While the Minnesota Vikings might not have reached their ultimate goal last season, the resurgence of Sam Darnold was one of the brighter spots on their radar. This turnaround for Darnold has sparked intrigue as teams across the league enter the 2025 NFL season on the lookout for their own version of a career-revived quarterback, especially in a year where the draft class isn’t teeming with standout QB talent.
Raiders on the Hunt: Zach Wilson in the Crosshairs
Enter the Las Vegas Raiders, a team yearning for a quarterback solution. With Pete Carroll stepping in as head coach, securing the right talent under center is crucial for reigniting the Raiders’ fortunes. All signs are pointing towards Zach Wilson as the potential new face in Vegas.
Decoding the Raiders’ Quarterback Puzzle
Looking ahead to 2025, the Raiders are bound to make a move for a new quarterback. With choices like Aidan O’Connell, Gardner Minshew, or Desmond Ridder, the current options fall short of inspiring confidence based on last season’s performances.
Pete Carroll’s arrival has naturally stirred talks of a reunion with Russell Wilson from their Seattle Seahawks days. However, at 36, Russell Wilson’s prime years might be behind him. There’s also chatter about Shedeur Sanders being a potential draft target given his ties to Tom Brady, but the Raiders might be wiser to explore other avenues with their first-round pick.
Carroll’s knack for maximizing the potential of athletic quarterbacks who thrive outside traditional offensive structures could make Zach Wilson an intriguing fit. Wilson possesses a skill set reminiscent of what Carroll successfully harnessed in Seattle.
What Makes Zach Wilson a Fit?
Zach Wilson’s journey in the NFL has been a rollercoaster, but the talent that made him a second-overall pick is undeniable. His stint with the New York Jets may raise an eyebrow; however, history hasn’t been particularly kind to quarterbacks under that franchise’s helm.
Last season, Wilson sharpened his skills with the Denver Broncos under the watchful eye of Sean Payton. Reports suggest Wilson won’t be returning to Denver, forming the opening for potential new beginnings. While there’s buzz about the Kansas City Chiefs courting him as a backup to Patrick Mahomes, Las Vegas might offer a more enticing narrative for Wilson.
During his preseason outings with the Broncos, Wilson flashed signs of growth. He completed a reliable 63.6% of his passes, amassed 397 yards, and tossed three touchdowns, all while avoiding turnovers. Improved composure and a knack for making smarter reads highlighted his performance, coupled with his well-noted athleticism, enabling off-script plays and unexpected yardage gains.
At just 25, and approaching 26, Wilson represents a valuable, cost-effective option for the Raiders. Here’s a young quarterback with potential to enhance Las Vegas’s offensive dynamics, offering them a much-needed breath of fresh air and possibly a significant step forward in their quest for success.
