John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
The Oakland Raiders are entering a very important event this evening when the 2015 NFL Draft opens, and they are in major need of some help for second-year quarterback Derek Carr. He showed the potential to become a legitimate franchise quarterback during his rookie season last year, but Oakland doesn’t have a No. 1 target for him yet. That could change tonight with the player that they select at No. 4 overall.
Amari Cooper is likely going to be available unless the Jacksonville Jaguars decide to take him No. 3 overall, which doesn’t seem all that likely. If he is still available when the Raiders are on the clock, they need to pick him.
During his junior season, Cooper ended up catching 124 passes for 1,727 yards and 16 touchdowns. He shredded defenses each and every week and put up three games with 200 or more yards. Those numbers speak for themselves, and the Raiders would see their offense take a huge step forward by selecting him.
Kevin White is another name that comes to mind when thinking about a wide receiver as early as the fourth pick, but Cooper has been the front-runner to be the first receiver selected most of the offseason. Either receiver would be a huge upgrade for Oakland, but the Raiders will likely end up going with Cooper barring a change of mind.
At 6-foot-1 with the speed and athleticism that he possesses, Cooper is going to be a force to be reckoned with at the next level. Cooper has received some comparisons to former Indianapolis Colts star wide receiver Marvin Harrison, who was a major deep threat while also being able to make plays over the middle and in the screen game. He can make people miss in the open field and can beat coverage downfield with ease.
Carr ended up throwing for 3,270 yards, 21 touchdowns and just 12 interceptions during his rookie season. He didn’t have a ton to work with at the wide receiver position, but James Jones had a solid season for Oakland. Michael Crabtree was signed earlier this offseason, but they still need a legitimate No. 1 target.
Cooper has the potential to become an NFL superstar, and the Raiders cannot afford to pass on him. He has the dynamic playmaking ability and work ethic to continue improving over the next few years. If the Raiders truly want to give their young quarterback the best chance to succeed, then Cooper will be their first-round pick.
