The Las Vegas Raiders started their 2024 NFL Draft with a surprising but impactful selection in the first round, with the team taking Georgia tight end Brock Bowers with the No. 13 overall pick.
While the selection was unexpected, there's no question the Raiders have added an elite prospect at the tight end position who could be among the best in the NFL sooner rather than later.
After seeing such a pick, nothing is off the table for Raiders general manager Tom Telesco, who clearly isn't going to be rigid in his approach in terms of drafting for immediate need.
Even still, the Raiders do have some immediate needs that also qualify as long-term ones. We address two of them in our Day 2 mock draft for Las Vegas.
Raiders NFL mock draft for Day 2
Round 2, Pick 44: OT Patrick Paul, Houston
The Raiders still have a glaring need on the right side of the offensive line, as it's doubtful Thayer Munford Jr. is a long-term solution at right tackle.
Paul is a much better pass protector than run-blocker, but he should improve in the latter area once NFL coaches get their hands on him.
He would immediately challenge Munford for the starting spot, and he could very well win the job. And, if Las Vegas decides to move on from Kolton Miller in a few years, Paul could be the long-term solution on the left side.
Round 3, Pick 77: CB Andru Phillips, Kentucky
The Raiders' need at cornerback is both a short-term and long-term one. Las Vegas is set to start Jack Jones on the outside and Nate Hobbs, who is in the final year of his contract, in the slot, leaving a need on the boundary.
Phillips is a phenomenal athlete who can keep up with faster receivers, and he's sensational in the run game. He also has the versatility to play inside or out, and possesses the toughness and instincts to make a big impact.
