Grading the pick: Raiders make a confusing move after great moves and take a player who plays a position that is a current roster logjam
The Las Vegas Raiders took a player they really should have focused on towards the back end of the draft, and next offseason.
The Las Vegas Raiders ended up going defense with their third pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, right after going defense in the second round with Arizona safety Treydan Stukes. This time, it was Auburn Tigers edge rusher Keyron Crawford.
Crawford is a raw prospect who hasn’t played football for very long. However, he’s got great size for someone who will likely play at that 5T-7 technique position. He’s just under 6’5, and 253 pounds. Crawford has 32” arms and 9” hands, so the measurables are good. There is an issue, though. The Raiders spent a third-round pick on him when they likely shouldn’t have, based on what we know about the roster.
Raiders shouldn’t have taken an edge rusher at 67
There is a pretty big roster issue right now, which makes this draft pick problematic. Firstly, how will the Raiders get him on the field? You’re using pick No. 67 on a player you will have a hard time putting on the field. I can tell you this: Maxx Crosby isn’t coming off the field often, if ever. Then on the other side, the Raiders have Malcolm Koonce, Charles Snowden, Tonka Hemingway, Tyree Wilson, and Kwity Paye. Some of those guys could likely be the defensive end in the 3-4 scheme, but this team won’t always be in a 3-4.
So, let’s say Crawford is an OLB in this scheme, and he will be. Then, he will be behind Snowden and Koonce for sure. I get the pick when thinking long term, because he does have a ton of potential, and the Raiders will need an edge rusher once Koonce and Wilson are gone. However, there is a logjam there right now.
Crawford does have some good traits, though. Crawford has an elite first step off the line. He’s quick and converts that speed well in his pass rush. He has some good bend and knows how to use his speed on plays when he knows he will be outpowered. But one of his best traits is how hard he plays. You won’t find many guys with a motor like him on every play.
Final grade
This was a bit of a reach in my opinion. I get the pick, and I do like the player. But, I don’t like the Raiders going for that kind of pick at that pick. He has some insane potential. But, project type of players can fail, and sometimes they do more than they don’t.
GRADE: C+
