If the Las Vegas Raiders are interested in selecting a quarterback early in the draft, they may face challenges securing a top-10 pick. The team might opt to delay addressing the quarterback situation and stick with Gardner Minshew, or they could look at quarterback prospects available later in the draft.
One potential candidate for the Raiders could be Michael Penix Jr., a former quarterback from Washington. However, it may be considered too early to pick him at the No. 13 spot. A proposed trade suggested by Tashan Reed of The Athletic involves the Raiders offering their No. 44, No. 77, and No. 112 picks to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for the Dolphins’ No. 21 and No. 158 picks. This trade would enable the Raiders to draft Penix with the No. 21 pick.
According to Reed’s March 21 mock draft, the Raiders currently have two quarterbacks, Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell, who each started numerous games last season. However, it is unlikely that the team sees either of them as the long-term solution at quarterback. Therefore, the Raiders have taken a bold step by making a trade to acquire Penix.
Standing at 6-2 and 216 pounds, Penix excelled as a standout player at Washington in 2022 and 2023 following injury-ridden seasons at Indiana. Described as possessing a strong arm along with essential qualities like leadership, determination, and competitiveness, Penix’s injury history and limited mobility are noted as potential drawbacks. Despite these concerns, his positive attributes are seen to outweigh the negatives. While he will be 24 as a rookie, there is confidence that with proper development, he can continue to grow. Although he will face competition from Minshew and O’Connell, the hope is for Penix to earn the starting quarterback position for the Raiders in 2024 through his skills and performance.
Is Michael Penix Jr. The Ideal Quarterback Choice for the Las Vegas Raiders?
Michael Penix Jr.’s draft status has experienced significant fluctuations. Initially considered a probable first-round selection, his value took a hit after a lackluster performance in the National Championship game against Michigan, leading to speculation that he could now fall to the second round.
While Penix showcases exceptional passing abilities, there are associated risks. Despite his impressive throwing skills, he will enter the league as a 24-year-old rookie and has a history of enduring two separate torn ACL injuries. Nonetheless, he has a track record of success and possesses remarkable arm talent. Opting for him with the No. 13 pick would involve substantial risk; however, selecting him later in the draft could prove to be a gamble worth considering for the Raiders.
"As tight a spiral as you'll see." – @Movethesticks
Where does Michael Penix Jr. land in April? 👀 pic.twitter.com/QzRSIGactj
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) March 3, 2024
Terrion Arnold Expected to Be Selected at Pick No. 13 Apart from the quarterback position, cornerback is arguably the Raiders’ most pressing requirement. According to Tashan Reed, the team is anticipated to choose Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold with the 13th pick in the draft.
Reed mentioned, “The standout from Alabama possesses all the qualities to start from Day 1 at cornerback, which is a significant consolation prize. He would enhance a formidable secondary (on paper) alongside Jack Jones at the other cornerback position, Nate Hobbs at nickelback, Tre’von Moehrig at free safety, and Marcus Epps at strong safety.”
Securing a potential shutdown cornerback and a franchise quarterback in the initial round would be a significant development for the Raiders. Arnold could potentially be the top cornerback in the draft, but several teams selecting before Las Vegas have more pressing needs. The opportunity to acquire a talent like Arnold at the 13th pick may prove too enticing for the Raiders to overlook.
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