Raiders top 5 biggest need positions heading into 2025 NFL Draft
Raiders top 5 biggest need positions heading into 2025 NFL Draft
Hard to believe it, but we are approaching two weeks until the start of the 2025 NFL Draft. With that in mind, let's take a look at the most pressing needs the Raiders should be looking to address in the draft.
1. Running back
They added Raheem Mostert, but he is not a workhorse back. He is more of a change-of-pace back. Sincere McCormick proved he could be a nice piece out of the backfield, but a bonafide starting running back would really help to get the running game where Pete Carroll wants it to be. They very well could address this position in the first two rounds, but should they wait longer, it would be only due to the depth at the position.
2. Wide receiver
No Davante Adams replacement has been signed to the team. They could still add one of the remaining free agent wide receivers, but that will be a temporary fix. What they need is a number one, preferably an X receiver, but they could also use a slot target. So, yeah, needing help at two receiver spots makes this a position they also need to address with one of their top two picks.
3. Cornerback
Nate Hobbs is gone and they have no one to replace him at nickel. They are also parting ways with Jack Jones and replacing his starting job with Eric Stokes, who comes over on a one-year deal. So, basically they have Stokes and Jakorian Bennett on each side and that's it. That means they need a starting nickel, depth, and a long term answer at the position. And being that cornerback is a premium position, getting one high in this draft could be in the cards, depending on who is on the board when.
4. Offensive line
This doesn't differentiate between interior or tackle because overall depth and competition is needed at guard and tackle. Ideally they would be able to get a versatile tackle/guard, preferably in the mid-rounds. That aforementioned running plans is gonna need all the big maulers it can get.
5. Linebacker
Gone are Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo. Replacing them are veterans Elandon Roberts and Devin White. Both are on one-year deals. And neither currently has any expected competition for their jobs. Pete Carroll likes young competition. White's play these days in particular is a long way from his Pro Bowl season of 2021. So, while he has John Spytek in his corner from their Bucs days, he will still have to prove he deserves to keep that job. Adding a mid-round linebacker to push for it would be ideal.
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