The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback situation for 2025 appears stable after the club agreed to terms on an extension with Geno Smith, the veteran signal-caller acquired during the offseason. This move likely takes the Raiders out of the market for a quarterback with their sixth overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft set for Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Despite securing Smith, league observers suggest the Raiders remain open to addressing the position later in the draft. Names like former Ole Miss standout Jaxson Dart are drawing buzz as potential value picks in later rounds, perhaps Day 2 or Day 3. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky has called Dart a potential "steal of the draft," citing his physical traits and ability to perform in a challenging offense.
Other prospects potentially on the Raiders radar later in the draft include Jalen Milroe from Alabama, along with Texas' Quinn Ewers and Kansas State's Will Howard. These quarterbacks represent a tier seen as developmental options who could grow behind Smith. Interest in Milroe was reported early in the pre-draft process.
Further changes to the depth chart could occur, as incumbent Aidan O'Connell's future with the team is uncertain. O'Connell has reportedly come up as a trade candidate heading into the draft. One potential landing spot mentioned for the Purdue product is the Cleveland Browns, who may seek another option after adding Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco this offseason.
While quarterback is a topic of discussion for later rounds, the Raiders hold the sixth overall pick and could focus on other needs early. Strong cases are being made within the organization to select an offensive lineman at No. 6 overall. Potential targets include Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr., who appears to have gained steam as a top prospect as the draft nears.
Team minority owner Tom Brady is expected to have influence over personnel decisions, particularly concerning the quarterback position. His judgment is seen as a significant factor should the team decide to draft a passer. The acquisition and extension of Smith offers time to evaluate any young quarterback brought into the system over the next couple of seasons.
"For me, he's the guy that two or three years from now we look back and go, man, people were wrong on him, he's the steal of the draft essentially," Orlovsky said.
