It’s been a tough week for the Las Vegas Raiders following the announcement that Ben Johnson chose to become the Chicago Bears’ head coach. Currently without a head coach, quarterback, or general manager, the team still possesses the resources to rebuild quickly.
The Raiders hold all of their original draft picks and an additional third-round selection acquired from the New York Jets in the Davante Adams trade. Moreover, they are likely to gain more picks in the near future.
Last offseason, the Raiders lost cornerback Amik Robertson to the Detroit Lions and defensive lineman Bilal Nichols to the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. As a result, they are in line to receive a couple of compensatory draft picks.
Over the Cap projects the Raiders will receive two sixth-round compensatory picks for the departures of Bilal Nichols and Amik Robertson. While these aren’t highly valuable selections, having extra draft capital is always beneficial, especially when it comes at no cost.
If this projection holds, the Raiders would enter the 2025 NFL Draft with 10 total picks, barring any trades. This abundance of assets could provide them with the flexibility to trade up for a quarterback if they choose to do so.
Future of the Raiders Is Unclear
The Raiders may have fallen short in persuading Ben Johnson to join as head coach, but they should still be an attractive option for general manager candidates. With over $90 million in salary cap space, 10 draft picks, and the freedom to shape the roster, the opportunity is there for a GM to leave their mark.
However, the team’s direction remains uncertain until a new general manager is in place. Las Vegas urgently needs someone who excels in the draft, as poor draft classes have plagued the franchise for two decades.
Tom Telesco delivered a strong first draft during his time with the Raiders, yet he was still let go, raising questions about whether drafting well is enough to succeed in this role. For now, the franchise is difficult to evaluate, especially with Tom Brady seemingly calling the shots in a leadership role he’s never held before.
Raiders Desperately Need a QB
If the Raiders had even a moderately promising young quarterback, Ben Johnson might have accepted the head coaching job. His decision to turn down Las Vegas underscores how crucial it is to have a hopeful outlook at quarterback.
The Raiders enjoyed stability at the position for nearly a decade with Derek Carr but have badly mismanaged his replacement. Signing Jimmy Garoppolo in 2023 and Gardner Minshew in 2024 ranks among the worst free-agent decisions of the past two years.
At some point, the Raiders must address the quarterback position early in the draft. While this year’s class may lack top-tier talent, the team needs a clear plan for the future. Without a significant upgrade at quarterback, it’s unlikely they’ll find sustained success, regardless of who the head coach or general manager is.
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