As we gear up for the big event in April, the Las Vegas Raiders are in the midst of a whirlwind of meetings and interviews. One of the key steps in this journey is the annual NFL scouting combine, where under-the-radar talents have a chance to shine. Here are ten players the Raiders should keep an eye on as they look to bolster their roster.
Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska
While running back might not be the top priority, Emmett Johnson could be an intriguing option for the Raiders. If Klint Kubiak wants to emulate his successful Seattle model, pairing someone with Ashton Jeanty could be key.
Johnson is the only Cornhusker to have achieved 100 yards both receiving and rushing in a single game, earning him the Big Ten running back of the year award. With over 1,800 total yards last season and leading the nation in missed tackles, Johnson is a player any team would want.
Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State
Trey Lance's younger brother, Bryce, has made a name for himself with some spectacular catches at North Dakota State. Despite being 25 at the start of his rookie year, his production is undeniable. With 25 touchdowns and over 2,000 receiving yards in his last two seasons, Lance has shown he can deliver, even if he's been helped by strong quarterback play.
Eric McAlister, WR, TCU
Eric McAlister comes with some off-the-field baggage, but his on-field performance is hard to ignore. Averaging over 18 yards per catch and boasting zero drops in his final season, McAlister is a top contender in yards after catch. His ability to convert routes into first downs makes him an exciting prospect, despite potential draft-day slides.
Markel Bell, OT, Miami (FL)
Standing at a towering 6-foot-9, Markel Bell has been a standout during Miami's championship run. He didn't allow a single sack against powerhouse defenses like Florida, Texas A&M, and Ohio State. While he might benefit from learning behind a veteran like Kolton Miller, Bell's physical attributes are something you just can't teach.
Pat Coogan, C, Indiana
A national champion and Rose Bowl MVP, Pat Coogan is versatile, able to line up at both guard and center. His crucial block in the national title game is just one example of his reliability. With only two losses in the last two years, Coogan is a proven winner.
Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State
Dani Dennis-Sutton showed his leadership by playing in the bowl game against Clemson, where he sacked the quarterback twice. Leading the nation in punt blocks and ranking in the top five for career sacks, Dennis-Sutton is a captain in every sense of the word.
Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
With 60 pressures over the past two seasons, Gracen Halton has proven to be a rare force on the interior. His pass rush win rate surpasses even top prospects, and while he's considered a "tweener," his production speaks for itself.
Jack Kelly, LB, BYU
Jack Kelly's explosive burst off the edge has made him a standout at BYU, recording 10 sacks-the most for a BYU linebacker in a decade. His relentless motor and practice efforts earned him linebacker player of the week at the Senior Bowl.
Tacario Davis, CB, Washington
Injuries may have stalled Tacario Davis' first-round potential, but his talent is undeniable. At 6-foot-4, he's the tallest corner in the draft, and his performance at Arizona, including being a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe award, highlights his capabilities.
Ahmaad Moses, S, SMU
Ahmaad Moses may not have the typical size for a safety, but his production is top-notch. With more tackles, interceptions, and defensive touchdowns than some of the top names, Moses made waves in SMU's upset over Miami, collecting 15 tackles and two interceptions. Despite size concerns, he's played his way into serious draft consideration.
These players offer intriguing possibilities for the Raiders as they look to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.