Auburn defensive back Walt McFadden was drafted in the fifth round by the Oakland Raiders during the final day of the 2010 National Football League Draft. McFadden was the 138th overall pick and is the first AU player drafted by the Oakland since Reggie Ware in 1988.
McFadden was the second Tiger to be drafted, joining running back Ben Tate, who was taken by the Houston Texans in the second round (58th overall).
The Pompano Beach, Fla., native played in 49 career games at Auburn, starting in every game during his final two years. He finished with 87 career stops, 26 pass deflections, and nine interceptions. He is tied for the Auburn career record for interception returns for touchdown with three.
“It’s a blessing to have the opportunity to get drafted,” McFadden said. “Especially considering how many people that play college football. I’m just blessed. In a way I was kind of surprised (being drafted by Oakland), but I’m more happy about going there. It’s a dream come true.”
As a senior, McFadden was an Associated Press second-team All-SEC pick after recording 46 tackles with 14 PBUs and six interceptions. McFadden had two interceptions for touchdowns, including a 100-yard return for a score against Northwestern in the Outback Bowl. He was also an SEC Academic Honor Roll recipient during his final year.
McFadden will have the opportunity to reunite with former defensive teammate Quentin Groves, who was traded earlier in the week from Jacksonville. Former AU quarterback Jason Campbell is also one of the newest members of the Oakland franchise after being traded Saturday from the Washington Redskins.
“I feel like having Quentin there will be nice,” McFadden said. “Having someone there to help me and to just have a friendship with will help. When I came in as a freshman, Jason was just leaving and I got to know him from when he came back. I’m excited to be there with Jason, too.”
