2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

The Oakland Raiders have multiple flaws to address, but nothing is more significant at this stage than the poor play at cornerback. That’s made even more true when one considers that T.J. Carrie, Oakland’s best corner in 2017, is a free agent.

Even if Carrie were to re-sign, the Raiders need to improve the depth and quality of play in the secondary—and this pick would enable it them to do so.

Joshua Jackson is the best ball hawk in this draft class, which is truly the foundation of his draft stock. He has the size and strength to excel in bump and run coverage, but what makes Jackson special is his nose for the ball.

I’m not one to value statistics at such an extreme level, but Jackson finished the 2017 season with eight interceptions and 18 passes defended—insane numbers.

For Oakland, adding a playmaking cornerback could be the next step in the right direction. Khalil Mack can apply consistent pressure to opposing quarterbacks, but the threat of a turnover could strike a new level of fear in opposing quarterbacks.

Jackson needs to become a better tackler, but for an Oakland defense that ranked dead last with just five interceptions in 2017, his nose for the ball is an appealing strength.