Reggie McKenzie and the Oakland Raiders had a certain strategy in mind in lieu of the 2017 NFL Draft. After securing Marshawn Lynch, the Raiders were able to focus on defensive players during the draft. However, McKenzie was also anticipating the action following the draft, with many potential impact players left in the undrafted market.
The Raiders general manager stated his excitement about the post-draft acquisitions in early April, alluding to surprise undrafted contributors like Jalen Richard. The Raiders were active off the bat, signing 17 undrafted players for at least a try out.
With some hard work and determination, these undrafted players can excel and earn a contract, as was the case on Monday. The Raiders signed undrafted safety Marcus McWilson to a contract. McWilson was given a temporary try out during the team’s rookie mini camp, which went on from May 5-7.
McWilson spent all four of his collegiate seasons at the University of Kentucky. During his senior campaign, he totaled 69 tackles (30 solo), 4.5 tackles for loss and a 45-yard pick-six. In all four seasons at Kentucky, he accumulated 173 tackles (81 solo), along with eight tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, four interceptions, four passes defended and a fumble recovery.
The 6’0″, 210 lbs. safety has a chance to compete amongst the defensive backs. The Ohio native ranks third at the free safety position, behind Pro-Bowler Reggie Nelson and 2017 second-round pick Obi Melinfonwu.
