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The Las Vegas Raiders have added splash players to their roster through free agency but still need to consider long-term options through the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Raiders had an exciting day on the first day of the legal tampering period, knocking down a massive allegorical domino by bringing in star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and successful journeyman quarterback Gardner Minshew.
Las Vegas needed to address both positions, and they added two of the best options on the market.
However, the Raiders still need to address certain positions and may do so through the draft instead.
One of those positions is linebacker, and one player they could add to fill an open spot is Missouri’s Ty’Ron Hopper. A two-time Second-Team All-SEC member, Hopper was part of a loaded Tigers defense that is putting several players in the draft this year.
A transfer from Florida, Hopper finished his collegiate career with 209 total tackles, 29 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, nine passes defended, an interception, and eight and a half sacks. He spent three years with the Gators and two with the Tigers.
Hopper played in the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., and performed at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana. Hopper was a standout among the linebackers at the Senior Bowl and posted good numbers at the Combine.
Hopper stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 231 pounds. On tape, he looks like a middle linebacker with a strongly built torso and the fluid lower body teams will covet in the league.
The most significant and most attractive element of Hopper’s game is his athleticism. Hopper is fast and can play the run well because of how quickly he can shoot gaps and get into the backfield. He also has the strength to take on blocks and shed them in the run game.
Not only does his athleticism help him in the run game, but it also allows him to be a factor in the passing game. Hopper has quick-twitch movement that should allow him to hold up against tight ends and even some receivers.
However, Hopper played a lot of middle linebacker at Missouri and likely won’t in the NFL because he does not have the IQ or instincts to remain at that position at the next level. He is best when turned loose as an athlete and can play freely as an inside linebacker.
Hopper is projected to be a sixth-round selection. If the Raiders want to add more athleticism to their linebacker grouping, Hopper could provide good depth.
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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