It’s hyperbole at this point, but it doesn’t make it less true. The Las Vegas Raiders need to make a splash at quarterback. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a guarantee—we’re talking about Jayden Daniels.
Landing Daniels isn’t going to be as easy as fans think, even if they’ve convinced themselves that it will be. “Go get your quarterback,” “make the trade,” etc.—we’ve heard the sayings. Unfortunately, pulling off a move of this magnitude goes beyond the understanding of your typical couch GMs.
The popular consensus appears to be that Caleb Williams and Drake Maye will go within the first two picks during the upcoming NFL draft. In turn, that’s led to much speculation. The speculation is whether new general manager Tom Telesco will attempt to move into the third slot, thereby making Daniels the choice.
Again, though, we’re in the midst of speculation season right now.
Do Tom Telesco and the Raiders go all in on Jayden Daniels?
The amount of draft capital that’ll be required to move into position for Daniels will be costly. For a team that’s looking to make a playoff run (and now possesses a notable defense), acquiring a potential game-changing quarterback might be worth the gamble.
From a practical standpoint, the Raiders are in a good position to make a realistic trade offer to the New England Patriots (third overall). As it stands, Telesco and the Raiders own nine total picks in this year’s draft, with three of them being within the top 100.
We’re pointing out the obvious, we know. Still, if you’re going to make a call involving so much prime draft real estate, you better be sure Daniels is the guy. Let’s not forget that 2023 rookie Aidan O’Connell is a promising signal-caller. He’s earned a shot to compete for the starting job this year, at the very least. Going 3-1 in the final stretch of last season certainly helps his case.
The shared history between Daniels and Antonio Pierce (having the interim tag removed this offseason) also plays a part. Daniels was in attendance for the team’s final regular-season game, and he even made sure to pay his respects during his Heisman acceptance speech. Make of that what you will.
It seems that, at least for some within Raider Nation, if the Raiders don’t land Daniels, it’ll be another lost offseason effort. What say you?
*Top Photo: Getty Images
Will Chiefs Winning The Super Bowl Lead Raiders Fans Into Paralyzing Uncertainty?
(By Tony Brucks)
I have Jayden graded higher than Maye or Williams. Its just me but he is the better all around QB than anyone else. Better head and smarts and better mechanics.
Unfortunately a year from now there isn’t a quality crop of QB prospects to be patient for. In addition the NFL is a qb driven league and if you’re not moving forward you’re losing ground. The Raiders have probably put two plans in motion to become more competitive at the position. One will require mortgaging your draft capital to get your guy. The other will be to shore up around your current guy like the 49ers did around Brock Purdy. Either way I’ll be cheering them on!
Yes in terms of I’m willing to give up what it takes to jump up and get Jayden Daniels. Now if that’s not possible, other teams don’t want to trade out, then I would prefer to take BPA at 13 and trade back up for Penix or Nix in late 1st.
Hey, you’re in Vegas. As they say, “roll the dice.”
Stay put, draft smart, build both lines out, and get your QB from trade or FA. None of the top 3 QBs are sure things.
BO NIX OR PENIX JR WILL BE THERE AT 13
The reality is that QBs are 50-50 on average and never a sure thing. Moving up to the third pick will cost multiple first round picks. The Raiders have several important holes to fill now. There may be a veteran QB they like in free agency or by trade. There’s likely to be a QB they can develop at 13 or in the second round.
I Have been a Raiders fan for 50 years. I would hate to see the Raiders sell the future for the hope of a player working out. I would rather see them check out a player like Tyler Huntley who fits the mold of their new coordinator.
From the following 40 year history of drafting QBs only Stabler stands out as a Superbowl Champion.
1962: Roman Gabriel 1st round pick
1968: Ken Stabler 2nd round pick
1976: Jeb Blount 2nd round pick
1980: Marc Wilson 1st round pick
1991: Todd Marinovich 1st round pick
2001: Marquis Tuiasopopo 2nd round pick
2007: JaMarcus Russell 1st overall pick
2013: Derek Carr 2nd round pick
So by all means, lets give away the draft picks by the dozen to get another first round star-to-be. Then let’s mortgage our homes for lottery tickets.