What positions do the Raiders need to draft? Exploring Las Vegas’ needs in 2024 NFL Draft

Despite a disappointing 2023 season, the Las Vegas Raiders are determined to turn things around and secure a playoff spot in the upcoming year. They have a valuable opportunity to strengthen their team through the 2024 NFL Draft, where they hold the 13th overall pick and one pick in each round. With these additional pieces, the Raiders hope to make a strong comeback and secure a spot in the playoffs.

Assessing the Las Vegas Raiders’ Draft Needs for the 2024 NFL Season

1) Top Quarterbacks in the League

The Las Vegas Raiders are in search of a reliable quarterback for the 2024 NFL Draft. They acquired Gardner Minshew after parting ways with Jimmy Garoppolo in the current season. Furthermore, their current roster includes Aidan O’Connell and Anthony Brown as potential options.

Nevertheless, with a draft class that is heavily focused on quarterbacks, the Raiders may find themselves inclined to seize the opportunity and select one with their 13th overall pick. Potential candidates such as JJ McCarthy, Michael Penix Jr., or Box Nix could potentially be available for the Raiders to choose from.

2) Quarterback

Despite losing superstar RB Josh Jacobs to the Green Bay Packers this offseason, the Raiders have acquired Alexander Mattison from the Vikings as a potential lead back. However, it is likely that he will only serve as a temporary replacement.

Although there may not be any running back prospects in the 2024 class with the same high ratings as Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs, the Raiders still have potential to acquire a standout player in the later rounds.

Trey Benson, Jonathan Brooks, and Blake Corum all have the potential to join training camp and immediately contend for a starting position in Las Vegas.

3) The Importance of a Strong Offensive Line

If the Raiders decide to go with either Gardner Minshew or Aidan O’Connell for the 2024 season, they would benefit from using their 13th overall pick on a player who can protect them in the pocket.

Just like the quarterback position, the Raiders have the opportunity to select a game-changing tackle at the 13th overall pick in this draft class that is abundant in offensive line talent.

Despite the high demand for quarterbacks, the Raiders will have the opportunity to choose from a strong pool of available quarterbacks, including Troy Fautanu, JC Lathum, Taliese Fuaga, and Olumuyiwa Fashanu. All four of these players would bring valuable upgrades to the Raiders’ offensive line.

4) Defensive Back

The 2024 NFL Draft presents an opportunity for the Las Vegas Raiders to acquire a new cornerback. If they choose to stick with Minshew or O’Connell, they may target a top cornerback with one of their valuable picks.

Both Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold, teammates at the collegiate level, would be immediate starters. By not using a first-round pick, the team could still find value in the later rounds.

Both Khyree Jackson from Oregon and T.J. Tampa from Iowa State may potentially be options for Las Vegas with the 44th overall pick.