The Las Vegas Raiders desperately need a change of fortune after missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season. They are still searching for a franchise quarterback, and the 2025 NFL Draft may be where they find that answer. There’s speculation that the Raiders may trade up to select a signal-caller, but there are also discussions about trading down to build a well-rounded roster before securing their quarterback.
Las Vegas Raiders Needs and Draft Strategy
Quarterback:
The quarterback is the most important position on the field, making it the Raiders’ top priority at the 2025 NFL draft. The Raiders are not satisfied with keeping Desmond Ridder or Aidan O’Connell around as their future starter and are in a bit of a sticky situation with their first-round pick. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are the top two quarterbacks in this draft class and are both expected to be selected before the Raiders pick at No. 6 overall. This leaves Las Vegas with three options.
First, they can trade up to guarantee their preferred quarterback. It would take a hefty package that almost certainly includes the No. 6 overall pick, but it could be worth the price to solidify the position. Second, the Raiders can stand pat and hope one of the two falls to them at No. 6. This alternative is unlikely, but it would cost the Raiders nothing, giving them a chance to secure their quarterback without breaking the bank like the first option. Finally, the Raiders can pass on a quarterback this year and focus on other skill positions. The 2025 NFL Draft is top-heavy in terms of quarterback talent, but several decent options will be available later on.
Wide Receiver:
When the Raiders traded away Davante Adams to the New York Jets midway through last season, they were always going to be in the market for a wide receiver. Tight end Brock Bowers led the team with 1,194 receiving yards, the most by a rookie tight end in NFL history. However, the Raiders still need a true wide receiver to pair with Jakobi Meyers.
Running Back:
Unless it’s someone like Saquon Barkley, NFL teams are hesitant to use a premium draft pick on a running back, as premier talents are often available in free agency each season. The Raiders’ ground game was abysmal last season, with Alexander Mattison leading the way with just 420 rushing yards. The running game will be a lower priority for the Raiders, but there is no shortage of mid-round talent available in this draft.
How many picks do the Las Vegas Raiders have in the 2025 draft?
The Las Vegas Raiders have a total of 10 selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. Their collection of draft picks is highlighted by their No. 6 overall pick, and they also have an additional third-round pick. Their selections this year are as follows:
- 1st Round: 6th Overall
- 2nd Round: 37th Overall
- 3rd Round: 68th Overall
- 3rd Round: 73rd Overall
- 4th Round: 107th Overall
- 5th Round: 144th Overall
- 6th Round: 182nd Overall
- 6th Round: 214th Overall
- 6th Round: 218th Overall
- 7th Round: 224th Overall
The Raiders will have their attention fixed on their early pick, but the sheer number of selections they have could allow them to move up further in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Raiders acquired an extra third-round pick by trading Davante Adams to the New York Jets last season. Adams was unhappy in Las Vegas, and the Raiders will be thrilled with the high draft pick they got in return. Additionally, Las Vegas received two sixth-round compensatory picks for their free-agent departures.
Potential Las Vegas Raiders Draft Picks 2025
1st Round, 1st Overall: Cameron Ward (Quarterback, Miami)
The Raiders could push all their chips into the middle by trading up to draft Cam Ward (or Shedeur Sanders) with the first overall pick. The Titans have publicly stated they are willing to listen to offers for this pick, and the Raiders have the draft capital to make this trade happen. Ward isn’t the best quarterback prospect of the decade, but he has the tools to transform into an NFL superstar. His arm strength is not a concern, and he has shown tremendous potential with his decisive throws over the middle of the field.
2nd Round, 37th Overall: Tre Harris (Wide Receiver, Ole Miss)
Tre Harris is a massive receiver with the potential to become a truly dominant NFL weapon. He is incredibly difficult to take down and has the speed to become a player reminiscent of prime Megatron. Harris logged over 1,000 yards through the air with seven touchdowns last season and would immediately elevate the Las Vegas offense.
5th Round, 144th Overall: Trevor Etienne (Running Back, Georgia)
Trevor Etienne has some off-field issues to work on, but there is no denying his talent in the backfield. The Raiders have a history of drafting players like Etienne with a few red flags, and they could find their answer at running back with a late-round pick. He has championship pedigree from four years at Georgia and could be quite the steal at No. 144 overall.
