Now that the 2012 NFL Draft is over, we're profiling each team's draft. Who were the steals? Who were the reaches? We continue with the Oakland Raiders.
2012 NFL Draft analysis: Oakland Raiders
The 2012 NFL Draft was the first since the 1960s that did not feature Al Davis making selections for the Oakland Raiders. A new era has begun in the bay area after the long time owner and general manager passed away in the fall.
The Carson Palmer trade left the new regime a bit shorthanded heading into draft weekend. With Oakland's first pick not coming until the third round, the team had to play a bit of catch up. The Raider addressed needs right away, drafting offensive lineman Tony Bergstrom, linebacker Miles Burris and defensive end Jack Crawford.
Wide receiver Juron Criner was Oakland's late round gem. The former Arizona receiver fell all the way to the fifth round before the Raiders scooped him up.
Questionable pick: None
It’s tough to label any Raiders’ pick as a questionable pick this year, which is a bit of a change from the past. I am a bit skeptical about the impact Miles Burris will make on this team. But he has the motor and nasty streak that will fit right in with the silver and black mentality.
Late-round Steal: WR Juron Criner, round 5, pick 168
Criner was a receiver I thought highly of coming into the draft. He is not likely to ever emerge as a No. 1 receiver, but the potential is there for him to be a reliable possession receiver in the right offense. That’s a nice return for a fifth round pick.
2013 mock draft pick: Josh D - Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas | Matthew Fairburn - Matt Barkley, QB, USC
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