The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant decision regarding the upcoming NFL draft, opting to move away from selecting star running back Ashton Jeanty in the first round. Initially linked to Jeanty as a potential addition to their offense with the sixth overall pick, the Raiders have shifted their focus towards bolstering their offensive line. According to NFL insider Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the team is leaning towards prioritizing their offensive line needs over selecting Jeanty in the upcoming draft.
While Jeanty was a popular choice for the Raiders in mock drafts, it seems that the team has reconsidered their strategy. Instead of targeting Jeanty, the Raiders are now looking to solidify their offensive line to provide better protection for their quarterback and create running lanes for their backs.
ESPN draft analyst Peter Schrager suggests that the Raiders may opt for offensive tackle Armand Membou from Missouri with the sixth overall pick. Schrager points out that Membou could be a valuable addition to the Raiders’ offensive line, drawing comparisons to the success the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had with Tristan Wirfs in 2020.
Raiders general manager John Spytek has also weighed in on the potential selection of Jeanty. While acknowledging the importance of running backs in the game, Spytek emphasized the importance of adding elite players at any position. He referenced the impact of players like Saquon Barkley in transforming teams and highlighted the value of elite talent regardless of position.
Jeanty, who had an impressive season at Boise State, helped lead the Broncos to the college football playoffs with his standout performance. Rushing for over 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns, Jeanty showcased his talent and potential to be a game-changer at the NFL level.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Raiders are making strategic decisions to address their team needs and build a competitive roster. With a focus on strengthening their offensive line, the team is looking to make the most of their draft picks to improve their overall performance on the field.
In conclusion, the Las Vegas Raiders are making calculated moves in preparation for the upcoming NFL draft, prioritizing their offensive line needs over selecting a star running back like Ashton Jeanty. With a focus on adding elite talent at various positions, the Raiders are looking to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates as the draft approaches and the Raiders finalize their selections.
