Raiders cannot pass on a potential early Day 3 prospect who could completely change their defense, despite not being exactly what they need
The Las Vegas Raiders need a nose tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they also need someone who can play the three-technique, and Gracen Halton can do that.
The Las Vegas Raiders need a defensive tackle in this upcoming class, one year after drafting two last season. In the 2025 NFL Draft, they took JJ Pegues, who showed some flashes, and Tonka Hemingway, who has now been converted to a defensive end in this 3-4 scheme.
In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Raiders have to walk away with one defensive tackle, at least. And, while they desperately need someone to play the nose spot in this 3-4 scheme, they really just need dudes who are talented in both the run and pass game on the defensive line. Maxx Crosby and Adam Butler need some help. Luckily, the Raiders can get them that help, but they cannot pass on a potential early Day 3 guy if he’s there at any of the Raiders’ three fourth-round picks.
Raiders should target Oklahoma Sooners DT Gracen Halton in the 2026 NFL Draft
Halton is a projected fourth-rounder. But, he could easily go in the third round if a run is made on defensive tackles. However, Halton may be the most athletic DT in the entire draft. He had the third-fastest 40-yard dash at the combine with a 4.82, the fifth-best 10-yard split at 1.70u, the best vertical jump at 36.50”, and the second-best broad jump at 9’6”.
There may not be a better get-off at the line in this entire draft. Halton is quick, much quicker than you would think, given his size. And that plays a significant role in most of the wins he has on tape. He’s a strong run defender when playing at the point. However, Halton, for how strong he is, seems to struggle immensely to get off blocks laterally in the run game.
Halton also has great closing speed and the ability to pursue quarterbacks when they leave the pocket, attacking with great angles. He’s a guy who’s a can’t-miss pass rusher if he’s in a part-time role. However, he has significant potential for development as a full-time three-technique.
The Raiders need a nose tackle, and Halton can’t play that. They also need a pass rusher at the 3T spot. And, they need someone who could maybe take over full-time as the starter when Adam Butler’s contract is up soon. The Raiders won’t always be in an odd-man front. They will be in some even-man fronts from time to time, because that’s just how the game is played today. It’s hard to predict just how much they will be in either because this is Rob Leonard’s first year as a DC, but having a great 3T is not a bad idea, and they can always draft a pure nose later in the draft or continue to develop Pegues.
