The Las Vegas Raiders have made significant moves this offseason, enhancing their roster with the addition of head coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith, who was traded from the Seahawks.
Now, as the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the Raiders are looking to bolster their future even further by exploring one of the draft’s top quarterback prospects.
According to reports, Las Vegas has scheduled a visit with Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders early next week, signaling their continued interest in securing a potential franchise quarterback.
With the sixth overall pick in the upcoming draft, the Raiders have been diligently scouting quarterbacks, having already invited several draft hopefuls to their facilities.
This interest in Sanders comes as a bit of a surprise, especially considering that just recently, Smith inked a two-year, $85.5 million extension, solidifying his position as the team’s starting quarterback for the foreseeable future.
The extension guarantees Smith an average of $43 million per year, raising questions about the Raiders’ intentions moving forward.
Despite this, the team is keeping its options open, with Sanders viewed by many as the second-best quarterback in this year’s class.
While Cam Ward is widely considered the top quarterback prospect and expected to be selected first overall by the Titans, Sanders remains an intriguing option for Las Vegas.
While Sanders could be picked by teams like the Cleveland Browns or New York Giants, if he slips past them, he could land with the Raiders, providing them with another young quarterback to develop alongside Smith.
It’s hard to ignore the flirting that has taken place between Sanders and the Raiders over the past year. It’s also no secret that team minority owner Tom Brady is a big fan of the polarizing quarterback.
While it may seem unusual for Las Vegas to double down on quarterbacks with Smith already in place, there’s precedence for such a strategy.
The Atlanta Falcons, for instance, selected Michael Penix Jr. in last year’s draft, even with the high-priced Kirk Cousins already in place.
Smith, who is certainly expected to enter training camp as the unquestioned starter, could find himself facing competition from a highly drafted rookie, which might affect team chemistry and development.
The Raiders’ decision ultimately hinges on whether they view Sanders as their potential long-term franchise quarterback.
If they’re not fully convinced, taking a gamble on him, especially so high in the draft, could prove to be a risky move.
At the same time, the Raiders have other areas in need of improvement. Aside from quarterback, the team must focus on upgrading their roster, particularly with playmakers who can contribute immediately.
Draft experts have frequently linked Las Vegas with standout running back Ashton Jeanty, who could make an immediate impact and serve as a cornerstone of the offense for years to come.
Given their current rebuild, the Raiders might be better served by using their high draft pick to select a versatile playmaker like Jeanty, rather than investing in another quarterback.
However, if Sanders is truly viewed as a long-term solution, the Raiders could be tempted to make a bold move and grab him with their No. 6 pick.
What are your thoughts on Sanders visiting the Raiders? … Can you see Vegas falling in love with him and snatching him up on draft night???
