In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders are presented with a compelling strategic decision: whether to trade down from their sixth overall pick or, conversely, trade up later in the first round.
According to Bruce Feldman’s recent mock draft for The Athletic, the Raiders opt for a dual approach, securing a top-tier defensive talent early and then aggressively maneuvering to acquire a coveted wide receiver.
Las Vegas Raiders Draft Edge In First Round And WR
At the sixth pick, the Raiders draft Jalon Walker, an edge rusher from Georgia and the 2024 Butkus Award winner. Feldman acknowledges the speculation surrounding Ashton Jeanty, but Walker’s exceptional talent proves too enticing to pass up.
“His production, explosiveness and character have UGA and opposing coaches gushing,” Feldman notes. Walker’s versatility, capable of impacting the game as both an off-ball linebacker and an edge rusher, draws comparisons to Will Anderson. “He is a problem on first and second down and a major problem on third downs,” an SEC offensive line coach remarked. “He was the best defensive player we saw all year. He’s got stuff in him like Will Anderson. Very similar. He’s so explosive. I think this guy is a complete stud.”
Following the selection of Walker, the Raiders execute a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, sending their 37th overall pick and a fourth-round pick (108th overall) to acquire the 32nd overall pick. This move allows them to secure Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. Egbuka’s impressive collegiate career, highlighted by his 2022 season with 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns, makes him a highly sought-after prospect.
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“He’s as polished as they come,” a Big Ten defensive backs coach said. “Terrific route runner who sets guys up really well. I think he’s better in the slot than outside, but he can do both. He has a great feel for space. He’s also bigger and stronger than you think.”
The Raiders’ aggressive trade-up ensures they land Egbuka, preventing the risk of losing him to another team early in the second round. This move also reunites Egbuka with new Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, who coached him at Ohio State.
Furthermore, selecting Egbuka in the first round grants the Raiders the valuable fifth-year contract option, extending their control over a potentially elite player. The combined acquisitions of Jalon Walker and Emeka Egbuka represent a significant boost to the Raiders’ roster, addressing critical needs on both sides of the ball.