Raiders Mailbag: Exploring Realistic Draft Trades & Considering Michael Penix
The Las Vegas Raiders are facing some tough decisions as they approach the NFL draft. Antonio Pierce, the team’s linebackers coach, has been scouting potential quarterbacks and exploring the possibility of moving up in the draft. However, it seems unlikely that they will be able to trade up from their current position at number 13. The top three picks are expected to be quarterbacks, with Caleb Williams going to the Chicago Bears at number one.
One prospect that Pierce has been closely watching is Jayden Daniels, a quarterback from LSU. Pierce and Daniels have a close relationship from their time together at Arizona State. However, it remains uncertain if the Raiders will be able to draft Daniels. There is also speculation about other quarterbacks like Drake Maye from North Carolina and J.J. McCarthy from Michigan. McCarthy, in particular, has garnered attention due to his impressive physical traits and the endorsement of his former coach, Jim Harbaugh.
Another quarterback prospect, Michael Penix Jr. from Washington, has also caught the Raiders’ attention. Penix is currently ranked as the fifth-best quarterback in the class and has impressed scouts with his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. He also showcased his speed with an impressive 40-yard dash time.
However, there are concerns about Penix’s injury history. Despite this, many believe that he will still be a first-round pick due to his strong throwing ability and positive medical evaluations.
In the Raiders’ mailbag, fans expressed their opinions on the team’s draft plans. One fan was excited about the potential defensive players and offensive linemen in this year’s draft. They expressed hope that the team would not select Penix due to his injury history. However, others argued that the Raiders should take a chance on a quarterback and give them a shot at becoming a franchise player.
There were also questions about other positions the Raiders should target in the draft. Some fans suggested taking a top cornerback with the 13th pick, while others proposed drafting a right tackle or guard in the second round and trading up for Spencer Rattler, a quarterback from Oklahoma.
Fans also inquired about the team’s decision-making process and whether financial factors played a role. The author dismissed these concerns, stating that the team’s owner, Mark Davis, has been willing to spend money on players and coaches. The decisions made have been based on factors such as performance and fit within the team.
Other topics discussed in the mailbag included potential kick returners, drafting additional wide receivers, contract extensions for defensive players, and the possibility of drafting Shedeur Sanders as the team’s future quarterback.
In conclusion, the Raiders are facing some tough decisions in this year’s draft. While they may not be able to trade up for a top quarterback, there are still several talented prospects available. The team must carefully evaluate their options and consider factors such as injury history and long-term potential. Ultimately, the draft will play a crucial role in determining the team’s future success.