With the NFL Draft just a day away, there is a lot of excitement surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders and their search for a new quarterback. The team is looking to upgrade its signal-caller position and is considering various options, including making a big trade to move up in the draft order. ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler have reported that the Raiders are targeting quarterback prospects but may face challenges in executing their plan.
Dan Graziano mentioned that the team is interested in reuniting Jayden Daniels with his coach from Arizona State, Antonio Pierce, Las Vegas’ new head coach.
Read more: Growing buzz suggests Raiders could make surprise choice with 13th overall pick
“The Raiders are hoping to draft Daniels and bring him together with coach Antonio Pierce, who coached him during his time at Arizona State,” Graziano wrote on Wednesday.
Raiders need “miracle” to snag Daniels
If Las Vegas were to pull that off, they may need a miracle. The Washington Commanders are also eyeing Daniels at the No. 2 spot and have been public about not being interested in dealing the pick. Graziano also reported that the Raiders have even discussed acquiring the No. 4 pick from the Arizona Cardinals. It seems like the Cardinals are taking calls but are unwilling to deal with the pick until draft night when they see how the board falls above them, Graziano says.
Fowler reiterated that Daniels and the Raiders have a mutual interest and that there is nothing new.
“I’ve heard that Daniels is keen on playing for Pierce and the Raiders,” Fowler said, pointing out there’s not a high probability it happens. “It’s highly unlikely for Las Vegas to move up from No. 13 to No. 2 at this point.”
Penix, Nix and Rattler are also on Tom Telesco’s radar
The Raiders are exploring other quarterback possibilities in addition to Daniels. Graziano indicates that if Washington selects Daniels at No. 2, the Raiders’ desire for the Cardinals’ No. 4 pick would fizzle. Instead, they might focus on quarterback prospects like Michael Penix Jr., and other options may be available later in the draft.
There’s also a belief that the Silver and Black have a deep interest in Penix. If quarterbacks start getting picked quickly and the Raiders sense a need to trade up to avoid missing out, there’s talk that both the Chargers at No. 5 and the Titans at No. 7 are open to trading down, Graziano said.
Fowler discusses Las Vegas’ overall game plan, mentioning that they are considering quarterbacks, including Spencer Rattler from South Carolina. According to him,
“Penix, Nix, and even Spencer Rattler from South Carolina could all be picks for the Raiders as the draft progresses,” Fowler said.
The Raiders are focused on improving their quarterback situation through a mix of high-profile trade discussions and backup plans for draft picks. The next few hours will be crucial as they navigate trade negotiations and monitor their draft board. Raider Nation, get ready—this draft will significantly impact your team’s offense’s future.
Related: NFL insider reveals fascinating split between coaches, scouts on QB Michael Penix Jr.