The Las Vegas Raiders have an opportunity to secure their future franchise quarterback in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. With the departure of Jimmy Garoppolo earlier in the offseason and the signing of Gardner Minshew to a lucrative two-year contract, there’s a possibility that Minshew, at 27 years old, could serve as a transitional quarterback while the Raiders groom their chosen signal-caller from this year’s draft, possibly as early as the 24th overall pick.
According to a mock draft by former NFL general manager Rick Spielman on CBS Sports, the Raiders could trade back with the Dallas Cowboys and select University of Washington standout Michael Penix Jr. as the fifth quarterback off the board in the first round. Penix Jr. had an outstanding collegiate season in 2023, leading his team to the College Football Playoff and the National Championship Game, throwing for nearly 5,000 yards and showcasing both passing prowess and mobility.
While Penix Jr. has had injury setbacks in his college career, his potential upside is significant. Despite concerns about his delivery and release, analysts believe he possesses a strong arm and demonstrated an ability to make deep throws effectively. With proper development, he could become a valuable asset for the Raiders, particularly given his proficiency in deep passing, which aligns well with the offensive scheme and the presence of star receiver Davante Adams.
Head coach Antonio Pierce has expressed confidence in this year’s quarterback draft class, highlighting the talents of not only Penix Jr. but also other notable prospects like J.J. McCarthy and Bo Nix. While the Raiders may not have access to the top-tier quarterbacks in the draft, they appear open to the idea of selecting one in the first round, acknowledging the importance of finding the right fit for their system and considering various factors beyond pure talent.
Overall, the Raiders have positioned themselves to potentially secure a promising quarterback for their future, with the draft presenting an array of viable options to consider.
