2010 NFL Draft: Kiper's Big Board Says Raiders Pass on McClain

ATLANTA - DECEMBER 5: Rolando McClain #25 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates after Alabama's 32-13 win against the Florida Gators during the SEC Championship game at Georgia Dome on December 5, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

While the coaching carousel in Oakland continues to spin out rumors and innuendo regarding the fate of Raiders' coach Tom Cable, draft guru Mel Kiper has released his first mock draft of the offseason.

Predictably, the college draft expert says the Raiders will play it safe this year and take Rutgers offensive tackle Anthony Davis.

Here’s Kiper’s analysis on the Scarlet Knight lineman:

“Davis might not be the most complete tackle in the first round, but he is the most naturally gifted and should get better. Great feet, ideal size, and he has the ability to maul defenders in the run game. After a whiff in the first round last year, the Raiders should address a big need here,” he said.

Disappointed in the pick, Raider Nation?

It certainly goes against the fan choice—Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain.

While Kiper believes the ‘Bama star will still be available when the Raiders pick at No. 8, he also predicts that Oakland will try to repair its broken offensive line instead of drafting the "stud" linebacker.

So, are the Raiders missing out on another star in the making, much like they did with Michael Crabtree?

Kiper predicts McClain will be a steal for the Dolphins, who will gladly take the All-American with the 12^th pick of the draft.

“A potential home run for Miami, which needs an inside linebacker and could get the best one in the whole draft after the top 10,” Kiper said.

A ringing endorsement to say the least—and if McClain were a Raider he would presumably help solve their horrendous run defense—or at least that’s the conventional thinking.

Rounding out the rest of the AFC West, Kiper is certain that the Broncos are targeting Oklahoma State receiver Dez Bryant—which will effectively end the career of Brandon Marshall in Denver.

The temperamental receiver is looking for a big contract and could resurface with former Broncos offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates in Seattle or possibly be reunited with Jay Cutler in Chicago.

In Kansas City, the Chiefs are looking at Oklahoma State offensive tackle Russell Okung, who would bring great value to a team looking to rebuild its offensive line.

However, if Tennessee safety Eric Berry is still on the board, the Chiefs won’t hesitate to take him over Okung.

And in San Diego, Norv Turner will need to find a replacement for LaDainian Tomlinson.

Kiper says Georgia Tech running back Jonathan Dwyer has the power and explosiveness to get the job done. If Dwyer can carry the ball 20 times a game, then San Diego may still have one more post-season run left.

With many more updates to come, here’s a look at Kiper’s first-round projections for 2010 (star indicates underclassmen).

1. St. Louis Rams

Record: 1-15
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

2. Detroit Lions

Record: 2-14
Gerald McCoy*, DT, Oklahoma

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Record: 3-13
Eric Berry*, S, Tennessee

4. Washington Redskins

Record: 4-12
Sam Bradford*, QB, Oklahoma

5. Kansas City Chiefs

Record: 4-12
Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

6. Seattle Seahawks