Oakland Raiders Draft Strategy: Let's Make a Deal

With the 2008 NFL draft around the corner, the Raiders find themselves in a familiar position of late with the fourth overall selection.

There are several options for Al Davis and Lane Kiffin as they move forward under the media microscope which has followed the Raiders since the 2003 Super Bowl loss to Tampa.

With a weak free agent market this year, expect the Raiders to possibly trade their 4th overall pick to Dallas for their 22nd and 28th picks. After spending 1st overall pick money on Jamarcus Russell last year, Al won't want to overpay another draft pick. This will allow them to attack the running back, wide reciever, and D-line positions within the first 36 picks, without paying the big money. 

Players who may still be around in these positions are Sweed, Jackson, and Doucet at wideout; Mendenhall, Jones, or Stewart at halfback;and Harvey, Merling, or Balmer on the D-line. Balmer would be best option at nose tackle but Kelly can be moved inside on a 4-3 scheme with Sands if drafting an end. The offensive line and strong saftey positions can be filled in later rounds and free agency. Maybe Adams from Dallas can be involved with the trade at left tackle.

Never mind the madness which has always existed in Oakland, the light can now be seen at the end of the tunnel. With a young defence gaining more experience under Ryan, a coach they love to play for, and a 6th-ranked rushing attack which came from the basement on the trails of Tom Cable's zone blocking O-line, the perfect storm may be brewing.

Al, pick up the phone and call Jerry Jones. Let's make a deal!

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