The Raiders went defense in the second round after trading down yet again to stockpile picks.
Yesterday, Oakland Raiders fans were angry the team didn’t draft a playmaker on defense. On Day 2, after trading down yet again, Oakland made that defensive pick selecting defensive tackle PJ Hall with the 57th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Hall, who played at small college Sam Houston State, is a ferocious pass rusher who will most certainly help the Raiders up front. Hall was a consensus Top 10 prospect at defensive tackle in most pre-draft publications.
Hall is not only a big defensive body, he’s also quick. His low center of gravity, and powerful 310-pound body, are bolstered by strong and active hands. His quickness also allows him to even move outside at times (probably not something he will be asked to do in Oakland) as a edge rusher.
His challenges in the NFL will be around disengaging from blockers. Although strong and stout, his ability to break away from top NFL offensive line could be an issue. The biggest risk for the Raiders and coach Jon Gruden are his smaller size.
Still, Hall is a gamer who has high energy and stamina.