2023 NFL Mock Draft: Oklahoma football edition – Where will the Sooners land in the NFL Draft?

LAS VEGAS, NV - APRIL 28: Walter Payton Man of the Year Andrew Whitworth stands on stage as commissioner Roger Goodell of the NFL announces the Green Bay Packers pick during round one of the 2022 NFL Draft on April 28, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - APRIL 28: Walter Payton Man of the Year Andrew Whitworth stands on stage as commissioner Roger Goodell of the NFL announces the Green Bay Packers pick during round one of the 2022 NFL Draft on April 28, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
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Eric Gray (0) is pictured at University of Oklahoma media day on OU campus in Norman on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.Ou Media Day 17
Eric Gray (0) is pictured at University of Oklahoma media day on OU campus in Norman on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.Ou Media Day 17

Eric Gray goes west to the Las Vegas Raiders at the conclusion of the third round (Round 3 – Pick 37 – compensatory pick).

Current Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (Oklahoman) is entering his post-prime years as a back in the league. Running backs have a short shelf life in the NFL, especially power backs like Jacobs. He (Jacobs) needs some relief and gets it in the form of Eric Gray. Gray gets to Vegas and immediately impacts the Raiders’ offense. With Jacobs seeing the majority of the carries until he needs rest, Gray will be a big redzone target for the Raiders. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield will increase his worth early. Gray takes the starting spot within three years from a worn-out Jacobs.