JUST IN: Raiders insiders discuss how team could bolster QB position… read more
Raiders’ Quarterback Conundrum: Insiders Weigh in on 2025 NFL Draft Prospects
As the Las Vegas Raiders prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, insiders are weighing in on the team’s quarterback prospects. With the Raiders holding the No. 8 pick in the draft, fans are eager to see if the team will select a quarterback to push current starter Aidan O’Connell.
According to Vic Tafur of The Athletic, the Raiders may miss out on top quarterback prospects Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. Tafur believes that these players may be off the board by the time the Raiders make their selection.
Tashan Reed of The Athletic echoed Tafur’s sentiments, stating that the draft is “not super attractive” for quarterbacks. However, Reed did suggest that there may be some options available in the second round.
One potential option for the Raiders could be Jameis Winston, currently a backup for the Cleveland Browns. Reed believes that Winston could be a viable option for the Raiders, although he acknowledges that Winston is not a clear upgrade over O’Connell.
Other names that have been mentioned as potential options for the Raiders include Pittsburgh Steelers backup Justin Fields, Detroit Lions backup Hendon Hooker, and Jacksonville Jaguars starter Trevor Lawrence. Tafur even suggested that the Raiders could potentially trade for Lawrence if the Jaguars were to “clean house” from the front office.
As the Raiders enter the offseason, they face a critical decision regarding the future of head coach Antonio Pierce. The team must also evaluate college quarterbacks in preparation for the draft.
Raiders owner Mark Davis is under pressure to make the right moves this offseason, with fans growing tired of losing seasons. However, with the help of minority owner Tom Brady, the Raiders may be headed in the right direction.
The team’s general manager, Tom Telesco, has already shown his ability to make savvy draft picks, selecting tight end Brock Bowers in the 2024 draft. Bowers set records in the Raiders’ 25-10 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 17.
Now, the Raiders need to find a quarterback who can throw to Bowers and lead the team to victory. Will it be O’Connell or someone else? The answer will have to wait until the offseason, when the Raiders will make their moves in preparation for the 2025 season.
