With the Raiders signing Jimmy Garoppolo to a three-year deal this offseason, does that mean they are out of the running of picking a quarterback at No. 7? No, not it does not. In fact, signing Garoppolo might make it even more likely that the Raiders use their top pick on a quarterback.
In all reality, Garoppolo signed a one-year deal with the Raiders which the team can get out of after the 2023 season. That means he could wind up being a bridge to the next franchise quarterback in Las Vegas.
In a recent mock draft by Pro Football Focus, they had the Raiders staying at No. 7 and selecting Kentucky QB Will Levis. Here is why the site believes that could be the ideal pick for the Raiders in Round 1:
After signing Jimmy Garoppolo, the Raiders likely won’t be trading up for a quarterback. However, there is still a chance they could wait at No. 7 to see if one falls to them. Here, Levis does.
Of the top four quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft, Levis is the most likely to slip a bit in this draft. But that could be perfect for the Raiders as he’s an ideal fit in the offense under Josh McDaniels.
Don’t expect the Raiders to move up for a quarterback now after the Panthers own the No. 1 pick. But don’t be surprised if the Raiders end up grabbing their next franchise passer in this year’s draft.