The Las Vegas Raiders are in desperate need of explosive playmakers this offseason after finishing with one of the NFL’s worst scoring offenses and the league’s least productive rushing attack. With glaring holes at quarterback, wide receiver, and running back, new head coach Pete Carroll known for surrounding himself with dynamic talent in Seattle could push for an overhaul on offense.
While defensive improvements are also necessary, Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team predicts the Raiders will go all-in on playmakers in the early rounds of the draft. In his latest mock, he has Las Vegas making a bold move by selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 overall pick.
“Like the Giants, the Raiders could enter the Darnold sweepstakes,” Valentino noted. “Carroll might even explore reuniting with Russell Wilson to bring a run-heavy identity back to the team, much like his Seahawks days. Taking Ashton Jeanty this high might be controversial, but his potential as a franchise cornerstone makes it worthwhile.”
Jeanty’s resume speaks for itself his 2,601 rushing yards in 2024 rank as the second-most in NFL history, making him an instant solution for the Raiders’ ground game struggles. But Valentino didn’t stop there. He also projected Las Vegas to grab Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe in the second round.
Though still developing as a passer, Milroe’s elite athleticism evidenced by his 1,257 rushing yards over the last two seasons could make him a game-changer. If the Raiders secure both Jeanty and Milroe, their offense could experience a complete transformation, going from the league’s worst rushing attack to one of the most dangerous overnight.
