Raiders draft 2024: Joe Philbin connections?

New Las Vegas assistant coach was at Ohio State in 2023

New Las Vegas Raiders senior offensive assistant Joe Philbin spent the 2023 season at Ohio State as an offensive analyst.

That could give the Raiders an advantage in the draft. Philbin knows the Buckeyes’ talents well and he could give the team insight to them.

The Buckeyes’ best draft prospect this year is wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who is expected to be a top four-or-five overall pick. The Raiders don’t have an immediate need at the position, so there is little chance they end up with Harrison.

Yet, there are a few other Ohio State offensive talents who could come from Columbus on Philbin’s recommendation.

The top other offensive prospect from Ohio State is tight end Cade Stover. He is expected to be a third-round prospect. Since they took Michael Mayer in the second round last year, the Raiders might decide to address more pressing needs with their No. 77 pick. But a Stover pick is not out of the question in Las Vegas.

Offensive lineman Matthew Jones and running back Miyan Williams could interest the Raiders in the late rounds or as undrafted free agents.

Even though, he’s an offensive coach, Philbin, of course, is well versed with the Buckeyes’ defensive draft prospects as well.

The Raiders could be a fit for Ohio State defensive tackle Michael Hall. He could be a possible fit at the No. 44 pick. Another option for the Raiders could be Ohio State linebacker Tommy Eichenberg. He’s considered a early-Day Three prospect and that’s exactly where the Raiders may be looking to add to the position.

While, naturally, it’s no sure thing, the Raiders will draft any Ohio State product, but surely they are tapping into Philbin’s experience with these prospects during the draft process.