Expert Analysis
4/29/23
4 min read
Las Vegas Raiders NFL Draft Grades 2023: Tyree Wilson Leads Strong Haul
The 2023 NFL Draft is complete, and the Las Vegas Raiders made a total of nine picks.
The Raiders are in search of a bounce-back season under coach Josh McDaniels. The team is turning to Jimmy Garoppolo at quarterback and is bringing back the NFL's leading rusher, Josh Jacobs. However, they'll have to compete in one of the NFL's most competitive divisions — the AFC West.
How much did their class improve the roster? Let's dive in.
Las Vegas 2023 NFL Draft Grades
7. Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech
Tyree Wilson ends up being drafted right in the range that his talent merits. The Raiders didn't get the production they were hoping for from Chandler Jones when they signed him last offseason, but Wilson can hone his craft working with Jones and two-time Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby. Wilson has a 7'2" wingspan with some pop and explosion in his game. He's a bit of a late bloomer, but there are flashes of elite play littered throughout his tape.
Grade: A-
35. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
The Raiders pick one of the most talented tight ends in this draft in Michael Mayer. Mayer is an all-around tight end who will get movement in the run game and has some mismatch qualities as a pass catcher. He is a tough player for linebackers to defend at the sticks.
Grade: A
70. Byron Young, IDL, Alabama
Las Vegas adds some help in the middle of its defense with a stout run defender and fluid athlete. Byron Young is better moving up the field rather than laterally. He will have a tendency to overcommit but has strong hands and a good base. He plays with good balance and a high motor. He should be a nice interior player for the Raiders.
Grade: A-
100. Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati
Tre Tucker is a smaller-built receiver with good speed and quickness. He shows reliable hands with toughness over the middle of the field. He is dynamic with the ball in his hands, with over half his yards coming after the catch. Size remains a major concern. He needs to get stronger and is going to struggle in contested catch situations due to his size.
Grade: C-
104. Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland
Jakorian Bennett routinely took on the opposing team's best receiver at Maryland. He's instinctive with outstanding short-area quickness and top-end speed. He made a ton of plays on the ball over his career. It wouldn't have been a surprise if he went on Day 2.
Grade: B+
135. Aidan O'Connell, QB, Purdue
Aiden O'Connell lacks top-level arm strength, and he has inconsistent accuracy overall. He's an average athlete who has some lower body tightness and is not a threat to pull away in the open field.
Grade: D
170. Christopher Smith, SAF, Georgia
Christopher Smith is an undersized safety who offers scheme versatility with the ability to handle slot man coverage duties as well as cover deep zones with foot quickness and speed. His lack of size and play strength may limit his ability to be a top-end starter.
Grade: B-
203. Amari Burney, LB, Florida
Average size and athleticism. Good production especially this past season. Has a chance to compete for a role on special teams and as a backup LB.
Grade: C-
231. Nesta Jade Silvera, DT, Arizona State
Jade Silvera's a length-deficient defender who leans on quickness and active hands to work the edges of the offensive linemen. He'll add quality depth on the interior of the Raiders' defensive line.
Grade: B
