West Virginia safety Karl Joseph doesn’t bring the glitz and glamour in comparison to previous first-round picks.
Many Raiders fans hoped to land UCLA linebacker Myles Jack or Clemson defensive end Shaq Lawson, as both prospects slipped past the top 10. General manager Reggie McKenzie obviously went with the favorable choice, which also fills a roster need.
Critics questioned McKenzie’s decision to select another ailing defensive back at the top of the draft, but Joseph’s skill set flashes exceptional ability as a versatile safety.
ACL repair king Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Joseph’s knee. Joseph also sought advice from Los Angles Rams running back Todd Gurley, per MetroNews and WVU Sports reporter Allan Taylor.
According to an interview at West Virginia’s pro day, Joseph hopes to join his new teammates during training camp.
Of course, cornerback D.J. Hayden’s injury history replays in frustrated Raiders fans’ minds, but it’s a less dire situation. Gurley suffered an ACL injury in November 2014 and took the field 10 months later in September. Joseph tore his ACL in October and seems optimistic about the rehab process.
As for the player on the field, Joseph exhibited man coverage ability and a strong follow-through on his tackles, and Fox Sports draft analyst Joel Klatt raved about his leadership skills. With good signs indicating a speedy recovery, the Raiders have solidified their secondary.
What’s next on the agenda? Is it a defensive lineman, linebacker or running back?
We’ll update the top-100 big board and walk through another mock draft for Rounds 2-7.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
