In a defense-heavy draft, it only seems right that the Oakland Raiders selected a pair of talented playmakers in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. First, the team addressed its need on the defensive line by selecting Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell with the No. 4 overall pick, and then followed it up by selecting Mississippi State safety Johnathan Abram with the No. 27 overall pick.
Abram caught Head Coach Jon Gruden and General Manager Mike Mayock's attention during the Senior Bowl while playing on the South roster. Even though Abram wasn't able to play due to a knee injury, his willingness to stick around and help fellow players learn the playbook was a testament to his character.
The former Bulldog has a lot of upside; here's what you should know about the Raiders' newest player:
1. Aggressive playmaker with the ability to bring down the quarterback.
The Raiders got a stud in Abram, as he's been known to thump opposing players consistently, and he has a quality resume. He totaled 33 games played, 107 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, two interceptions, and 10 passes defensed during his college career.
2. Attended junior college prior to Mississippi State.
Prior to joining the Bulldogs' roster, Abram spent his freshman season as a member of the University of Georgia but transferred to Jones County Junior College. He received a scholarship from Georgia again after leaving but declined and joined Mississippi State.
3. Follow him on social media.
If you want to connect with the newest Raider you can follow him on Twitter @JohnathanAbram1.
4. Has the tape of a throwback player.
During Gruden and Mayock's post-draft press conference, Gruden mentioned that Abram hits like a player from the 70s and 80s. One of the biggest strengths Abram offers is his speed and physicality, both of which fit the criteria of the Silver and Black.
5. He appeared on Good Morning Football.
Abram sat down with the Good Morning Football crew to discuss his NFL Scouting Combine performance, and why he deserved to be the first safety taken in the 2019 NFL Draft; take a look.
The Raiders got better by the end of Thursday night, adding a trio of talented players in the first round. It'll be exciting to see what their future holds going forward.
