The Las Vegas Raiders faced disappointment in the 2022 season as they missed the playoffs and decided to bench their quarterback, Derek Carr, before the season’s end. In their search for a new starting quarterback, they turned to Jimmy Garoppolo, who underwent foot surgery earlier this year. With hopes of a better season and US betting apps having them a Super Bowl longshot, the Raiders focused on strengthening their roster through the 2023 NFL Draft, where they had nine picks, including four in the third and fourth rounds.
With their first pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Raiders selected Tyree Wilson seventh overall. A talented defensive end, Wilson was highly sought after and received offers from prominent programs such as Arkansas, Washington State, Baylor, Florida, and others. Ultimately, he committed to Texas Tech and had an impressive performance in the 2022 season, recording 61 tackles, 14 for loss, seven sacks, and a forced fumble.
Continuing to address their team needs, the Raiders chose Michael Mayer, a tight end from Notre Dame, in the second round as the 35th overall pick. Mayer had an impressive college career, accumulating 2,099 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns as an Associated Press third-team All-American.
In the third round, the Raiders added Byron Young, a former Alabama defensive tackle, with the 70th overall pick. Young showcased his skills and experience in his 54 college games, accumulating 139 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble. As a consistent starter for the Crimson Tide in the 2022 season, Young brings valuable experience to the Raiders’ defensive line.
With their second pick in the third round, the Raiders selected Tre Tucker, a wide receiver from the University of Cincinnati, as the 100th overall pick. During his college career, Tucker displayed his playmaking abilities, recording 112 catches for 1,433 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. The Raiders hope that Tucker’s skills will contribute to their offensive success.
In the fourth round, the Raiders drafted Jakorian Bennett, a cornerback from the University of Maryland. Bennett’s standout performances earned him the MVP title at Duke’s Mayo Bowl in 2022, and he was invited to the Reese’s Senior Bowl in 2023. With 69 combined tackles in his college career, Bennett brings solid defensive skills to the Raiders’ secondary.
Aidan O’Connell, a wide receiver from Purdue University, was the Raiders’ second pick in the fourth round. O’Connell, who began his college career as a walk-on, now leaves Purdue as the program’s all-time leader in completion percentage and passing efficiency. The Raiders traded a fifth and sixth-round pick to secure O’Connell as the 135th overall pick. With his impressive college accomplishments, O’Connell has the potential to make an impact in the NFL in the coming years.
Christopher Smith II, a former four-star cornerback from the University of Georgia, was chosen by the Raiders as the 170th overall pick in the fifth round. Smith’s consistent performances earned him the Associated Press All-American First Team honors and contributed to the Georgia Bulldogs’ success as reigning national champions. With 133 combined tackles in 58 college games, Smith brings a solid defensive presence to the Raiders.
In the sixth round, the Raiders selected Amari Burney, a four-star recruit and linebacker from the University of Florida. Burney’s academic dedication earned him four selections to the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll during college. On the field, Burney showcased his skills with 223 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, seven sacks, four interceptions, and 16 pass deflections in 58 games.
Nesta Jade Silvera, a 6ft 2in, 315lb defensive lineman from Arizona State University, was the Raiders’ final pick in the seventh round as the 231st overall pick. Silvera appeared in all 12 games for Arizona State in the 2022 season, starting in 10. He finished the season with 55 tackles, adding depth and size to the Raiders’ defensive line.
With their nine picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders focused on improving their roster both offensively and defensively. The addition of talented players like Tyree Wilson, Michael Mayer, and Byron Young strengthens their defense. At the same time, the selections of Tre Tucker, Jakorian Bennett, and Aidan O’Connell provide options for their offense. The Raiders aim to build consistency and continue their pursuit of success as they prepare for the upcoming season.
