Anthony Morris to the Oakland Raiders: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie made a questionable call with the fourth-round pick by selecting Jon Feliciano in a comical stretch for a guard, who was likely a seventh-round prospect or an undrafted free agent, per CBS Sports and NFL.com.

The Raiders partially made up for the miscue with the seventh-round pick, selecting Anthony Morris out of Tennessee State. Most analysts didn’t have the Tennessee State product on their draft boards, but he’s a solid pick from a non-powerhouse school. He’s listed as a tackle but has the ability to move across the offensive line. 

At 6’7”, 303 pounds, Morris was solid blocking outside as well as inside. As you’ll notice on film, he’s able to lead the blocks on the outside and cross over the guard in run-blocking schemes inside.

Right guard Khalif Barnes has likely escaped this draft with his starting position intact, which is a disappointment considering the Raiders needed one more piece for above-average line protection. It’s possible the overall play of the offensive line could mask the veteran’s shortcomings. In 2014, his run blocking was rated minus-7.5 and his pass blocking was minus-2.5, per Pro Football Focus. 

McKenzie's failure to draft a guard ready to start immediately gives hope for prospects like Morris to make an impact. He hasn’t played against top-tier NCAA talent at Tennessee State, but Ali Marpet from Hobart College was coveted as a Division III player. Morris has the motor, athleticism and strength to fill the position if the push starts in training camp.

Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images

Of course, it’ll be offensive line coach Mike Tice’s call as to who will be the starting guard Week 1, but Morris should be given some consideration. Personally, I think he can fit the position better than Feliciano. Morris has cleaner hand techniques and footwork. He was able to play inside because he can match the strength of opposing defensive tackles and uses his quickness to establish base positioning.

Finally, Morris has a strong drive with his legs. He’s a taller lineman, but his leg strength is uncanny. He literally drives forward and buries defenders.

That right guard position will be a position competition to watch at camp. Though Morris may not be included in the competition, he will likely solidify himself as the best reserve offensive lineman.

Brian Bahr/Getty Images

Donald Penn’s contract expires at the end of the year, per Spotrac. However, if he has a repeat performance that mirrors the 2014 season, he deserves an extension offer. If he isn’t retained, it should open another door for Morris at left tackle.

It’s important the Raiders keep their core linemen together. Quarterback Derek Carr was sacked 24 times in 2014. If the Raiders want to keep him off the ground, the offensive line needs some continuity. It’s also important Tice and the coaching staff address the void that remains at the right guard position quickly.

It’s plausible to believe Morris will make the team, but versatility was a major theme in this year’s draft for Oakland. It won’t be surprising to see Morris used as a utility lineman able to plug holes where necessary.