Super talented but controversial draft prospect Robert Nkemdiche visited the Raiders on Tuesday. You may not think it means anything because neither Khalil Mack nor Amari Cooper visited but is certainly does. Both Cooper and Mack were extremely talented prospects that had no questions or red flags.
But Nkemdiche, who’s also tremendously talented, has off-the-field issues so he needs to be checked into more. Nkemdiche is a Top-5 talent who should be available when the Raiders select at No. 14 overall because of those issues. The incident where he fell out of a hotel room window and was charged with marijuana possession is the main one.
Admitting to taking plays off and being lazy at times didn’t help during his NFL Scouting Combine press conference. Naming fellow top draft prospect and Ole’ Miss teammate Laremy Tunsil as someone in the hotel-room when the incident happened wasn’t a good look either.
This visit gives the Raiders a chance to cut into him with an extended conversation to see what he’s all about. Asking a bunch of tough questions is part of it but to be alone with him and look into his eyes gives you a better idea about a player. I have Nkemdiche mocked to the Raiders so I believe this visit could very well determine if they pick him.
Raiders fans should hope that he gave GM Reggie McKenzie a good feeling during his visit then keeps his nose clean when he’s picked. The Raiders are about start a run of going to the playoffs so barring a trade, this is the last chance they’ll have to pick someone with Nkemdiche’s talent.
I hope the visit went well!