Could Raiders be blocked for Ashton Jeanty?

Could No. 5 pick be sweet spot for Boise State running back?

We’re three days from the first round of the NFL draft and there has been so much momentum and speculation building that the Las Vegas Raiders will use the No. 6 pick on Boise State star running back Ashton Jeanty.

There have been plenty of speculation that he is the Raiders top target and on Friday, Las Vegas general manager John Spytek did nothing to quiet that talk when he said he’d have no problem taking a running back that high and, of course, the Raiders have closely studied Jeanty

So, yes, the Raiders may not allow Jeanty to fall beyond the sixth pick. But, what if he isn’t available? What if Jeanty is taken earlier?

NFL Media reported Monday that the No. 5 pick, owned by the Jacksonville Jaguars, is considered as a trade-up spot for teams interested in drafting Jeanty, to get ahead of the Raiders.

Among the teams that could try to leapfrog the Raiders for Jeanty’s services reportedly include the Chicago Bears (No. 10) and Dallas Cowboys (No. 12).

Also, ESPN reported that the Jaguars could keep the No. 5 pick and select Jeanty themselves.

So, the Raiders may not have a clear path to Jeanty after all. While he would be a great fit in Las Vegas, it wouldn’t be the end of the world, if the Raiders don’t get Jeanty. If he is taken earlier, that could drop a top prospect such as Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham or LSU’s tackle Will Campbell to the sixth pick. Also, it is considered an extremely rich running back class so the Raiders can get a starter on Day Two if Jeanty is already taken.