4 biggest reaches in the first round of the NFL Draft

OT Alex Leatherwood, Raiders

Much like the Kadarius Toney pick for the Giants, I was a little surprised the Raiders were willing to take Alex Leatherwood quite so early. It’s not that I don’t like the player; I think that Leatherwood could be a solid starter at right tackle or guard. However, I think they took him about 20 picks too early.

Offensive tackles are one of the most coveted positions in the league – and for good reason. It’s hard to have a successful offense without good players who can protect your quarterback. While Leatherwood can be a mauling run blocker at times, his feet are very inconsistent in pass protection – even scary at times. During Senior Bowl week, Leatherwood was routinely beaten off the edge when lined up at right tackle.

Though he will likely be a right tackle for Las Vegas, I don’t love the value of taking him with the 17th overall pick – especially considering that Teven Jenkins was selected at pick 39 and Liam Eichenberg lasted until pick 42. Leatherwood has the size, length, and athletic profile to prove his worth, but this pick seemed like a reach to me in the first round. Then again, that’s nothing new under the Jon Gruden regime with the Raiders.