2025 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders QB

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Post on Dec 24, 2024

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2025 NFL Mock Draft: Will the Raiders Find Their Franchise QB?

The Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation remains a significant question mark heading into the 2024 season and beyond. While Jimmy Garoppolo offers a veteran presence, the long-term solution at the most crucial position remains elusive. This mock draft explores a potential scenario for the Raiders in the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing on the possibility of selecting their next franchise quarterback.

The Current Landscape:

The Raiders' 2024 season will be pivotal in determining their draft strategy. A successful season, defying expectations, could push them down the draft board, limiting their access to top quarterback prospects. Conversely, a disappointing year could position them ideally to select a highly touted quarterback. Garoppolo's performance and the development of younger players on the roster will significantly influence this.

Scenario: A Top-5 Pick

Let's imagine a scenario where the Raiders' season falls short of expectations, leading to a high draft pick in 2025. This mock draft assumes they secure a top-five selection.

2025 NFL Mock Draft (Top 5):

1. Arizona Cardinals: Caleb Williams (QB, USC) - It's hard to imagine a scenario where a quarterback like Caleb Williams falls to the second pick, assuming the current trajectory of his success continues.
2. Houston Texans: Drake Maye (QB, UNC) - Another highly-touted QB prospect, Maye would likely be a highly sought-after pick. His passing accuracy and athleticism would improve Houston's team.
3. Indianapolis Colts: Jordan Travis (QB, Florida State) - This is an excellent landing spot for a potential pro-ready quarterback, providing the Colts with long-term stability.
4. Las Vegas Raiders: Austin Armstrong (QB, hypothetical prospect) - In this scenario, the Raiders select Austin Armstrong, a fictitious but representative quarterback prospect. Armstrong is projected as a pro-style passer with strong arm talent, good decision-making abilities, and high football IQ. He exhibits good pocket presence and is known for his accurate deep throws. While this pick is based on a hypothetical prospect, it's meant to encapsulate the type of QB prospect the Raiders would likely target in this scenario.
5. Atlanta Falcons: Will Anderson Jr. (EDGE, Alabama) - The Falcons solidify their defense with a premier pass rusher to complement their quarterback.

Why Armstrong (or a similar prospect) makes sense for the Raiders:

• Pro-Style Passer: Armstrong embodies the qualities of a traditional pocket quarterback, capable of reading defenses, making quick decisions, and executing a complex offensive scheme.
• Strong Arm: His strong arm talent allows him to push the ball downfield and test defenses.
• High Football IQ: Having a high football IQ is crucial for NFL success. This allows a quarterback to quickly grasp complex concepts and make better in-game decisions.
• Leadership Potential: The Raiders need a leader on the field, someone that can inspire and unite the offense.

Other Considerations:

This mock draft is just one possible outcome. Other talented quarterbacks could emerge, altering this projection. The Raiders' coaching staff and front office's philosophy on quarterback development will also influence their decision.

Conclusion:

The 2025 NFL Draft presents a crucial opportunity for the Las Vegas Raiders to address their long-term quarterback needs. Securing a top-five pick would significantly increase their chances of landing a franchise quarterback. A player like our hypothetical Austin Armstrong, or another prospect with similar attributes, would represent a strong foundation for the future. However, a successful 2024 season could alter this strategy significantly, making the 2024 season a critical one for the future of the Raiders. The path to success will depend heavily on the performance of current players, coaching decisions, and the overall landscape of the NFL.