The Las Vegas Raiders have struggled a bit in the draft over the last few years. However, this one is showing a ton of promise already, and the regular season hasn't even started yet.
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The Raiders didn't get the quarterback that they wanted in the draft, but they got several other positions of need addressed for the future. One of those is linebacker, where the Raiders could need one for 2025.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Raiders' defensive lineup could see significant changes. As it stands, the team will only have one linebacker, Amari Burney, who was a rookie last year. This draft pick of Eichenberg suggests that the Raiders are preparing for a potential shift in their defensive strategy, possibly due to the potential departure of key players like Deablo and Spillane.
They got Spillane for super cheap last offseason, and he turned out to be the Raiders' second-best defender. After this season, he will likely ask for more money, or someone will outplay him compared to the Raiders. That's where Eichenberg comes in. He could play a role in 2024, but the big expectations are not there. That's still something we will have to wait and see.
And, while Eichenberg wasn't a day one pick, he was still a guy that the Raiders see as a player who can be a captain on the defense in the future.
Eichenberg played college football at Ohio State University, where he became a significant part of the team, starting in his junior year. His college career was marked by consistent performance and leadership, highlighted by being named a two-time captain. Over five seasons, he accumulated 268 tackles, showcasing his defensive prowess. His standout games include the 2022 Rose Bowl, where he set a record with 17 tackles, earning him the Defensive MVP of the game.
Selected with the 148th overall pick, Eichenberg's transition to the NFL is marked by his physical attributes and his reputation as a hard-hitting linebacker. His initial role with the Raiders might focus on run defense, given his strengths, though his development in pass coverage will be crucial for his long-term success in the league.
His predecessor, Robert Spillane, is already seeing some potential with Eichenberg that may suggest he can be a star in this league.
"I see limitless upside, he can be a 3-down, $100 million dollar linebacker one day," Spillane said.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 233 pounds, Eichenberg's size and speed (4.24s in the 20-yard shuttle) suggest he's built for the linebacker position, with capabilities that could translate well into the NFL's physical demands.
His early career with the Raiders will be watched closely, especially how he adapts his game to the professional level, particularly in areas like pass coverage, which could define his role and success in the NFL.
If he can show some flashes as a rookie behind a guy like Spillane, I think it's safe to say we could see a much bigger role from him in 2025. And, who knows, maybe he will end up making a ton of money like Spillane thinks he will. He has already locked down his spot on the 53-man roster, which is a start. After all, Eichenberg just loves football.
