Sports
Paul Skenes takes perfect game into 7th inning, loses it on grounder from Jake Bauers
Yahoo Sports
NFL
Thoughts on Raidersâ drafting Keyron Crawford
TL;DR
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Auburn pass-rusher Keyron Crawford in the third round of the NFL Draft, surprising many analysts. This decision raised questions as the team had more pressing needs at defensive tackle and wide receiver.
Key points
- Las Vegas Raiders drafted Keyron Crawford in the third round.
- Crawford was selected with the 67th overall pick.
- The pick was a surprise given the team's other needs.
Mentioned in this story
Auburn
Keyron CrawfordLas Vegas RaidersNFL Draft
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 26: Keyron Crawford #DL34 of Auburn participates in a drill during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 26, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Auburn pass-rusher Keyron Crawford in the third round (No. 67 overall). Here are some thoughts on the pick:
This pick was somewhat of a surprise. The Raiders had more glaring needs and Crawford may have been projected to go lower than the third pick of the third round.
The Raiders bypassed needs at defensive tackle and wide receiver (there were some good players available) to take Crawford.
Clearly, Las Vegas likes Crawfordâs upside. He didnât play football until his senior year in high school. But he improved as a pass-rusher every season in college. He may be a project in the NFL and take some time to develop, but there is potential.
The Raiders have Maxx Crosby, new free-agent signing Kwity Paye, Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson. Koonce is a free agent after next year and Wilson will likely be because he is not expected to have his fifth season option exercised. So, Crawford, who was impressive at the Senior Bowl, is a long-term projection.
Like top two picks, Fernando Mendoza and Treydan Stukes, Crawford is considered a high-character player. That is a trait the Raiders covet.
Q&A
Why did the Raiders draft Keyron Crawford in the third round?
The Raiders drafted Keyron Crawford despite having more pressing needs, possibly due to their evaluation of his potential impact.
What were the Raiders' other needs during the draft?
The Raiders had significant needs at defensive tackle and wide receiver, which they chose to bypass in favor of selecting Crawford.
What is Keyron Crawford's background before joining the Raiders?
Keyron Crawford played as a pass-rusher at Auburn and participated in the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, showcasing his skills.
