If the Las Vegas Raiders secure the No. 1 pick (they’re currently in a three-way tie with a 2-9 record with two other teams), general manager Tom Telesco will have to decide between two Colorado prospects: Shedeur Sanders or Travis Hunter.
Raiders are in the race for No. 1
The Silver and Black could soon be facing a double-digit losing streak to close out the season at this current rate. Last Sunday was another display of dismal quarterback play, only exacerbated by an inferior red zone efficiency. On top of that, Gardner Minshew is out for the remainder of the season, prompting the return of Aidan O’Connell this week. Returning to the red zone issues, we all know that the great teams consistently score points and don’t settle for a “three.” Regrettably, Sin City has struggled in this area for over a decade.
With the playoffs now out of the question, Raider Nation’s already looking to the offseason, in particular, the NFL draft. While these coming weeks will determine the final order of said picks, there’s already one scenario that could play out. What if Telesco opts for a generational talent in Hunter over the quarterback prospect in Shedeur?
Do you take the “unicorn” of this upcoming draft class?
Hunter consistently plays the entirety of the offensive and defensive snaps for the University of Colorado. He is seventh for receiving yards and third for receiving touchdowns in college football. This season could feature the first Heisman winner to play two positions.
Travis Hunter is RIDICULOUS pic.twitter.com/pkJArTctor
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) August 30, 2024
Obviously, the Raiders are also searching for another offensive weapon. Hunter’s home run ability and explosiveness would make him an excellent offensive weapon. He can turn a screenplay into six at any point. Additionally, he has an outstanding high-pointing ability to track balls. He is a dynamic playmaker with a diverse skill set.
On the other side he is also a lockdown cornerback. He has fluid hips and the speed to rebound from his mistakes in coverage. Altogether, he shows enthusiasm and tremendous effort to make a play for his team. Nate Hobbs is a free agent this upcoming offseason.
The Shedeur Sanders conundrum…
Can Sanders ever turn out to be a top five quarterback at the professional level? Sanders hasn’t demonstrated that he has the potential to excel at that level. In any case, while this is a possibility, it is highly unlikely. The quarterback position in the 2025 draft lacks impressive prospects. While Sanders and Cam Ward are not considered generational talents, Hunter is. In case you’ve forgotten, the Raiders have not drafted a first-round quarterback since Jamarcus Russell. Recovering from a repeat situation or a bust will be challenging.
Another option this offseason would be to sign yet another veteran quarterback. There should be an abundance of options, such as Justin Fields or Sam Darnold. In addition, they can draft Jalen Milroe or Jaxson Dart in the later rounds. Drafting Hunter and securing him with Brock Bowers would create a dangerous offense.
Nevertheless, Mark Davis and Tom Brady will face a demanding offseason filled with numerous decisions. Opting for Hunter could potentially safeguard the future of the Raiders. Sanders does have an amazing relationship with Brady, but he may not be the answer to the Raiders problems.
*Top Photo: The Raider Ramble
Las Vegas Raiders QB Updates: Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell, Daniel Jones
The post Do You Take Travis Hunter Over Shedeur Sanders If You’re The Raiders? appeared first on The Raider Ramble.