A possible scenario where the Las Vegas Raiders pick a quarterback and a cornerback in the first round would enrage many. Would general manager Mike Mayock pull the trigger on such an unfathomable plan?
“No way!” is what you would hear from supporters of incumbent quarterback Derek Carr. Fact is Mayock and head coach Jon Gruden know what’s best for the organization, not their fanbase.
Signing Marcus Mariota to an incentive-laden contract isn’t exactly screaming confidence from Raiders brass.
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However, before we go down the wormhole that is the Raiders quarterback debate, let’s take a closer look at such a proposal. Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports recently shared this possible plan in his mock draft.
No. 12 Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
Sullivan points out that the Raiders head to Las Vegas with a potential star in the wings.
“The Raiders aren’t totally in love with Derek Carr as their starter, and I could see them bringing aboard a developmental quarterback to usher in their new era in Las Vegas. Love has tons of upside and it would be fascinating to see him work with Jon Gruden.”
The upside is definitely there, along with raw natural talent. Yet, if this were to come true I don’t see Love taking the field in his rookie year. Who knows but this might actually light a fire under Carr to get this team over the hump. On the other hand, he could falter and open up the door for Love in 2021. The only thing that would prevent this from happening is if the Raiders believe they have something with Marcus Mariota. There are many intangibles in this scenario and many things have to happen in order for it to become a true
#28 Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
The Silver and Black still need help with their secondary. In particular, they need a starting corner opposite of Trayvon Mullen. He would be that player at 28th. Sullivan predicts a trade with the Ravens in this scenario in which the Raiders move back and still get their guy.
“Vegas is able to trade down and still find a corner to help their secondary. Fulton can play on the outside and even move to the slot in a pinch.”
This possibility will surely cause a debate as some really want a wide receiver or two in the first round. That’s fair as the Raiders still need help at that position. However, this wide receiver class is extremely deep. I wouldn’t put it past Mayock to pull off such a scenario where he gets his quarterback, some help on defense, and two wide receivers in the later rounds. Seems like the draft can’t get here soon enough.
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