Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman-USA TODAY NETWORK

Raiders Draft Prospect: LB Jaylan Ford, Texas

Originally posted on FanNation Raider Maven
By Carter Landis | Last updated 3/10/24

The Las Vegas Raiders are working through their offseason, looking for ways to improve their roster before they begin the regular season.

The Raiders are beginning an exciting time in Las Vegas as Coach Antonio Pierce and General Manager Tom Telesco kick off a new era of Raiders football. The Raiders ended the 2023 season with strong momentum, looking to build on it in 2024.

The 2024 NFL Draft is just under two months away, a chance for teams to add young talent and build for the future. The Raiders have several good defensive players, especially at linebacker, but could add more depth to that position.

Texas’ Jaylan Ford could be a fit in that regard. A two-time First-Team All-Big 12 member, Ford is one of the most athletic linebackers in the class.

Ford finished his Longhorns career with 287 total tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, four forced fumbles, four passes defended, six interceptions, and three sacks. Ford performed well at the NFL Scouting Combine last week and participated at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama.

Ford stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 240 pounds. He is fairly tall with a slim waist and a strong, quick lower body. He played many snaps as a middle linebacker at Texas but could transition to a new role in the NFL.

On tape, Ford is a relentless run defender. He is constantly shooting gaps and flying to the football to make plays. He is at his best in open space and chasing after ball carriers.

In the passing game, Ford has the athleticism to stay downfield, covering tight ends and the occasional receiver. He can move well downfield, even without game-breaking speed. Ford projects to be a player who can thrive on passing downs.

However, Ford’s speed could be a problem for him at the next level. He is sometimes slow to react to plays, and when blockers get to him, he is taken out of the play. He will need to be better at recognizing plays to stay on the field in the NFL.

Ford is projected to be a day three selection in the draft. Ford could provide run defense and athleticism to the Raiders’ linebacker room if they select him.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.

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This article first appeared on FanNation Raider Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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