The Las Vegas Raiders are looking for young talent in the 2024 NFL Draft to build a postseason team.
The NFL Scouting Combine begins today, as teams will be present at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind., to learn more about players’ athleticism and who they are off the field.
The Raiders will have a contingent at the Combine, hoping to find the right fits both on and off the field. The Combine is a valuable experience for teams regarding the draft process.
One player who could help the Raiders return to the postseason is Utah defensive end Jonah Elliss. Elliss, the brother of current NFL linebackers Kaden, Christian, and Noah, hopes to join his siblings at the next level.
Elliss finished his Utes career with 78 total tackles, 23 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and 16 sacks. He was a Consensus All-American and First Team All-Pac 12 in 2023.
Elliss stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 243 pounds, putting him on the smaller side for an NFL defensive end. However, he makes up for his lack of size with explosiveness and toughness when he comes off the edge.
He has a compact build and good muscle. He also has long arms, which should benefit him at the next level, being an undersized edge rusher. If he can use those tools to his advantage, it could negate his lack of size.
Not only does Elliss fight hard every snap, but he has multiple pass-rush moves in his arsenal. He can cross-chop, swim, and spin against offensive tackles. While his size may cause problems, he has the effort and smarts to last as a pass rusher in the NFL.
Elliss is a monster rushing the passer. He couples strong upper body usage with a relentless pursuit of the football, which resulted in 12 sacks his junior season. According to Pro Football Focus, Elliss generated 39 total pressures in 2023.
He projects to be a plus-run defender due to his effort and physicality. He has a broad frame that he uses to smother ball carriers. Even if he is not getting to the quarterback, Elliss will impact the run game.
However, his size may cause him to wait until the third day to be selected. He rarely wins the play if he cannot win off the snap against a bigger offensive tackle.
Elliss is projected to be a seventh-round selection but could see his stock improve with a good combined performance. If the Raiders are looking for a smart, hardworking defensive end, Elliss could be a good fit.
From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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