FanIQ NFL Mock Draft: #1 Oakland Raiders

You want the fans take on the NFL Draft, that's what you're going to get. Over the next 3 weeks we'll be conducting our own Mock Draft with fans of the respective teams (in most cases) playing GM. With the 1st pick, I'll be getting the draft underway. Unfortunately trades aren't an option ...

1st Pick, Oakland Raiders: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech

Strongly Considered: JaMarcus Russell, Joe Thomas

Explanation: Here's a guy ... ok I won't subject you to any more of that. Why not JaMarcus who appears the locked in choice? I've never been a fan of selecting QB's this high unless they are a sure thing. And despite all the measurables, Russell is far from such a title. I'm going to be weary of a guy who earned his draft status in just one nationally televised game. Russell made his fair share of bad decisions during his years at LSU. Arm strength and size mean nothing when poor decisions are made.

Honestly, if I were the Raiders I'd explore every conceivable option to trade down. Oakland needs players, emphasis on PLURAL.

Since that's not a likely option, Al Davis needs the best player available. Calvin Johnson fits that criteria this year. It's not ideal to build a team from the WR up, but Johnson appears to finally be a talented wide receiver that won't be a prima donna. Randy Moss is not going to be a Raider long term, but as least in the short run a Johnson/Moss pairing would be straight cash homey.

I'd give serious consideration to Joe Thomas as well. Robert Gallery hasn't lived up, but they're not giving up just yet. Plant Thomas on the other side for now and hopefully whoever plays QB will last 4 quarters. In the end it's Johnson. Raiders need playmakers, and a sure thing. Besides, I think a fine QB will be available at the top of Round 2.

Who would you have selected? Feel free to bash away.

Up Next: Detroit Lions with GM MrNFL