During the offseason, the Raiders have been rumored to be interested in every available quarterback, but they only ended up adding career backup Gardner Minshew. There have been speculations surrounding Jayden Daniels and Michel Penix Jr. being drafted in the first round, but a recent report from Jordan Reid of ESPN suggests that the Raiders are now shifting their focus to drafting an offensive tackle or cornerback. This might come as a shock to fans, but the reality is that obtaining a top quarterback was unlikely, so the team should prioritize filling their other needs. In a recent article from ESPN titled “2024 NFL Draft: Latest news, questions for all 32 team picks” Reid states the following:
“What we’re hearing about the Raiders’ draft: Yeah, expect offensive line or cornerback at No. 13 overall. At Alabama’s pro day last month, Pierce seemed to be keeping a close eye on Terrion Arnold, who would give Vegas a shutdown corner on the outside. But sources with the team have also suggested to me that the Raiders could add another tackle to pair with Kolton Miller. Taliese Fuaga is a natural match based on the hole at right tackle and play style, but don’t dismiss JC Latham at this spot, either.”
Report: Raiders Unlikely To Select Quarterback With First-Round Pick
Is Quarterback Completely Off the Table?
During the first round, it seems unlikely that Vegas will find a suitable trade partner to move up or down. However, in the second round, quarterback prospects Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix could potentially land with the Raiders. Even in later rounds, Tulane’s Michael Pratt and South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler offer talent.
There is a quarterback that could be a steal if the Raiders decide to pursue him in later rounds – Joe Milton from Tennessee. Despite having the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the class, his inconsistency has lowered his draft stock. Sitting behind Minshew and O’Connell for a year could be incredibly beneficial for his development.
What Is the Biggest Need For Raiders?
The Raiders have a tough decision to make with the 13th pick in the upcoming draft, as they have needs at both offensive tackle and cornerback positions. Antonio Pierce has previously stated that they were drafting a quarterback, offensive tackle, or cornerback, but it seems that the latter two positions are now the main focus. With Jermaine Eluemunor having joined the New York Giants and Thayer Munford likely to be just a backup, the Raiders could look to draft Olu Fashanu or JC Latham to strengthen their offensive tackle position.
However, the cornerback room is also in need of reinforcement, especially after the departure of Amik Robertson to the Detroit Lions. The Raiders may have a chance to draft any of the top cornerbacks available at pick 13, which would be difficult to pass up. Ultimately, both positions are important, but cornerback might be the greater need for the team.
What Does This Mean For the Current Raiders Quarterbacks
Since the start of the quarterback search, Pierce has made it clear O’Connell will compete for the starting job no matter what. O’Connell has an advantage as he is familiar with the roster and coaching staff, and would most likely have their vote of confidence. Meanwhile, Minshew also benefits from this situation, if he beats out O’Connell in camp, he gets another season as an NFL starter. The Raiders will draft a quarterback; it’s just a matter of when they will do so. Unless there is a change of heart or a drastic fall of one of the top five quarterbacks, the Raiders will probably roll with O’Connell and Minshew in 2024.
Main Photo: Nathan Ray Seebeck – USA Today Sports
