The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a critical juncture in their roster construction, with pressing needs at both the quarterback and wide receiver positions. Given the limitations of addressing both needs with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the team may explore alternative avenues. One potential strategy involves packaging their first-round selection with additional draft assets to acquire a proven quarterback and wide receiver combination from within the NFC West.
To this end, Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report proposed a trade scenario on Wednesday, March 5th. In this proposal, the Raiders would send the Seattle Seahawks their No. 6 overall pick, a third-round pick in 2026, and a swap of seventh-round picks in the following year. In return, the Raiders would acquire wide receiver DK Metcalf and quarterback Geno Smith. This trade would represent a significant move for the Raiders, addressing their immediate needs while potentially laying the groundwork for sustained success.
Las Vegas Raiders Flip 6 For QB/WR With Pete Carroll Ties
“The Raiders aren’t going to part with the sixth overall pick for Metcalf alone — or at least they shouldn’t. But the opportunity to add a proven veteran quarterback and a No. 1 wide receiver could be significantly more tempting — especially given Pete Carroll’s prior relationship with both players,” Davenport wrote. “Las Vegas turbocharges its rebuild. The Seahawks get a pick that could be combined with their own first-rounder to make a play for the first overall pick.”
Metcalf’s public trade request on Wednesday, coupled with his expressed desire to join a contending team, has ignited speculation about his potential destinations. While the Las Vegas Raiders, coming off a three-win season in 2024, may not currently fit that description, the proposed trade scenario presents a compelling opportunity for them. Acquiring both Metcalf and quarterback Geno Smith, in conjunction with Maxx Crosby’s recent three-year contract extension, would undoubtedly elevate the team’s potential in 2025.
Geno Smith, who has earned Pro Bowl honors in consecutive seasons (2022 and 2023), is entering the final year of his contract.
Similarly, Metcalf, a two-time Pro Bowler (2020 and 2023), is still relatively young, set to turn 28 late next season. These acquisitions would provide the Raiders with proven talent, potentially accelerating their rebuilding process and making them a more attractive destination for other free agents and future draft picks.