Mackensie Alexander Should Be Oakland Raiders' No. 1 Draft Target Following 2016 NFL Combine

By Brendan Patel

The Oakland Raiders were one of the most surprising teams in the league last season, and they should be competing for a playoff spot next year. They have an exciting young core, with playmakers on both sides of the ball. Their young quarterback proved last year that he has the potential to be a star in the league, and now the organization must surround him with talent. The team has a lot of money to spend in free agency, and can focus on finding elite players to fill out their roster.

The Raiders could use an upgrade on their offensive line and in their secondary. There are several intriguing prospects in free agency that they will likely go after, but it would not hurt to add some young talent via the draft as well. One position of need is cornerback, and there should be some good ones available when the Raiders select in the first round. Mackensie Alexander is one player that the team needs to keep an eye on, as he has as much potential as any defensive back in the draft.

Alexander’s numbers did not stand out in college, but that was due to the fact that quarterbacks were often afraid to throw to his side of the field. He is quick and can stick with receivers one on one, a luxury for defensive coordinators. He has great technique, and is very good at anticipating what his opponents are going to. Alexander is also an extremely confident player, something that is very important in playing such a difficult position. He will not back down from anyone, and can get into the head of his opponents.

The Raiders could choose to spend their pick on an offensive lineman or another defender, but drafting a a cornerback would fill a huge need. Alexander is certainly not a safe pick, but he offers a lot of potential and could develop into an elite cornerback if he puts in the work. He has all the tools necessary to succeed, and can help this team get back into the playoffs.

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