According to a report by Tashan Reed of The Athletic, the Las Vegas Raiders are considering trading up in the 2024 NFL Draft to secure a quarterback.
This decision stems from the team’s quest to solidify the quarterback position following uncertainties in the 2023 season, during which rookie Aidan O’Connell assumed the role, accumulating 2,218 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
The recent acquisition of quarterback Gardner Minshew, who demonstrated a commendable performance for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 with 3,305 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, provides an alternative option for the Raiders.
However, the draft appears to be their primary focus. Currently holding the No. 13 pick, the Raiders aim to address their quarterback needs in the upcoming draft.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggests that there is a sense of urgency from the Raiders’ new head coach, Antonio Pierce, to secure a quarterback through the draft.
While the 13th pick presents opportunities for the Raiders, acquiring one of the top quarterbacks in this year’s draft class may require strategic maneuvering. Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Jayden Daniels as the top three quarterbacks, are all expected to be off the board within the first three picks.
Nonetheless, the Raiders have viable options beyond the top three. Reed highlights potential targets such as Washington’s Michael Penix Jr., Oregon’s Bo Nix, and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy.
Regardless of the chosen path, the Las Vegas Raiders aim to secure the right quarterback to spearhead a new era in Las Vegas. Having missed the playoffs in the last two seasons, head coach Antonio Pierce is determined to reverse this trend and lead the Raiders to postseason success.
It will be interesting to see what the Raiders end up doing in the 2024 NFL Draft and whether or not they find themselves a new long-term quarterback option.
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