As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders, coming off a disappointing 4-13 season, face critical decisions regarding their future roster. With the sixth overall pick, analysts suggest that the team could either target a highly-rated quarterback or the top-ranked running back in the draft. With options such as Ashton Jeanty and Travis Hunter on the table, the Raiders must consider their immediate needs alongside long-term strategies. This article explores the top five prospects that the Raiders are likely to evaluate leading up to the draft.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Potential Quarterback Options for the Raiders |
| 2) Riveting Running Back Selections |
| 3) Impactful Defensive Prospects |
| 4) Wide Receiver Candidates to Watch |
| 5) The Raiders’ Overall Draft Strategy |
Potential Quarterback Options for the Raiders
With significant scrutiny on the quarterback position in recent seasons, the Raiders could utilize their sixth overall pick to secure a promising signal-caller. The two primary candidates on the radar include Shedeur Sanders and possibly others depending on the team’s evaluation during the draft process. Sanders, who showcased his talents at Colorado, boasts a remarkable completion rate of 74% during the previous season, amassing over 4,100 passing yards and 37 touchdowns against just 10 interceptions.
His success stems not only from his strong arm and accuracy but also from his fearless approach to the game, often challenging defenses with his passing decisions. Despite facing pressure from tougher opponents, Sanders’ ability to read defenses poses a valuable asset for the Raiders. If he is available when the Raiders are on the clock, they could decide to take a gamble on his potential, especially given their current roster struggles.
Furthermore, the Raiders must consider how a younger quarterback like Sanders could work alongside their existing players, particularly if they opt to retain Geno Smith as a veteran presence. The dynamic between a seasoned quarterback and a rookie could ease Sanders’ transition into the NFL, setting him up for long-term success.
Riveting Running Back Selections
If the Raiders choose to bolster their running game instead of focusing on quarterback options, Ashton Jeanty stands out as a prime candidate. Jeanty, hailing from Boise State, put up staggering numbers last season, rushing for 2,601 yards with an impressive average of 7.0 yards per carry. His 29 rushing touchdowns in 2024 came remarkably close to breaking one of college football’s most storied records held by Barry Sanders.
A multifaceted player, Jeanty’s agility, speed, and durability make him an alluring option who could significantly elevate the Raiders’ ground game. New head coach Pete Carroll, experienced in building effective running offenses, may prioritize adding a player of Jeanty’s caliber to replicate past successes witnessed with the Seattle Seahawks. A consistent running game could be pivotal for the Raiders, allowing the offense to become more balanced and less predictable.
Selecting Jeanty would not only address an immediate need but could be seen as an investment in the Raiders’ future. Establishing a dominant running back could ease the pressure on subsequent quarterbacks the team selects, allowing for a smoother integration process into the NFL.
Impactful Defensive Prospects
In addition to bolstering their offense, the Raiders would benefit significantly from strengthening their defensive line. Mason Graham, the top-ranked defensive line prospect, is a key figure as the Raiders evaluate their needs. He garnered attention through outstanding performances at Michigan, including being named the Rose Bowl Defensive MVP. Graham’s ability to stop plays behind the line of scrimmage could provide a much-needed dynamic to the Raiders’ defense.
Despite the plethora of defensive line talent in this draft class, Graham’s consistent performance in high-pressure situations positions him as a valuable asset for an organization desperate for defensive improvements. The Raiders’ defensive statistics from the previous season indicate a crucial need for playmakers who can disrupt the opposing team’s offensive rhythm.
Moreover, Graham’s experience in top-tier college football means he is prepared for the transition to the professional realm. By acquiring a player who can impact the game immediately, the Raiders could fast-track their rebuilding process and instill a culture of toughness and competitiveness on defense.
Wide Receiver Candidates to Watch
On the receiving front, if the Raiders decide to explore adding a wide receiver to their roster, they might find considerable talent in Tetairoa McMillan, who stands as CBS Sports’ top-ranked receiving prospect. McMillan exhibited his athletic ability at Arizona, leading the Pac-12 with over 1,300 receiving yards in 2024 while averaging an impressive 16.1 yards per catch.
At 6-foot-5 and 212 pounds, McMillan possesses both size and speed that make him a formidable threat against cornerbacks. His capacity to create mismatches and score in high-pressure scenarios further endorses his readiness for the NFL. The Raiders’ offense could significantly benefit from such a versatile player who has demonstrated both physicality and agility.
Bringing in McMillan would allow the Raiders to readjust their receiving corps to enhance their explosive capabilities downfield, ultimately supporting whichever young quarterback they decide to select. A strategic investment in a top-tier receiver could equip Las Vegas to compete more effectively in a highly dynamic AFC West division.
The Raiders’ Overall Draft Strategy
As the draft date approaches, the Raiders are poised to make impactful decisions that could shape their franchise for years to come. Their strategy must encompass a range of considerations from evaluating player potential to assessing immediate team needs. By focusing on building depth and talent across key positions, the Raiders can solidify their roster while exploring various avenues for improvement.
Moreover, the Raiders must balance the need for immediate performance while keeping an eye on the long-term direction of their team. Verifying which players are accessible by the time their turn comes in the draft will be crucial, as will monitoring the movements of other NFL teams at the draft table. The process of building a successful franchise is accompanied by careful planning and execution—two elements the Raiders must prioritize as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft.
Ultimately, the decisions made during this draft will serve not only to fill current gaps in the roster but to establish a framework for the Raiders’ future, especially as they contend with several competitive teams in the league.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Raiders are considering both a quarterback and running back for the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. |
| 2 | Ashton Jeanty, projected to be a top running back, has had an impressive college career that could transform the Raiders’ running game. |
| 3 | Mason Graham is among the prospects being considered to strengthen the Raiders’ defensive line. |
| 4 | Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan is a standout choice if the Raiders decide to enhance their receiving corps. |
| 5 | The draft decisions will be pivotal to shaping the Raiders’ long-term success and franchise direction. |
Summary
The Las Vegas Raiders are at a crucial juncture as they prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft. With a sixth overall pick, the team has the opportunity to address critical needs on both offense and defense, with prospects like Ashton Jeanty and Mason Graham coming into play. The decisions made during this draft can set the tone for the organization’s future, as they seek to rebuild and contend in a competitive division. As April approaches, all eyes will be on the Raiders and their strategic choices that could either rejuvenate their roster or leave them in a cycle of struggle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the Raiders looking for with their draft pick?
The Raiders are primarily looking to enhance their roster by addressing critical gaps, particularly at quarterback, running back, and wide receiver positions while also strengthening their defensive line.
Question: How impactful can Ashton Jeanty be for the Raiders?
Ashton Jeanty has demonstrated elite rushing capabilities throughout his college career and could significantly bolster the Raiders’ running game, bringing agility and explosiveness.
Question: What should Raiders fans expect from the upcoming draft?
Fans can expect the Raiders to focus on acquiring high-impact players who can contribute immediately while also considering the team’s long-term strategic vision for building a competitive roster.
