Raiders Video: 2020 Draft Class Reacts To Receiving News from Jon Gruden
NFL/Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports

Despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sweeping the nation, the NFL was able to hold the 2020 NFL Draft virtually and it was a success as there were minimal hiccups broadcasting the event and letting teams pick their players.

The Las Vegas Raiders were a team of major intrigue as they had several selections within the top 100 and had clear needs on both sides of the ball. With two picks in the first round, the Raiders took Henry Ruggs III and Damon Arnette.

With a trio of picks in Round 3, Las Vegas added Lynn Bowden and Bryan Edwards to an increasingly potent offense and fortified the defense with Tanner Muse. With their final two picks, they selected offensive lineman John Simpson and cornerback Amik Robertson.

Being drafted is one of the most joyous days of an athlete’s life and the Raiders released a video of Jon Gruden changing the lives of their newest additions by giving them the call they were waiting for:

Ruggs is a game-changing field stretcher who also possesses sure hands and quickness that will force opposing defenses to key in on him, while Bowden and Edwards add versatility for the offense. Meanwhile, Arnette, Muse and Robertson should all give a boost to a defense that largely struggled with defending pass plays during the 2019 NFL season, while Simpson provides some offensive line depth.

Addressing needs at wideout and in the secondary has to leave Raiders fans feeling better about their roster ahead of the 2020 NFL season. Las Vegas showed promise at times last season and the added help should make them more competitive in the AFC West.

While the start of next season is up in the air due to the virus situation, the draft was still a pivotal moment for the franchise ahead of their move to Nevada. Each player was excited to be drafted by the Silver and Black and hopefully they are able to make their on-field debuts sooner rather than later.