With the 2024 NFL Draft coming up, what the Las Vegas Raiders will do remains anyone’s guess. The new regime led by general manager Tom Telesco has some big decisions to make, and their ability to hit in this draft could lead to a return to the postseason for the franchise.
Of course, much of the focus has been on the quarterback position and whether the Raiders will look to trade up in the first round to take someone like LSU’s Jayden Daniels. But it is also very possible the team could stay at 13 and look to fill other positions with that first-round pick.
And according to ESPN’s Jordan Reid (subscription required) that is the expected outcome as the Raiders are reportedly targeting cornerback or offensive line with the 13th overall pick:
What we’re hearing about the Raiders’ draft: Yeah, expect offensive line or cornerback at No. 13 overall. At Alabama’s pro day last month, Pierce seemed to be keeping a close eye on Terrion Arnold, who would give Vegas a shutdown corner on the outside. But sources with the team have also suggested to me that the Raiders could add another tackle to pair with Kolton Miller. Taliese Fuaga is a natural match based on the hole at right tackle and play style, but don’t dismiss JC Latham at this spot, either.
Both of those positions would make sense for the Raiders as they are in need. No Raiders cornerback had more than two interceptions last season with the team-high being three by linebacker Robert Spillane and safety Tre’von Moehrig. Getting a true shutdown corner to pair with Jack Jones would greatly enhance the secondary.
Likewise, tackle is a big need, with starter Jermaine Eluemunor leaving in free agency. Third-year lineman Thayer Munford is expected to compete for a starting spot, but he is still unproven, and solidifying the offensive line is always a need.
The Raiders will have a lot of options when it comes time for them to pick and the pressure will be on Tom Telesco and this front office to make the right decision.
Mark Davis gives blessing for Raiders to make any move as long as it ‘makes sense’
Whatever Telesco and the Raiders decide to do, they will apparently have the blessing of owner Mark Davis, who is entrusting his staff to make the calls they see fit, to a point.
Davis has reportedly given the blessing for Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce to make whatever moves they see fit, ‘so long as it makes sense.’ Exactly what makes sense to Davis is unclear, but it sounds as if he will give his new hires the room to work and shape this franchise.
More must-reads: