The Las Vegas Raiders are in dire need of a quarterback to steer the ship, and the solution may be found in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
Currently, the team is led by Aidan O’Connell and the recently signed Gardner Minshew. However, with a focus on securing a younger star, their eyes are set on the draft prospects later this month.
First-year head coach Antonio Pierce has made no secret of the team’s desire to draft a young franchise quarterback. Holding the No. 13 overall pick, the task might be challenging. Yet, rumors suggest that the Raiders are interested in a sleeper candidate: former Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
There’s growing speculation that Penix could be a first-round selection, with the Raiders and Vikings among the teams potentially interested in securing his services.
The Raiders are looking to turn the page after a disappointing season with Jimmy Garoppolo, who was benched and then released following Josh McDaniels’ firing. Draft Kings currently lists the Raiders as the front-runners to draft Penix, with odds at plus-260.
The pressure is on for Coach Antonio Pierce, as his job may hinge on making the right decision at quarterback. If the Raiders struggle in 2024 under the leadership of either Minshew or O’Connell, Pierce could find himself bearing the brunt of the criticism.
With his inaugural season as head coach underway, Pierce has the opportunity to redirect the team’s trajectory by securing the right quarterback. The Raiders have a roster capable of deep plays, and choosing Penix—or another capable quarterback—could significantly extend Pierce’s tenure with the franchise.