Oakland Raiders draft needs: 5 small schools who will help turn the Raiders into contenders

Jon Gruden has tons of draft picks, but he needs to find some players throughout the draft that can help his team get over the hump. With Derek Carr a big-time player to build around, we feel if they can add some solid defensive help and a couple of playmakers they can become contenders. Their team needs are a pass rusher, cornerback, wide receiver, safety and running back.

Kaden Elliss, OLB, Idaho – Elliss is a team leader who led the team with 16 tackles for loss and career-high seven sacks for Idaho. The 6030, 240 pound linebacker would be a huge piece for Jon Gruden and the Raiders. He is currently a priority free agent and I like his pass rush skills off the edge.

Jamarkese Williams, CB, Incarnate Word – The 6030 corner has SPEED, he is a track and field guy, and we all know the Raiders love speed guys. Al Davis is not alive but his legacy is still alive. Williams is a sleeper in the draft, and I feel he is a likely a priority free agent at this point.

Bobby Hartzog, WR, Texas Southern – No one is talking about him but the former D1 transfer is is a big wideout with a big frame. Hartzog tore up the HBCU and he is getting noticed by NFL scouts. He too is likely a PFA, but he has the Amari Cooper size and body type.

Cua’ Rose, S, Arkansas Tech – Cua’ Rose is a PBU machine and the Raiders could use a player like him. He is not the fastest player in the world, but he is a true ball hawk. I like this kids abilities on the field, and feel the Raiders could snag him as a free agent.

Marquell Cartwright, RB, North Carolina A&T – I love this kid and I feel that he is similar to Marshawn Lynch. I am not sure that Lynch will be back, even though the Raiders will remain in Oakland. Cartwright is going to be a priority free agent, and I feel he is going to be a stud.