While the Las Vegas Raiders have been linked to several veterans on the upcoming free agent market, a new report suggests they are also looking hard at potential options on the trade block. On Friday afternoon, The Athletic NFL insider Dianna Russini claimed the team is exploring veteran QB additions and that “includes the possibility of trading for a current starting QB.”
Since the Raiders have a boatload of salary cap space, going after free agents like Sam Darnold, Russell Wilson, or Aaron Rodgers seems very likely. However, they could feel there is a better option on the trade block. With that in mind, we speculate on five starting signal callers from last season that could soon be a target for the Las Vegas Raiders.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders rumors reveal strategy to find starting QB, potential Pro Bowl trade target
Kirk Cousins
A ruptured Achilles definitely took something out of four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins. He looked like a shell of himself in his first season with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. It is why he lost his starting job to rookie Michael Penix late in the season. However, another year removed from the injury could be reason to expect better results in 2025.
With his contract having outs after next season, Las Vegas may feel he’s worth the risk for one season. Especially if they have to give up very little in a trade.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders could be plotting blockbuster trade in 2025 NFL Draft
Derek Carr
After moving on from Derek Carr following the 2022 season, the Raiders and the four-time Pro Bowler haven’t been the same. The 33-year-old did not want to leave Vegas. However, with a new regime running the show, a reunion can’t be completely ruled out if the Saints are willing to trade him.
He is still only 33 and if the team really wants a veteran QB to help make them a playoff contender in 2025 while also mentoring a rookie QB, Carr would be an interesting option that would excite many in the Raiders fan base.
Related: Draft guru predicts Las Vegas Raiders will select franchise quarterback — but not in first round
Anthony Richardson
There have been no rumors about Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson being on the trade block. However, he has disappointed on the field and in the locker room over his first two seasons. If a recent rumor of the Colts pursuing Sam Darnold in free agency turns into an actual signing, then Richardson might be up for grabs.
A case could be made he is better than the prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft and he wouldn’t cost them a first round pick in a trade. Maybe new head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly believe they can get more out of him than Indy did.
Geno Smith
Geno Smith was one of the best stories in the NFL three seasons ago when he earned Comeback Player of the Year honors for the Seattle Seahawks. However, he has regressed a bit since earning Pro Bowl honors for the first time in 2022. But he is still a very competent starting quarterback and a recent rumor linked Las Vegas to a potential pursuit of Smith in the weeks ahead.
He would be an upgrade in 2025 and at a very affordable rate. If it doesn’t work out, he comes off the books after next season and could be an impactful mentor to a rookie QB.
Related: Execs predict Las Vegas Raiders pass on QB in Round 1 of draft for overdue Josh Jacobs replacement
Will Levis
There is a real chance the Tennessee Titans will trade out of the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft and select a QB later in Round 1. If they do, that puts Will Levis on the chopping block. Head coach Pete Carroll is a big believer that good coaching can help elevate any player. The 2023 second round pick has talent. The Raiders could feel he just needs the right system and players around him to reach his potential. It would not cost Las Vegas much in terms of trade assets and his contract is very cheap the next two years.
Related: Six bold Las Vegas Raiders free agency predictions, including signing Sam Darnold and Najee Harris
Las Vegas Raiders trade prediction
If the Las Vegas Raiders add a veteran QB this offseason, it is more likely to be Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers in free agency. However, if they did land one on the trade market, Geno Smith and Derek Carr are probably favorites to be wearing silver-and-black next season.