NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Quarterbacks rise post-combine, Redskins land pass catcher
Gareon Conley looks like a solid starter at the outside corner position for the Raiders. Rashaan Melvin was good last year as well, but he is a free agent and has had trouble staying healthy throughout his career.
With their third pick in the first round, the Raiders can afford to take the top player on the board, especially since they have so many needs. In this case, that would be Deandre Baker.
Baker had a great career at Georgia and he was one of the toughest corners to throw on in the SEC. Last year, he had two picks and nine pass breakups while helping Georgia to challenge for a spot in the College Football Playoff. He was generally solid and teams had a tough time beating him.
However, for the NFL level, Baker has some deep speed concerns. At the combine, he ran a solid 4.53 in the 40-yard dash, but considering his smaller size (5-11), that time was merely average. In workouts, he’ll have to prove that he has the speed needed to stay with NFL receivers. Otherwise, he could end up getting torched.
Oakland is a good landing spot for Baker, as he should have a high floor because of his solid technique. If he has enough speed, he will turn into a great starter for years to come as a No. 2 guy. The team could also consider Byron Murphy here, but it seems more likely that the Washington corner will go in the second round at this point in time.