The Las Vegas Raiders beat out the Chargers for a spot in the 2021 NFL Playoffs. However, with Khalil Mack now in LA and Russell Wilson joining the Broncos, the AFC West is more stacked than ever before. The 2022 NFL Draft has become much more important for the Raiders if they want to compete in the division. The Raiders have quite a few needs, which this 2022 7-Round NFL Mock Draft hopes to fill.
Las Vegas Raiders 2022 7-Round NFL Mock Draft
Using the free PFN Mock Draft Simulator with trades, equipped with the current 2022 NFL Draft order, let’s see who the Raiders should target with five picks.
After Davante Adams trade, Las Vegas is without a selection within the first two rounds. However, that’s still a steal for arguably the best receiver in the NFL. So, who do they select to retool the roster?
Round 3, Pick 86: Damone Clark, LB, LSU
One linebacker that seems to be falling under the radar in the media is LSU’s Damone Clark. He is physical in the middle and can plug holes against the run. While his instincts and play recognition can be inconsistent, he is stellar as an open-field tackler. Clark may be too raw to start from Day 1, but he could grow into a starting inside linebacker in time.
Round 4, Pick 126: Zyon McCollum, CB, Sam Houston State
Casey Hayward signed with the Falcons, Desmond Trufant is a free agent, and 2020 first-rounder Damon Arnette is no longer with the team. So, yea, corner is a position of need for the Raiders. Zyon McCollum put on an absolute show at the Combine, recording a 4.33 40-yard dash (third), 39.5-inch vertical (second), and 11’0″ broad (first), all of which were top-three marks at the position.
Mitchell was a ball hawk at FCS Sam Houston State, reeling 13 INTs in his career. It may take him some time to adjust to the NFL competition, but he has the toolbox to bank on.
Round 5, Pick 164: Max Mitchell, OL, Louisiana
As mentioned earlier, Las Vegas needs help along the offensive line. Max Mitchell didn’t test well at the Combine and weighed in undersized for the tackle position. Nevertheless, he displayed excellent technique and loves paving holes in the ground game as he does haunting opponents in pass protection. Mitchell may kick into guard, but the Raiders would be wise to try him at tackle first.
Round 5, Pick 165: Matt Henningsen, DT, Wisconsin
Three of the Raiders’ top four defensive tackles are hitting free agency, including both starters in Quinton Jefferson and Johnathan Hankins. Thus, they need some reinforcements in the trenches. Matt Henningsen can fill the B gaps and line up over tackle on occasion. He offers little as a pass rusher. Nonetheless, grabbing a run-stuffing DT who doesn’t miss tackles is excellent value in the fifth round.
Round 7, Pick 227: Decobie Durant, CB, South Carolina State
Decobie Durant may not last to the seventh round, thanks to his 4.38 40-yard dash at the Combine. He has the prototypical skill set and athleticism to play in the slot. Additionally, Durant offers special-teams versatility. He owns the confidence, hip fluidity, and straight-line speed to stick on a roster.