When most analysts discussed the Raiders in the weeks leading up to the NFL draft, the majority had Oakland using its first-round pick on a defensive player. Nearly every mock that was updated as late as draft day thought so.
So the team's selection of Roseville native Kolton Miller – a UCLA offensive tackle chosen after moving from 10th to 15th – seemed surprising to some. However, on draft day, it is believed that the Raiders got the position they targeted. They were said to be looking at Notre Dame's Mike McGlinchey – but he was selected by the 49ers one pick before Oakland was on the clock, which led to the Raiders trading down.