The Geno Smith Transition

At 34, Geno Smith has provided Stability since joining the Raiders in 2024 with a two-year, $75 million deal ($66.5M guaranteed). Despite leading the offense through challenges—including a 4-13 record in 2024—the team recognizes the need for a long-term quarterback solution. With a 2025 Salary Cap hit of $31 million, Smith’s contract creates financial flexibility to draft his successor without immediate roster pressure.

Shedeur Sanders: A Prodigy’s Rise

Stats and Style

In 2024, Sanders (son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders) broke records at Colorado with 3,488 passing yards and 30 touchdowns (73.4% completion rate). His 164.9 passer rating ranked among the nation’s best, pairing accuracy with dual-threat mobility (32 rush attempts for 164 yards).

Mechanics and Intangibles

Pro Football Focus highlighted his 66.9% accurate throw rate over two seasons—the highest in the 2025 draft class. Raiders minority owner Tom Brady praised Sanders’ preparation and resilience, calling him a "natural leader despite distractions."

Raiders’ Draft Strategy

With the 6th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Raiders are positioned to secure Sanders. Teams like the Bears and Patriots may compete for his services, but Las Vegas’ urgent need to rebuild an offense ranked 29th in scoring in 2024 strengthens their case. Trading up remains an option if needed.

Head coach Antonio Pierce’s system values composure and accuracy—traits Sanders embodies. Pairing him with All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers could unlock a high-powered passing attack.

The Competition: Other QB Contenders

• Jalen Milroe (Alabama): Dual-threat but inconsistent (7% "big-time throw" rate).
• Quinn Ewers (Texas): Talented but unproven against elite competition (ranked 91st in ESPN’s 2024 Top 100).
• Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss): Excels under pressure but lacks Sanders’ arm strength and polish.

The Sanders Factor: Beyond the Stats

Sanders’ intangibles align with the Raiders’ "family-first" culture. His 4.4-second speed and chemistry with father/coach Deion mirror the team’s dynamic ethos. Raiders owner Mark Davis met Sanders at a WNBA game in 2024, fueling speculation about a future partnership. Deion himself hinted, "It’d be nice" to see his son in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

Selecting Sanders isn’t just a draft move—it’s a franchise reset. With Smith’s contract buying time for development, the Raiders could finally secure a generational talent to rival the Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes. If Sanders lives up to expectations, he’ll be the catalyst to return the team to contention.

Keywords: Las Vegas Raiders, Geno Smith, Shedeur Sanders, NFL Draft 2025, Quarterback Prospects