Pair of Raiders undrafted free agent signings receiving some hype
Pair of Raiders undrafted free agent signings receiving some hype
The Las Vegas Raiders signed a total of 17 undrafted free agents in the hours following the 2024 NFL Draft, but two in particular are receiving a fair amount of hype ahead of rookie minicamp next week.
Per The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner and Scott Dochterman, offensive tackle Andrew Coker was named the one Raiders UDFA to watch moving forward. Here’s what they said about Coker, who some believe has the versatility to play guard.
Coker is big and experienced, having made 46 career starts at tackle, including all 15 during TCU’s FBS runner-up season in 2022. With a massive frame (6-7, 315) and 34-inch arms, Coker should compete for a reserve spot. The Raiders had a few other nice UDFA pickups, including Mississippi State receiver Tulu Griffin and Iowa defensive tackle Noah Shannon.
According to Vic Tafur of The Athletic, cornerback Ja’Quan Sheppard is one to watch, also, thanks to this quote from Shrine Bowl director of football operations, Eric Galko.
“(Sheppard) is how you build cornerbacks in a lab,” he said. “He is physically impressive with some very inconsistent tape. At worst, he can compete for a special teams role. With good coaching, this guy can be a starting cornerback in the NFL. He is physically talented. He just hasn’t put it all together yet.”
MORE: Scouting reports for Raiders UDFAs
Further adding to the idea that Coker and Sheppard — both of whom made our list of Raiders UDFAs who could make the 53-man roster — should be taken seriously, both received significant UDFA contracts.
Coker inked a deal that has $95,000 in guaranteed, including a $20,000 signing bonus. Sheppard topped that deal, with a contract that will pay him a total of $230,000 guaranteed that is aided by a $25,000 signing bonus.
Both rookies also play at positions where the Raiders have needs. At the very least, Las Vegas needs depth along the offensive line and Coker can possibly play two positions, helping his cause. The Raiders didn’t exactly shore up the cornerback position yet, giving Sheppard a good chance to make the roster and carve out a role.