Raiding The Rounds – Las Vegas Raiders 2023 Draft Profile

The Las Vegas Raiders didn’t have the year they set out to have after some major moves in the 2022 offseason. They now look to rebuild the team in the vision of head coach Josh McDaniels, and with four picks in the top 100, they have the capital to do it. With the release of Derek Carr and trade of Darren Waller, they will need to retool the offense through the draft.

Hendon Hooker, QB Tennessee

Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU

Vegas has to address the two holes that they dug during this offseason. One of those holes is quarterback and Hendon Hooker looks like a prime candidate to take over in this McDaniels’ offense. He has good vision and accuracy to go along with a beautiful deep ball. His pocket awareness is borderline elite and he has crisp footwork that will allow him to adapt to the pro game quicker than most. His injury will hold him out for at least this season, but a year to learn wont hurt him at all.

The next hole is tight end – Darren Waller left big shoes to fill but Georgia TE Darnell Washington will definitely bring it on Sundays. His large frame and solid hands make him a threat in the seams as well as the perimeter. He is a plus blocker in the run game as well and could help Josh Jacobs to another rushing title.

Outside of that the Raiders need to bolster the backend of the defense. The cornerback position is one of the deepest in the draft and the Raiders need depth that can contribute early. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson is a good man coverage corner with great ball skills. He translates to the slot at the pro level but can play outside if needed in a limited role. With the trend of the league, having too many corners is a good problem to have and the Raiders would take a step in that direction.

Vegas could use this draft to jump start their team and speed up what looks like a complete rebuild.