The Las Vegas Raiders just made a move that speaks louder than any draft-day smokescreen. With Geno Smith now officially in Silver and Black, the message is clear: QB is no longer a first-round priority—at least, not in 2025.
NFL Insider Adam Schefter didn’t mince words on ESPN’s NFL Live when he analyzed what Smith’s $75 million deal means for the team’s draft board. And the implications might ripple through the rest of the league.
After all, when a team makes this kind of financial commitment just weeks before the NFL Draft, it’s rarely a coincidence. It’s a strategy.
Raiders Not Expected to Draft QB After Locking Up Geno Smith, Says NFL Insider
The Las Vegas Raiders have solidified their QB position by signing Geno Smith to a two-year, $75 million extension. This deal, which includes $66.5 million in guaranteed money and potential incentives pushing its value to $85.5 million, ensures Smith’s presence in Las Vegas through the 2027 season.
This significant financial commitment to Smith — acquired from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick — has led to widespread speculation about the Raiders’ strategy for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Notably, ESPN’s Adam Schefter weighed in on the matter during an episode of NFL Live, stating, “I think this almost clinches the fact that the Las Vegas Raiders will bypass a quarterback in the first round.”
Schefter continued: “Maybe they’ll revisit it later on, but it’s hard to imagine that they’ll give Geno Smith $75 million today and then turn around three weeks later and draft a quarterback in the first round. I don’t think they are taking a page from the Falcons’ playbook.”
"I think this almost clinches the fact that the Las Vegas Raiders will bypass a quarterback in the first round." @AdamSchefter on the Raiders' NFL draft plans after extending QB Geno Smith. pic.twitter.com/6gXMCE4qhW
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 3, 2025
Schefter’s assertion underscores a logical progression in the Raiders’ roster development. By investing heavily in a seasoned quarterback like Smith, the team appears to be signaling a shift in draft priorities.
The Raiders’ recent history further supports this perspective. After a disappointing 4-13 season, the organization has been proactive in restructuring its leadership and player personnel. The hiring of veteran coach Pete Carroll, plus the acquisition of Smith, are indicative of a win-now mentality.
Therefore, using a high draft pick on a quarterback, especially after such a significant investment in Smith, would seem counterintuitive.
Exploring First-Round Draft Options for Las Vegas
One prominent consideration is bolstering the defensive line. Mock drafts have linked the Raiders to Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, whose prowess could significantly strengthen the team’s interior defense. Pairing Graham with existing talents like Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins could create a formidable front.
A monster in the middle.@UMichFootball DT Mason Graham is ranked No. 4 on @MoveTheSticks‘ Top 50 Prospects for a reason 😤
📺: 2025 #NFLDraft – April 24-26 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/700CZoOJxj— NFL (@NFL) March 30, 2025
Protecting Smith, mixed with improving the ground game, necessitates attention to the offensive line. Drafting a versatile lineman capable of playing multiple positions could address this need while proving crucial for executing Chip Kelly’s offensive schemes.
The wide receiver corps also presents an area for potential improvement. Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona stands out as a prospect with the skill set to make an immediate difference, providing Smith with a reliable target and diversifying the team’s aerial attack.
With the quarterback position addressed, the Raiders have the flexibility to strengthen other key areas through the draft. Whether focusing on the defensive line, offensive line, running back, or receiver positions, the sixth overall pick presents an opportunity to make a significant impact on the team’s roster and performance in the upcoming season.