Meet your newest Raider, OT Menelik Watson

Photo courtesy of collegepressbox.com

Originally published on SBReport.net on April 26, 2013

The Raiders held on to their second-round selection on Friday and used it to take offensive tackle Menelik Watson, out of the Florida State University.

Watson once again fills a need as the Raiders offensive line struggle and Watson can be used on the right side while they have incumbent starter Jared Veldheer on the left side.

Watson possesses amazing athleticism that allows him to get by with technique that still needs some work. His rusty technique comes as a result of being a newcomer to football after leaving basketball.

The 6-foot-5, 310-pound tackle has a great, powerful first punch and has great speed that allows him to get to the next level and produce blocks in the secondary.

Many of his negatives stem from his poor technique, which Raiders offensive line coach Tony Sparano will need to work on with him. He tends to have poor footwork at times and finds himself in trouble as a result, but all of this is correctable with the right coaching and with enough work.

Watson started every game last season as a right tackle but is projected to be able to play both sides. Don't be surprised if the Raiders even utilize his athleticism by putting him on the inside at guard.

The Raiders found themselves another solid draft pick in the second round and used the gained pick from Thursday's trade well.

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