NFL Power Rankings: Post-NFL Draft Edition
By Jon Dove
3. Oakland Raiders
Key Additions: Jared Cook, Cordarrelle Patterson, Marshawn Lynch, Gareon Conley, Obi Melifonwu and Eddie Vanderdoes
Key Losses: Latavius Murray, Malcolm Smith, Menelik Watson
Oakland was in prime position to make a Super Bowl run until Derek Carr went down with an injury. They just didn’t have a capable enough back up to overcome that loss. It’s also important to note that Carr is the team’s most important player and not easily replaceable.
This roster was in good shape heading into the offseason which is reflected by the limited moves the Raiders made. Adding Marshawn Lynch is the splashiest move but also the riskiest. There’s just no telling how much he has left in the tank after a year off of football.
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It doesn’t help that they lack a backup plan if Lynch struggles to regain his former self.
Drafting Gareon Conley was a controversial move, but if he’s cleared of any wrong doing will be a major addition. He’s a great athlete who has shown the ability to make plays in the secondary. Conley could be the team’s best cornerback by the end of the season.
Jared Cook is a streaky player but has enough juice to give the Raiders another pass-catching threat. It’ll be up to Carr to keep him engaged.