2023 NFL Draft: Raiders Should Target This Cornerback at No. 7

The Raiders could find themselves on the outside looking in with this quarterback class in the 2023 NFL Draft. At No. 7 overall and following a massive trade-up from the Panthers, a small move up the board is likely necessary if Vegas wants a rookie signal-caller.

Given the current state of the roster, is it in the Raiders’ best interest to package multiple assets to secure the third or fourth-rated quarterback? My answer is no, it’s not. Rather than forcing a player at the most important position, the front office would be wise to take a best-player-available approach in this draft.

2023 NFL Draft: Raiders Should Take Best Available Player at No. 7

So, who is that at No. 7? A pass rusher is a realistic target, but with the legal issues surrounding Jalen Carter, and the likelihood of Will Anderson and Tyree Wilson going top six, it makes more sense to look to the secondary.

No safety in this draft class holds a high enough grade to look at here, although Brian Branch is an intriguing fit with his Alabama roots and versatility. Still, the most stacked position in the 2023 NFL Draft is cornerback. And the Raiders can have the pick of the litter.

Joey Porter Jr. sits atop my personal rankings, and Devon Witherspoon is a favorite among Raiders fans that I have spoken to. Both of these guys would look incredible in the Silver & Black, but there is an even better option out there.

Christian Gonzalez Should Be the Pick

Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez possesses the idyllic build for an NFL corner. He is plenty tall, quite stocky, and athletic as can be. Gonzalez proved all of this at the NFL Draft Scouting Combine, posting some impressive numbers in several workouts:
•4.38 40-Yard Dash
•1.54 10-Second Split
•41.5” Vertical Jump
•11’1” Broad Jump