With the 2025 NFL draft hurtling toward us, there has been much hand-wringing over who the Las Vegas Raiders and general manager John Spytek should select with the sixth overall pick. Raider Nation is feverishly debating over whether the pick should be a quarterback, Ashton Jeanty, an offensive lineman, or someone on defense.
What if, instead, the Raiders traded down?
It makes a lot of sense when you consider how weak the top 10 of this class is compared to the depth of the next 40. But by the sixth pick, the Raiders will likely have players they don’t need. The outcome could put them in a prime position to move down.
We will explore a few possible trade partners. For trade value, we will use the classic Jimmy Johnson draft pick value chart. Let’s begin by examining our first scenario.
The San Francisco 49ers
Raiders Receive: Picks No. 11, 43, and 75
49ers Receive: Picks No. 6 and 68
Why it makes sense for the Raiders…
This scenario excludes both quarterbacks, both cornerbacks, and Abdul Carter from consideration. That leaves the Raiders in a position where they might have to choose between drafting a running back or an offensive lineman, neither of which are their current priorities. This trade gives them a chance to slide down a few spots where Jeanty may still be available, but at a much more palatable spot. Even without him, the Raiders could potentially address another need by drafting cornerback Jahdae Barron or a wide receiver. They could then use one of their two second-round picks to still get a quality running back.
Why it makes sense for the 49ers…
Will Campbell. That’s why. San Francisco desperately needs to get better up front and Campbell is by far the most talented lineman in this draft. If he is still there at six, they should be calling the Raiders immediately. The former LSU Tiger could be slotted in anywhere right away but would also be a potential long-term replacement for the aging Trent Williams. Despite the potential cost of a second-round pick, it’s a reasonable investment for a potential future All-Pro. Plus, the value evens out a bit when the Niners swap third-round picks with the Raiders.
If 11 is too far of a drop for Las Vegas, there is another scenario that could keep them from having to move as far back…
The New Orleans Saints
Raiders Receive: Picks No. 9, 71, and 184
Saints Receive: Pick No. 6
Why it makes sense for the Raiders…
This trade would allow Las Vegas to drop a little bit but remain in the top 10. Specifically, it keeps them one pick ahead of the Chicago Bears. If Jeanty is indeed their guy, this move allows them to stay in a good position to get him without reaching. It also would provide them with a little extra draft capital. It is not quite the second-round pick that they would get from San Francisco, but getting extra third- and sixth-round picks is still a solid haul for moving down three spots.
Why it makes sense for the Saints…
There are a few players that New Orleans might be inclined to prioritize. Like the Niners, Will Campbell could very much be in play. They need offensive line help and Campbell played at nearby LSU. However, they could be looking for a bigger prize in Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. If he falls that far, and the Raiders are not interested in him, they could look to him as the heir apparent to Derek Carr.
Speaking of Sanders, there is another team that could make an even bigger climb up to grab him…
The Pittsburgh Steelers
Raiders Receive: Pick No. 21 and Steelers’ 2026 1st rd. pick
Steelers Receive: Pick No. 6
Why it makes sense for the Raiders…
The reason here is pretty simple. The Raiders would get two first-round picks in next year’s draft. All they have to do this year is slide back into the meat of a very good draft class. Even 20 picks in, there should still be a ton of top prospects. The Silver and Black are not one player away, so moving down to stockpile assets makes a lot of sense.
Why it makes sense for the Steelers…
There is only one player that could tempt Pittsburgh to move up: Shedeur Sanders. They definitely cannot roll into next season with Mason Rudolph as the best quarterback on their roster. Currently, the only viable free agent option is Aaron Rodgers, whose availability remains highly uncertain. This could be the one chance the Steelers have to secure a steady franchise quarterback, and they cannot just sit back and hope he falls to 21.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
Raiders GM John Spytek Values The Running Back Position – A Lot