Raiders third-round draft pick Bergstrom inks deal

Originally published on SBReport.net on July 28, 2012

The Oakland Raiders announced on Saturday the signing of offensive lineman Tony Bergstrom, the team's first draft pick in April. 

The signing marks the fifth signing of the first six players drafted by new general manager Reggie McKenzie. Fifth-round draft pick wide receiver Juron Criner is the lone draftee yet to sign his deal for the Raiders.

The signing comes on the day that players are to report to the Raiders training camp in Napa, Calif. 

Bergstrom, listed at 6-foot-5, 310 pounds, was selected in the third round (95th overall) after playing 48 career games for Utah, including starting his final 38 games at right tackle. Raiders head coach Dennis Allen has stated that Bergstrom will be kicked inside, primarily at the right guard position.

Bergstrom was largely considered one of the best zone-blocking offensive lineman in the 2012 NFL Draft, hence why the Raiders had him high up on their draft board. The Raiders are re-installing a zone-blocking scheme with the return of offensive coordinator Greg Knapp.

Criner is now the only non first-round draft pick that is yet to be signed to a deal. With practice starting on Monday, there are just two days for the Raiders front office and Criner to get a deal done in time. 

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