Could Russell Wilson soon be the new king of the Las Vegas Strip?
The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a franchise-defining decision as they seek their future franchise quarterback in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. While everyone from general manager Tom Telesco to head coach Antonio Pierce have said they will be aggressive in the draft to upgrade the position, there is no guarantee they will be able to do so. If they’re unable to grab one of the top four or five quarterbacks in the draft, what will they do?
Recent rumors and NFL chatter points to one player who may have caught their attention as a solution: former Super Bowl champion and MVP Russell Wilson.
Released this week by the Denver Broncos, Wilson could be an intriguing option for the Raiders if they fail to move up in the draft. Wilson, who had his worst statistical year in 2022, bounced back under coach Sean Payton with a 66.4% completion rate, 26 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. The Broncos owe Wilson $39 million for 2024, minus whatever his new team pays him.
Even though Denver and Payton weren’t a fit, the quarterback is known for his leadership, agility and ability to make game-changing plays; qualities that could elevate the quarterback play in Las Vegas until they get their franchise quarterback of the future.
The talk of Wilson’s decline has been greatly exaggerated. Of course, he’s not the same quarterback he was from 2017-19 when he threw for over 12,000 yards and 100 touchdowns, but he’s got plenty left in the tank and would be an upgrade over second-year pro Aidan O’Connell. The preference, and priority, should be for Telesco, Pierce and the Raiders to move up as far as they can in the draft to get a young quarterback — if that’s possible. If it’s not, they will need a veteran who can compete for the starting role.
A Russell Wilson-Las Vegas Raiders deal makes sense for Antonio Pierce
Russel Wilson’s impressive track record in the NFL speaks for itself. While the odds seemingly favored him going to the Pittsburgh Steelers, they reportedly are intent on sticking with Kenny Pickett as their starter. The Las Vegas Raiders recognize their need for a quarterback and Wilson’s availability offers an opportunity to bring in an established winner without the uncertainties of developing a young player through drafting.
Yes, Wilson comes with some eccentricities. He didn’t mesh with Payton in Denver but it could work better with Pierce in Las Vegas. As Pierce has repeatedly spoken of the “Raider Way.” Established by late owner Al Davis during the franchises heyday, the “Raider Way” is all about allowing players be who they are. It was why the team rebounded under Pierce the final nine weeks of 2023 after the firing of Josh McDaniels and why they all went to bat for him to be the permanent choice for head coach.
Given the Las Vegas Raiders draft position at No. 13, it may not allow them to secure the quarterback prospect they want or believe will be the future of their team. In that case, Wilson emerges as a more appealing choice. The quarterback free agent market, outside of Kirk Cousins, is not impressive. The other top two options would be the resurgent Baker Mayfield and journeyman Gardner Minshew. Wilson on a cheap deal is just as appealing, if not more, than the other options.
With other teams eyeing quarterback upgrades, Las Vegas might miss out on landing elite talents in the draft. Opting for a player like Wilson could bridge this gap and instantly enhance the most important position in the game.
Wilsons impressive career, marked by a Super Bowl win and numerous Pro Bowl appearances, proves that he is more than just a placeholder and quick fix but a quarterback who can truly lift a team’s performance. His wealth of experience and strong leadership qualities would greatly benefit the Raiders who have shown promise but struggled to maintain stability on offense. And even though O’Connell has shown promise and the ability to win games in the NFL, Wilsons knack for extending plays with his mobility, combined with his passing skills, would seamlessly complement an offense stocked with dynamic playmakers.
Russell Wilson can be the Raiders “Mr. Right Now” at the right price
Signing Russell Wilson also would come with another possible benefit: he could come cheap. With Denver on the hook for most of his salary in 2024, the Raiders can get a quarterback upgrade while also sticking it to their division rival. The Raiders could get him on a short-term deal which allows them to continue to plan for and execute their long-term plan at quarterback. This financial freedom also would allow them to continue to build their offensive line and bolster their already surging defense.
With Wilson leaving the Denver nightmare behind him, a change of scenery and a new system that aligns with his strengths could potentially revitalize his game. The Las Vegas Raiders, boasting a team on the verge of the playoffs and a passionate fan base hungry for success, might offer an ideal setting for Wilson to showcase his top form once again.
While the idea of Wilson joining the Raiders poses challenges, such as adjusting to a team dynamic both on and off the field, the potential benefits outweigh any risks. Wilson not only brings skills but also a winning attitude to a team in need of leadership on offense. His experience in high stakes games and ability to excel under pressure would be invaluable for a squad aiming to transition from playoff contenders to title contenders.
As the draft nears and the quarterback landscape evolves, the Raiders should give thought to signing Wilson as a viable Plan B should they be unable to acquire their top target in the NFL Draft. Having him lead the team could pave a path to reaching the playoffs and allow them more time to find the quarterback of the future with someone who can help elevate the team from Day One.