2021 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Miami Dolphins trade back again
By Dakota Cox
2021 NFL Mock Draft 3.0
17. Las Vegas Raiders: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State
How did someone as talented as Micah Parsons fall to the Raiders? He is one of the best defensive players in the 2021 NFL Draft class. His speed at linebacker is crucial, and some see him as the versatile piece that could change a franchise on defense.
However, teams will prioritize weapons and quarterbacks. Once the run on corners happened, Parsons continued to slide down the board. That being said, this would be a great value for the Las Vegas Raiders.
Gruden likes high-character players from top schools. He has drafted many Alabama football, Clemson and Ohio State players in the past. Parsons also solves Vegas’s issue with the middle of the defense. They need speed that can rush the passer and also cover from sideline to sideline.
The AFC West has one amazing team and three teams trying to catch up. In order to keep up with the Kansas City Chiefs, you need speed on defense. I could see the Raiders trading up for Parsons if he slips, but he thankfully fell into their lap with this pick.
With a key tool on defense, the Raiders can now focus on rebuilding the offensive line on the second day of the draft. While they will consider players here, the value is simply too much to give up.