Oakland Raiders’ 2013 Draft Class On the Edge

Sep 23, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) makes a reception while being defended by Oakland Raiders cornerback DJ Hayden (25) and Oakland Raiders free safety Charles Woodson (24) in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

First-round pick D.J. Hayden looked like he could be a special corner coming out of Houston. But a freak injury that lead to heart surgery his senior year set him back a ways for his rookie season. He missed all of the offseason and playing corner is hard enough with a full offseason as rookie so it’s no surprise he struggled.

In year two, Hayden was put behind the eight-ball again as this time, he sustained stress fracture his foot. He missed the ever-so valuable offseason and training camp work and could get on the field until mid-season in 2014. He showed some flashes but was beaten for six touchdowns so it’s another bad year without a full complement of preparation.

This is year three, where the NFL will judge Hayden as a first-round boom or bust. But for the first time in his career, he was healthy enough to work on his craft for the entire offseason program. It has been reported that he looks good but now, 2014 fourth-round pick Keith McGill is challenging him for his starting spot.

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