Oakland Raiders Two-Deep Depth Chart

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Jun 15, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive lineman Jihad Ward (95) at minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Right Defensive End: Jihad Ward, Danico Autry

Mckenzie was criticsized for picking defensive end Jihad Ward in the second round of the draft in May. But they called Howie Long “a waste of a pick” and he is now in the Hall of Fame. I’m not saying that will be his destiny but it is proof the the experts aren’t always right.

At 6’5” and nearly 300 pounds, Ward has the size, power, and athleticism of a great 3-4 end. He also has a great motor that the organization loves. We haven’t seen him in pads yet but he has consistently burst through the offensive line with ease and got to the quarterback in OTAs.

From watching him at Illinois, I could see his motor and the athleticism he has. His lack of production came mostly from being used as a 4-3 end, a position he’s not the best fit for. He also doesn’t have the most experience at he position, having been a receiver in college too.

Denico Autry will be the guy that comes in for him in the rotation and replace him if he gets hurt. Autry showed me a little someting and made some plays for the Raiders in 2015. If he comes out the way he did at the end of last season, it might not be so easy for Ward to start.

Next: Mario Edwards Jr.

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