JUST IN: Latest Mock Draft Gives Raiders New Top Need…see more

The Las Vegas Raiders have finally secured their starting quarterback for the 2025 season. In a significant move last week, the Silver and Black completed a trade with the Seattle Seahawks to acquire veteran quarterback Geno Smith. With Smith now set to lead the offense, the Raiders can shift their focus to addressing other key areas of need.

One of the most pressing concerns for the Raiders heading into the offseason is the running back position. Last season, the team struggled to establish a consistent ground game despite experimenting with different running backs and offensive schemes. The lack of production in the rushing attack was a major issue, often putting additional pressure on the passing game and making the offense one-dimensional.

Now that the quarterback situation is settled, the Raiders have the flexibility to use their sixth overall pick in next month’s NFL Draft to secure a top-tier running back. ESPN NFL Draft Analyst Field Yates recently released his 2025 mock draft, in which he predicted that the Raiders would select Boise State standout Ashton Jeanty in the first round.

“With Geno Smith in place as the starting quarterback, the Raiders can now add the final member of my four-man top tier of prospects, which includes Hunter, Carter, Graham, and Jeanty,” Yates explained. “A Pete Carroll-coached team will always emphasize the running game, and Jeanty brings elusiveness, power, and vision as a runner while also contributing in the passing game. However, the free agency market for running backs could still impact this decision.”

Jeanty is coming off one of the most remarkable seasons for a college running back in history. He was the driving force behind Boise State’s unexpected run to the College Football Playoff and even earned a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist. His 2024 season was nothing short of historic, racking up an incredible 2,601 rushing yards on 374 carries, scoring 29 touchdowns, and earning first-team All-American honors.

With the quarterback position secured, the Raiders now have the freedom to approach the draft with multiple options. While selecting a top running back like Jeanty would provide the offense with a much-needed boost, the team could also consider strengthening other areas of the roster with their high draft pick. Regardless of the direction they take, adding both a veteran quarterback and a dynamic young playmaker could be exactly what the offense needs to take a big step forward in 2025.‏