LAS VEGAS RAIDERS IN SEARCH OF QUARTERBACK: WILL THEY MAKE A TRADE?
The Las Vegas Raiders are on the hunt for a new offensive coordinator, but their need for a quarterback remains unchanged. A top-notch quarterback would undoubtedly make the job of the next offensive coordinator much easier. However, with the Raiders picking at No. 13 in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, it may prove challenging to secure a top quarterback.
One potential trade partner for the Raiders could be the Chicago Bears, who currently have Justin Fields on their roster. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggests a trade scenario where the Raiders would send Chicago multiple picks, including their No. 13 pick, in exchange for a higher draft position. This deal would involve the Raiders relinquishing the Nos. 44 and 77 picks in 2024, as well as their 2025 first- and third-round picks, and their 2026 first- and second-round picks.
Barnwell acknowledges that it may be difficult for the Bears to drop lower than No. 13 and risk missing out on top prospects. However, he speculates that the Raiders could potentially move down in the draft and still secure a top-four pick in the 2025 draft. The trade would require the Raiders to be patient and hope for a favorable outcome. Nevertheless, the decision to keep Fields on their roster may complicate matters for the Bears.
While the proposed trade would come at a steep price for the Raiders, it would grant them the freedom to select the quarterback prospect of their choice. The current favorite to be the No. 1 pick in the draft is former USC quarterback Caleb Williams. If the Raiders were to acquire the No. 1 pick, it is highly likely that they would select Williams.
Another quarterback in the mix for the Raiders is Jayden Daniels, a former LSU player who has close ties to head coach Antonio Pierce. However, Williams is considered the safer bet due to his age and level of certainty. Daniels could be a target for the Raiders if they were able to secure the No. 2 or No. 3 pick, although it is unlikely that the Washington Commanders or New England Patriots would be willing to trade down.
The Raiders face a crucial decision in their pursuit of a quarterback. Will they make a bold trade to secure a top prospect like Caleb Williams, or will they explore other options? Only time will tell.
Chicago Bears Not Open to Trading No. 1 Pick, Caleb Williams Expected to Be Drafted
In a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Bears have reportedly decided against trading their coveted No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft. Speculations were rife that teams were vying to secure the pick in order to draft the highly sought-after quarterback, Caleb Williams. However, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Bears are expected to stand firm and make the pick themselves.
“Teams have been anxiously trying to predict the outcome of the draft, with many believing that the Bears will select Williams with the No. 1 pick,” Fowler stated in a recent column. The Bears, a franchise that has never had a truly exceptional quarterback, seem determined to change their fortunes with the addition of Williams. Despite the potential shown by current quarterback Justin Fields, it appears that the team is unwilling to pass up on the opportunity to acquire a once-in-a-generation talent.
While the decision may seem straightforward, the Bears have been known to make unconventional choices in the past. It remains to be seen whether they will ultimately select Fields or opt for another path by trading him to another team. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation until a final decision is made.
Austin Boyd, a seasoned sports reporter who has covered the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Lakers, has been following the developments closely. Stay tuned for more updates on the Chicago Bears and their highly anticipated draft pick.