The Las Vegas Raiders faced a challenging situation leading up to the NFL Draft, particularly concerning their first-round pick.

Given the high demand for quarterbacks, their chances of securing one at the No. 13 spot were slim.

Before their turn, the Denver Broncos secured Bo Nix at No. 12, leaving the Raiders to address other needs and adopt a ‘best player available’ strategy.

They opted against risking their future by making a hefty trade for a quarterback they didn’t fully endorse, recognizing that they weren’t just one player away from contention.

Critics, like Mike Jones of The Athletic, voiced concerns not about their choices but about missed opportunities.

“Entering yet another season without a franchise QB in a division that features Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert is disconcerting.”

While snagging a first-round QB might have been costly, Jones suggests they could have addressed the position in later rounds.

He also noted their decision to pass on Spencer Rattler, once touted as a first-round talent with potential for development into a solid starter.

Instead of focusing on quarterback prospects, the Raiders prioritized strengthening their defense, a move consistent with the vision under new head coach Antonio Pierce.

Nevertheless, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell comprising their quarterback room, the Las Vegas Raiders might face challenges in the competitive AFC West Division this season.

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