostly quarterback, the Raiders drafted him as a wide receiver. No. 11 on the Raiders will need to prove himself in this offseason.
Zamir White, Running Back
After an underwhelming 2024 campaign, Zamir White’s starting role moving forward was dubious at best. The Raiders signed veteran Raheem Mostert in free agency. He adds a passing down ability that White lacks. It was obvious that this new coaching staff was looking to revamp the position come draft day.
With the sixth pick in the draft, Las Vegas drafted Ashton Jeanty. The Boise State star commands a high workload because of his unique abilities. In 14 games, Jeanty averaged seven yards per carry on 374 attempts. No other running back on his team even attempted 30 carries.
It would be shocking if White had a consistent role in the run game. His status will be something worth monitoring.
Thayer Munford , Offensive Tackle
While rumors arose of Kolton Miller being unhappy, Munford began to raise attention because of his versatility. Miller has returned to the Raiders training camp and solidified the left tackle spot. Additionally, Las Vegas drafted Charles Grant and Caleb Rogers to be versatile linemen.
Munford received a 45.9 PFF grade in 2024. This number is far below average. He is also in the last year of his rookie contract. 2025 will be a crucial year for No. 77.
All of these players still can fight for their jobs. However, following this draft class, things are not looking promising.
