In the last three years the Raiders have drafted quarterback Jamarcus Russell, running back Darren Mcfadden, and wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey all in the first round.
They all fit the style of players that the Raiders usually go for, and last year was probably the most surprising pick of all.
The Raiders were on the clock, and in need of a receiver or offensive lineman. The top three rated receivers were still available, and a couple solid offensive lineman were still on the board.
The Raiders shocked everyone, by taking Darrius Heyward-Bey, the speedy receiver from Maryland.
Davis and the Raiders take a lot of criticism for their early picks, but do not get enough credit for their picks after the first round.
Davis has discovered some jewels in the later rounds. Zach Miller, Michael Bush, Louis Murphy, and Chaz Schilens come to mind when I think about the later round draft picks for the offense.
The jury is still out on the Raiders first round picks, and this is a do or die year for Russell who was drafted in 2007.
Rebuilding an offense is no easy task and it takes time and patience for it to be completed, but it could take longer if not done correctly.
Davis has added a lot of pieces to the offense that have a lot potential and physical ability to make it in the next level. Unfortunatley for these players Davis has continued to ignore the most vital pieces to the puzzle.
He's ignored one of the team's biggest needs in the draft, and this has set the Raiders back. Since drafting Russell in 2007 the Raiders have only drafted one offensive lineman and that was in the third round in 2007.
He's tried adding offensive lineman through free agency, but p...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
