The Las Vegas Raiders hold 10 picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, and general manager John Spytek made it clear that safety is a numbers game. “I think we have three safeties in the roster right now,” Spytek said. “So it’s just a math equation right there. We need a few more.”

While the Raiders are expected to take quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, their remaining nine selections will likely target defensive backs. The team has three safeties — Isaiah Pola-Mao, Jeremy Chinn, and Tristin McCollum — and new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard’s scheme uses multiple safeties in varied roles. Spytek noted the draft class is deep at the position. “From top to bottom … there’s some quality players there,” he said. “And I think historically, if you look for the right things and you find the right guy, that’s a spot where you can find quality players maybe later in the draft.”

At cornerback, Eric Stokes has one starting spot locked, and the trade for Taron Johnson solidified the slot. The big question is third-round pick Darien Porter, who showed flashes last season. “I was happy with the way Darien finished the season last year,” Spytek said. “He’s had a great offseason so far. … I think you always expect guys to make a pretty big jump between years one and two.”

Mid-round targets

Cornerback options include San Diego State’s Chris Johnson, who visited the Raiders and fits Leonard’s zone scheme, and Indiana’s D’Angelo Ponds, a teammate of Mendoza. Georgia’s Daylen Everette also visited. At safety, USC’s Kamari Ramsey and Penn State’s Zakee Wheatley offer versatility.

Late-round fliers

Later possibilities include Texas’ Malik Muhammad, California’s Hezekiah Masses, and Washington’s Ephesians Prysock at cornerback. Safety prospects with upside include Miami’s Jakobe Thomas and Indiana’s Louis Moore, another Hoosier from the national championship team.