The NFL draft is only about a week away, and for the second year in a row the Oakland Raiders will have the fourth overall pick. When it comes to the Raiders needs heading into the 2015 season, the list goes on and on. They weren’t too successful in the free agent market, and will rely on their draft selections to fill some holes on the roster. 

But should the Raiders keep their high pick or trade down for more?

This year’s situation is much like last year's in the sense that it all depends on who’s available at number four and what the Raiders draft board looks like. If their top choices, such as Amari Cooper, Kevin White, or Leonard Williams, are all off the board, a trade down becomes a real possibility. Regardless, it is something general manager Reggie McKenzie should consider because this teams needs as many picks as they can get. And if their top choice is no longer available, they have some leverage.

Teams have shown interest in trading up for quarterback Marcus Mariota, and the Raiders could potentially be the perfect trade partner.  The silver and black aren’t in need of a quarterback, as they have Derek Carr, who they drafted in the second round of last year’s draft. Depending on how the draft is moving along and what is offered, McKenzie could very well trade down.

Last year, Khalil Mack was number one on the Raiders draft board, and if taken before reaching the fourth pick, McKenzie would have been looking to trade down. Fortunately for the Raiders and the future of this defense, Mack was still available.  

It will be a similar situation this year. It all depends on who’s available when the Raiders are on the clock and what is offered to them for the fourth pick. This team needs playmakers both offensively and defensively. Carr needs weapons, and they need to continue building a defensive bully with Jack Del Rio.  

The Raiders had a successful 2014 draft, bringing in young players who made an immediate impact, and will look for the same qualities when making their selections this year.

On April 30, the Raiders may or may not trade down in the draft, but they should definitely consider it. As a rebuilding team with several needs heading into the season, they need as many picks as they can get. That being said, they also need playmakers.  It will all depend on the silver and black’s draft board and who they want the most.  If their top choices are gone, a trade becomes a real possibility, but, like last year, if their top choice is available, they should take him.

Regardless, it has what it takes to be an interesting draft for the Raiders, and Reggie McKenzie and company have some decisions to make.