As coverage about the 2023 NFL Draft kicks into overdrive, you’re going to see the Las Vegas Raiders linked to a bevy of prospects. Among those players is Florida’s Anthony Richardson. Dave Ziegler knows better than most that his team needs a long-term answer at quarterback. Someone to be groomed while Jimmy Garoppolo holds down the fort. That being said, it’s definitely worth noting that the Raiders took an interest in the signal-caller, a quarterback that’s drawn comparisons from Raiders fans to JaMarcus Russell and Terrelle Pryor. Yikes.
It’s definitely worth pointing out that Ziegler himself was the first to greet Richardson following his pro day. Now, is that something or nothing? On top of that, Raiders beat writer Vincent Bonsignore made an interesting observation.
The Raiders wanted a closer look at Florida QB Anthony Richardson
“The Raiders – led by GM Dave Ziegler and Assistant GM Champ Kelly – spent time with Florida QB Anthony Richardson at his Pro Day. By all accounts, the meeting went well, and the Raiders came away impressed.”
Obviously, all NFL teams will meet with NFL prospects, which is not exactly breaking news. We get it. Nevertheless, considering the need at quarterback, it becomes easy to connect the dots if you’re observing the Raiders. By no means is Bonsignore claiming Richardson will be drafted by the team. However, whenever the top of the Raiders’ front office food chain wants to get a closer look at a player, a mental note has to be made. Say what you will about Richardson as a player, he’d be an interesting project for head coach Josh McDaniels. Don’t worry, Raider Nation; there was only one Russell, and Richardson isn’t a clone by any stretch. Still, the apprehension is understandable. Truly, especially when you consider what Raiders fans have been put through this century.
At the end of the day, Richardson himself said he has no clue as to what’s going to happen on Draft Day. So, let the speculation begin.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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