Who’s being watched after the NFL Combine, according to Raiders Mailbag?
“Are we concentrating on acquiring a better quarterback, I wonder? It doesn’t feel fair to choose WR with the No. 13 selection.”
Both General Manager Tom Telesco and Head Coach Antonio Pierce have stated openly that they intend to add another quarterback to the squad this summer.
It would be a stretch to say they’re searching for a “better” quarterback right now, given that Aidan O’Connell concluded his rookie season with a 3-1 record, eight throwing touchdowns, and no interceptions in the final four games. Pierce mentioned that O’Connell will get an opportunity to vie for the starting position.
At the Combine, the Raiders allegedly had interviews with a number of quarterbacks, including Michael Penix Jr., Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and Spencer Rattler.
The only scenario in which I can envision selecting a wide receiver with the No. 13 selection is if Rome Odunze or Marvin Harrison Jr. completely collapse, which is highly improbable.
Pierce noted the need at the Scouting Combine for a number of positions, including cornerback, offensive line, and defensive line. I anticipate that the Silver and Black will keep their eyes on these spots the whole draft.
With many players from the offensive line standing out in Indianapolis last week, it appears that this draft class has a deeper position group overall. Frank Crum, a Group of Five tackle from Wyoming, had an outstanding performance. He was the quickest offensive lineman in the 40-yard dash, clocking in at 4.94. Two-time national champion Mason McCormick of South Dakota State and FCS prospect C.J. Hanson of Holy Cross both appear to be excellent Day 3 selections.
Given that the Hawkeyes gave up the fourth fewest points per game in the country in 2023—14.8—to opposing attacks, this is a legitimate concern.
As was already established, Cooper DeJean was maybe the best defensive player at the school last season, and the Raiders might be seeking to add some guys to the secondary. During his previous two seasons, the Iowa cornerback amassed seven interceptions and thirteen pass deflections, which helped him earn a unanimous selection to the All-American team in 2023. In a recent mock draft, DeJean was also connected to the Raiders’ No. 13 pick.
