Las Vegas Raiders forced to take a different route at pick No. 13 and end up going with TE Brock Bowers

The 2024 NFL Draft is here, and the Las Vegas Raiders first-round pick is in.

Now, when the Raiders had the commissioner walk up to the podium on the stage in Detroit, Michigan, they called out a name not many expected.

The Raiders used their No. 13 overall pick to draft Georgia TE Brock Bowers. 

Bowers is not what the Raiders need. They need a quarterback, but after the Atlanta Falcons drafted Michael Penix at pick No. 8, the Raiders were put in a tough spot. His ceiling is high; he just was not a guy a lot of people, if any, had the Raiders getting.

Last season, the Raiders took defensive end Tyree Wilson in the first round. This year, they go a different direction by drafting a tight end.

The Las Vegas Raiders really needed to go with a cornerback or offensive tackle with their first pick. They have much bigger needs than the tight end, which is far down the list. But, the pick was likely one that factored in best player available, and to many, Bowers is the best player in the draft; just doesn't play the most important position.

2024 is going to be a fun season. But, the draft isn't over yet - the Raiders have picks to make on day two and three.