Raiders buzz: Las Vegas eyeing trade up amid Ashton Jeanty chatter

The Las Vegas Raiders are among several teams expressing interest in standout Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. However, landing him might be tough, as at least one team drafting ahead of them is also targeting him. According to ESPN, the Raiders are considering a move up the draft order to secure Jeanty.

There’s a twist, though. The Raiders are also reportedly looking closely at a Michigan defensive lineman—Mason Graham.

“Connections to Michigan are strong with Graham, especially through GM John Spytek and part-owner Tom Brady,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are another team said to be highly interested in Jeanty. The Jaguars hold the No. 5 pick, with the Raiders sitting just after them at No. 6.

Las Vegas also has other positions to address, which could influence their draft direction.

“New GM John Spytek and the Raiders have done deep scouting on Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, but there’s serious internal momentum toward drafting an offensive lineman instead,” Dianna Russini wrote in The Athletic.

Alabama QB Jalen Milroe is another name being linked to the Raiders. The NFL Draft begins this Thursday.

Raiders exploring several offensive line prospects

Las Vegas Raiders GM John Spytek (right) talks with Raiders.com’s Eddie Paskal at the NFL Combine held at the Indiana Convention Center.

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Ohio State QB Will Howard (18) throws a pass during the CFP quarterfinal against Oregon at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 1, 2025.

The Raiders are also considering multiple options to improve their offensive line.

“After speaking with teams on Sunday and Monday, there’s still belief that offensive tackle—such as Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. or Missouri’s Armand Membou—remains in play for the Raiders,” wrote Fowler.

Las Vegas would benefit from stronger protection for veteran quarterback Geno Smith, who joined the team this offseason following years with the Seahawks.

Smith reunites in Vegas with new head coach Pete Carroll, who now leads a franchise with just two postseason appearances over the last decade. The fanbase is growing restless and eager for success.

If available, Jeanty would be a smart pick for the Raiders at No. 6. Still, the chances of him lasting that long are slim. The Boise State star is widely regarded as the top running back in this year’s draft and was a Heisman finalist this past season.

The Raiders ended the 2024 season with a 4-13 record. Head coach Antonio Pierce was let go after only one year at the helm.