As we approach the NFL draft and move further from free agency, the Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback situation is beginning to clarify.
Their strategy of securing a “bridge” option in veteran Gardner Minshew has been successful, and they still have Aidan O’Connell, the incumbent, in contention for the role. However, it’s evident that the Raiders are keen on adding a promising rookie to the mix.
While the ideal scenario would involve trading up in the top three for Jayden Daniels, this remains a challenging prospect. Nonetheless, they’ve entertained visits from Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix, both of whom present viable options either as second-round picks or as potential trade-back candidates for the Raiders.
ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes sees Penix as a natural fit for the Raiders, possibly even as a Week One starter.
“I really like the idea of Michael Penix Jr. on the Las Vegas Raiders, for a few reasons. For him, it doesn’t make sense to me to draft him and then sit him for a couple of years, not just because he is an older prospect but because he is the kind of player who has played a lot of football and can come in and compete immediately. That’s what the Las Vegas Raiders in their current quarterback room — Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew — need. Someone who can come in and compete for that starting job.”
Penix boasts impressive credentials, having excelled last season by leading the nation in passing with 4,903 yards in 15 games, a substantial margin ahead of the runner-up, Oregon’s Nix.
Additionally, he ranked third in all of college football with 36 touchdowns and set school passing records for the past two years.
However, Penix’s draft position is uncertain due to his extensive injury history. Despite being a sixth-year senior last year under adjusted Covid-19 rules, having transferred from Indiana for his final two years of eligibility, he has undergone season-ending surgeries twice for a torn ACL in his right knee, in 2018 and 2020.
He has also experienced shortened seasons due to shoulder injuries. Moreover, Penix will turn 24 in May, which may deter some teams.
Nonetheless, his experience could make him NFL-ready upon arrival.
Penix possesses qualities reminiscent of classic Al Davis quarterbacks, characterized by his willingness to take downfield risks. While he may not excel as an underneath passer, his arm strength and accuracy make him a potent deep-ball threat.
His addition could significantly benefit the Las Vegas Raiders’ receiving corps, comprising Davante Adams, Jakobi Meyers and the speedy second-year player Tre Tucker.
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