The Las Vegas Raiders enter the 2025 NFL Draft in a different position than the previous year, no longer facing an immediate need for a franchise quarterback. In 2024, the team adopted a “best player available” strategy in the first round, resulting in the acquisition of Brock Bowers, who went on to become an Offensive Rookie of the Year finalist.
This year, holding the sixth overall pick, the Raiders’ draft focus appears to be evolving. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, general manager John Spytek has dedicated “substantial time doing homework” on Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. However, there are indications that other voices within the Raiders’ front office advocate for prioritizing an offensive lineman.
Las Vegas Raiders NFL Draft Options 1 and 2
Russini reports, “The Raiders, led by first-time general manager John Spytek, spent substantial time doing homework on Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, but strong cases are being made in their draft room to go offensive line instead.”
While Spytek has shown considerable interest in Jeanty, his background includes a history of drafting offensive linemen, a trend that dates back to his tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This history suggests a potential lean towards bolstering the offensive line. Ultimately, the Raiders’ decision with the sixth overall pick may again reflect a “best player available” approach, which could still address a critical need, similar to last season’s selection of Bowers.
The Raiders’ offensive line remains a significant area of concern. The team tied for the eighth-most sacks allowed in the NFL last season and is projected to have a below-average offensive line in 2025. While adding a dynamic talent like Jeanty to the offense is an enticing prospect, reinforcing the offensive line is arguably a more pressing priority, particularly given potential opportunities to upgrade the running back position in later rounds of the draft.
The projected offensive linemen are Will Campbell, Kelvin Banks, and Armand Membou.
Las Vegas Raiders 3rd Option — Trade Up
Russini also reported that the Raiders are among the teams that will be looking to trade up “if the player they want is available.”
This would mean that the Raiders have a golden goose that is expected to go in the top 5. Who exactly that is remains the biggest question. There are only three consensus Top 5 picks in this year’s draft — Cam Ward, Abdul Carter, and Travis Huter. Hunter seems to be the best fit for the team if a trade-up is in the cards.
The likeliest trade partner in this scenario would be the Cleveland Browns or the New York Giants, depending on how excited by Schedeur Sanders they are. He will still be available at six if they trade back.