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
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