Raiders add only safety with their final pick of draft

Originally published on Silver & Black Report on May 10, 2014


The Raiders may need some safety help in the near future with veteran Charles Woodson getting up there in age. The Raiders waited until their last pick of the 2014 NFL Draft (247th overall) to take a safety prospect, selecting Jonathan Dowling out of Western Kentucky.

Dowling is a speedy free safety with a range that can cover a lot of ground when playing “center field”. He has shown the ability to force turnovers while accumulating nine interceptions and eight forced fumbles over the last year.

Dowling also brings experience in special teams play, something that is crucial for late-round draft selections. Dowling has experience in kick coverage.

Dowling’s biggest weakness lies in his interest to deliver the big hits instead of wrapping up a tackle, leaving him undependable on the backside of the defense. Jason Tarver and Dennis Allen will have to get back to the basics with him when it comes to tackling.

The pick concludes the 2014 NFL Draft for the Raiders.