It has been an offseason of change for the Las Vegas Raiders. After a disappointing 2024 campaign, the team brought in a new coaching staff and general manager.
In addition to the staff changes, the Raiders will also have a new quarterback in Geno Smith and a few new pieces on defense.
Now, the team is preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft. The team will be looking to add another impact player in the first round with the No. 6 overall pick.
Today, let’s identify the three players who make the most sense for the Raiders to select with their first pick.
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Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
The most common mock draft pick for the Raiders of late has been star running back Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty is a true difference-maker who could immediately take this offense to a new level.
The Raiders had the worst ground game in the league last year. The team did add Raheem Mostert, but the veteran is aging and not an every-down back at this point.
In 2024, Jeanty filled up the stat sheet with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns. The talented back finished 2nd in Heisman Trophy voting and is viewed as the most complete running back in the class.
In Las Vegas, Jeanty would immediately start and give the team a dynamic backfield option.
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Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Another common selection for the Raiders is talented cornerback Will Johnson.
The Raiders desperately need to add help in the secondary. The unit was already thin but is even thinner after the team cut starting corner Jack Jones. A talented corner who could start on the outside would be a welcomed addition.
In 2024, Johnson collected 14 tackles, two interceptions, and three pass deflections. The corner was best in 2023 however, when he came down with four interceptions and 27 tackles.
In Vegas, Johnson could immediately start at corner opposite Jakorian Bennett.
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Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Going back to offense, the Raiders would likely also be interested in Tetairoa McMillan. McMillan is considered to be one of the top wide receivers in the 2025 class and would give the team a true No. 1 option.
The Raiders have an elite tight end in Brock Bowers and a solid veteran receiver in Jakobi Meyers. However, the team doesn’t have an elite No. 1 option like McMillan. The big-bodied receiver has the speed and hands to be elite in the NFL.
In 2024, McMillan caught 84 passes for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns. The receiver ended his college career with 213 catches for 3,423 yards and 26 touchdowns with one First-team All-American selection.
In Vegas, McMillan could start opposite Meyers and give Geno Smith a big target to hit down the field.