The Las Vegas Raiders are now viewed as playoff contenders for the upcoming season, a stark contrast from their previous struggles. The turning point came when Josh McDaniels was fired in the middle of the 2023 season, and Antonio Pierce was promoted to head coach. This decision had a profound impact on the team’s performance and outlook for the future.
At the tail end of things last season, the Raiders regained their winning momentum and are poised to be a formidable threat in the upcoming edition of the tournament. In a recent interview, Maxx Crosby, a key defensive player for the Raiders, discussed the team’s upcoming journey and shared some insights into their plans for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Yeah I mean, it is all speculation until draft day hits. So you go on Twitter, all Twitter GMS are going to be like, ‘we get this guy, at this pick is guaranteed is are a perfect fit. But at the end of the day, nobody really knows and even the coaches and GM they do not know until the Draft day comes. Unless you have the number one pick. I mean people coup take trade picks, there can be a certain guy who can pick before you and you are like oh what are we going to do.
Maxx Crosby said via his ‘The Rush’ podcast
In discussing the team’s plans, Crossby emphasized the importance of having a solid strategy and preparation for various scenarios and situations. However, he acknowledged that the true effectiveness of their plans will only be revealed once they confirm they have the right personnel in place.
The draft will take place in Detroit, Michigan, around Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza from April 25 to April 27, 2024.
What might be Antonio Pierce’s and the Raiders’ strategy going in the 2024 NFL Draft?
The Raiders are facing job openings at right tackle and right guard this offseason, highlighting the importance of their offensive line in the upcoming NFL draft. Fortunately, this draft class is deep at tackle and guard positions, offering Antonio Pierce and Co. a chance to secure multiple potential starters. This means they might find impactful players even if they don’t use their first-round pick on offensive line help.
The Raiders, holding the 13th overall pick in the draft, are poised to secure a long-term starter at right tackle. They might explore trading down to maximize value. One standout option is Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga, who could be a perfect fit.
Additionally, the Raiders might use their first-round pick to address quarterback or cornerback needs, then focus on the offensive line in the second round.
Potential second-round targets at tackle include Tyler Guyton from Oklahoma, Jordan Morgan from Arizona, Kingsley Suamataia from Brigham Young, Roger Rosengarten from Washington, and Brandon Coleman from Texas Christian. In later rounds, the Raiders most likely aim to draft multiple prospects to develop over time.
More must-reads: