First-Round Selection: 6th Overall

The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves with nearly $100 million in salary cap space, positioning them for significant roster changes ahead of the draft. Only the New England Patriots have more financial flexibility this offseason, according to Over The Cap. It would be surprising if the new general manager, John Spytek, does not pursue bold strategies to enhance the team through free agency.

In addition to their original draft picks, which includes the 6th overall selection, the Raiders also hold a third-round pick acquired from the Jets as part of the trade involving Davante Adams. The team is also expected to receive two compensatory selections in the draft.

While there are noticeable gaps in both the offensive and defensive lines, as well as a pressing need for more offensive talent, the most critical concern lies at the quarterback position. With restricted free agent Desmond Ridder, Las Vegas currently has three quarterbacks who have each started over 17 NFL games. However, it’s uncertain if Pete Carroll and the new coaching staff have confidence in any of them. As a result, it’s natural to speculate about quarterback prospects in the upcoming draft.

The Raiders have the capability to trade up from the 6th spot if a promising opportunity arises. They might even opt to select a player at a different position high in the draft and later target a quarterback if they feel a viable option is still available toward the end of the first round. Names like Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart could be on their radar.

There are rumors linking new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to his Ohio State quarterback from last season, Will Howard. However, Howard does not yet appear to be a strong candidate for a first-round pick. It’s very plausible that Las Vegas might consider alternative routes to solidify their quarterback situation. It’s worth noting that Carroll once entrusted a third-round rookie, Russell Wilson, with starting duties, which turned out to be a wise choice. Nevertheless, I view the current scenario a bit differently, as Carroll was in Year 3 of his rebuilding process in Seattle when Wilson joined. Unless the Raiders make a significant acquisition for a veteran quarterback this offseason, utilizing a first-round pick on a quarterback seems like a strong possibility.