We are taking a look at the top 65 players on the Oakland Raiders, ranking them from 1-65. The ranking considerations are based on projections and what to expect in 2015:
No. 46, Neiron Ball, linebacker: Ball, a fifth-round draft pick, is an athletic player. Expect him to make a difference on special teams this season. The key for Ball, who is recovering from a micro-fracture knee surgery, is his health.
No. 47, Kenbrell Thompkins, receiver: Thompkins is a talented backup receiver. He will be interesting to watch in camp at a crowded receiver spot. If he has a great preseason, he could be the No. 4 receiver. If not, he could be cut.
No. 48, Leon Orr, defensive lineman: The former Florida player will be interesting to watch this summer. He was terrific in the offseason sessions, working with the second team. That’s pretty impressive for an undrafted rookie. Orr was a draftable player, but was dismissed from his college team. If he can stay on straight and narrow, he could be a steal for Raiders and could be an instant contributor.
No. 49, Max Valles, defensive end: The sixth-round pick has eight sacks last year at Virginia. He is raw but has a chance to develop quickly. He is 20 years old. I fully expect the Raiders to give him time to become a good player.
No. 50, James Dockery, cornerback: Dockery is a decent backup cornerback and special teams player. He was signed away from Carolina this offseason. He is a bottom-of-the-roster player who could help on Sundays.
