The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the 13th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft order, putting them in an unfavorable position if they want one of the top quarterbacks in this year’s class. However, the buzz emerging from the NFL Combine suggests the Raiders are doing everything in their power to change that.
Both head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco have expressed a desire to be aggressive ahead of the NFL Draft. The 2024 class is very deep at quarterback and while Las Vegas isn’t currently well-positioned to take advantage, it’s better to do so now rather than waiting for a 2025 class with poor reviews.
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Fortunately for Las Vegas, there are plenty of trade-up options. The New England Patriots (third overall pick) and Los Angeles Chargers are both open to sliding down, even if it means falling outside the top 10. While it would come at a significant price for Pierce and Telesco, they are already looking into their options.
Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports that the Raiders have explored multiple options for trading up from the 13th overall pick. While the priority is moving into the top 3, Las Vegas has also looked into selections in the 5-7 range.
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Reed isn’t the only one reporting on the Raiders’ interest in making a big jump up. ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler wrote on Sunday that with the Washington Commanders open to offers for the second overall pick, Las Vegas is one of the main teams to watch.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders viewed as potential ‘mover’ in 2024 NFL Draft
The belief is the Raiders are targeting LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has a strong relationship with Pierce. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner even touched on his bond with Pierce during interviews at the NFL Combine, citing their time together at Arizona State.
Even if Las Vegas moved up with Washington, which is unlikely, Daniels would seemingly be their target. However, if the top three quarterbacks come off the board before the Raiders are on the clock, then Michigan Wolverines star J.J. McCarthy could be an option. If Las Vegas is unable to land one of its highest-rated quarterbacks, there’s a much higher chance Aidan O’Connell will be the starting quarterback in 2024.
