Raiders Pass on QB in Latest Mock Draft, Focus on Skill Players
The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a critical offseason decision regarding their quarterback situation. While signing a veteran in free agency is one route, many believe that drafting and developing a young signal-caller is essential for the first draft of the Pete Carroll era to be considered a success.
However, in his latest mock draft, Chad Reuter of NFL Network takes a different approach. He has the Raiders passing on multiple quarterbacks in the first three rounds, instead selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty and Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden. While both had standout 2024 college seasons, their addition wouldn’t resolve the team’s most pressing issue.
Reuter appears to assume that the Raiders will sign a veteran quarterback, making Jeanty a luxury pick rather than a necessity.
“If the Raiders opt to ride with a veteran quarterback next season—someone like Sam Darnold or Russell Wilson—I’d expect the team’s new regime to use this pick on an offensive weapon,” Reuter wrote. “Vegas missed having a bell-cow back this past year, and Jeanty’s combination of vision, balance, speed, and power project for him to have a highly productive NFL career.”
While it’s true that the Raiders had the league’s worst rushing attack last season, the 2025 draft class is considered one of the deepest for running backs in recent years. The team could likely find a quality back in the middle rounds and instead use an early pick on a quarterback such as Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, or Dillon Gabriel—all of whom were still available in Reuter’s mock.
Raiders Linked to Deebo Samuel Trade
Meanwhile, as Super Bowl LIX festivities unfolded, news broke that San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel had requested a trade. This isn’t the first time Samuel has sought a move, but with his role in the 49ers’ offense diminishing, a separation now seems likely.
The Raiders, currently lacking depth behind Jakobi Meyers at receiver, could be an intriguing landing spot. Due to Samuel’s contract situation, San Francisco is unlikely to command a massive return in a trade.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report proposed a deal in which Las Vegas would send a conditional 2025 third-round pick to the 49ers in exchange for Samuel.
“Las Vegas has the cap space needed to immediately sign Samuel to an extension, and it could then use the rest of its financial flexibility on other areas, like its offensive line and backfield,” Knox wrote.
Adding another layer to the speculation, Knox also noted that Pete Carroll’s former team, the Seattle Seahawks, had interest in drafting Samuel back in 2019.
Is Deebo Samuel Worth Trading For?
Despite his All-Pro pedigree, Samuel’s production has dipped in recent seasons. Since his breakout 2021 campaign, where he recorded 1,405 receiving yards, he hasn’t surpassed 892 receiving yards in any of the last three years. His versatility as a rusher has also declined.
At this stage in his career, Samuel profiles as a strong No. 2 or high-end No. 3 receiver, raising questions about whether a third-round pick is too high of a price. However, with his contract set to expire soon, the Raiders could acquire him and evaluate his fit before committing to an extension.
Las Vegas offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is known for his creative schemes, which could maximize Samuel’s skill set. If the Raiders believe they can unlock his potential, the trade might be worth exploring.
Raiders Expected to Address WR Need Aggressively
Even if they don’t land Samuel, the Raiders are likely to be proactive in upgrading their receiving corps. While Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers provide a solid foundation, adding another high-caliber playmaker could elevate the passing attack.
With no clear path to acquiring a top-tier quarterback this offseason, Las Vegas may instead focus on surrounding an average signal-caller with as much offensive firepower as possible. The team has significant salary cap space, giving them the flexibility to pursue premier skill-position players in both free agency and the draft.
Whether it’s through a trade for Samuel or another acquisition, expect the Raiders to be aggressive in building an offense that can compete in the AFC West.
