With the 2019 NFL Draft behind us, the most talked about Oakland Raider draft picks will be the three the team landed in the first round. Mike Mayock’s first draft as general manager will be determined by how Clelin Ferrell, Josh Jacobs and Johnathan Abrams pan out.
Even later round players such as fourth-rounder Foster Moreau will have an opportunity to shine in year one. If a player heard their name called, clearly the team has faith that one day they can be a difference maker.
What fans likely won’t hear much from are the team’s undrafted free agents. The Raiders signed 10 players after the draft and invited another 14 to rookie minicamp. These players may not have been drafted, but could still make a difference.
We saw last year with Phillip Lindsay just how vital an undrafted free agent can be. If the Raiders are able to land a difference maker, on top of their three first rounders, then this draft class could be a major success.
It’s unlikely that many of the UDFAs have a huge first year impact, but a few certain have a shot. As training camp nears, these players will be looking to prove that they deserve a spot on the 53-man roster.