If the Las Vegas Raiders If Raiders can't find a quarterback they like, they might pick a cornerback in the first round. But they know that high-drafted cornerbacks haven't lasted with the team. None of the last four got a second contract.
Las Vegas needs a cornerback and could benefit from a team that needs a quarterback. Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain is one of the best defenders in the NFL and has made two Pro Bowls. But the Broncos need draft capital and a quarterback. A proposed trade would send Surtain to the Raiders for their first and second-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft.
“This move would let the Broncos take a major risk on a quarterback while the Raiders continue to build an elite defense,” wrote Ballentine in a March 27 column. Broncos head coach Sean Payton mentioned that it would be “realistic” for them to trade up to get a quarterback.
“They rank 19th in Tankatahon’s rankings. A deal that would give them a first and second could be just what they need to have the ammunition to move up and take a quarterback. Meanwhile, the Raiders would have a standout player that would elevate the defense’s potential.”
Trading within the division is rare, and it’s hard to see Sean Payton being willing to send one of his best players to the Raiders. However, Denver could be desperate to move up for a quarterback, and Las Vegas may take advantage of that.
Patrick Surtain Was Top CB Before 2023 Season
Despite the Broncos' struggles, Patrick Surtain has been arguably the best cornerback in the NFL. Many in the NFL agreed that Surtain is the top cornerback in football.
“He’s separated himself, and I don’t think it’s close,” an AFC scout told Fowler last year. “If you’re picking a team, you’re taking him first.”
Surtain played at a high level in 2023, so it’s likely he won't fall down the list.
Las Vegas Raiders Need a CB Either Way
The idea of the Raiders adding Patrick Surtain seems unlikely. The Broncos have no reason to want to help Las Vegas. Both teams finished with the same record last season.
Also, Sean Payton is an old-school coach and those guys typically don’t like to deal with rivals. Although Surtain is likely not a realistic target, it doesn’t change the fact that the Raiders need a starting cornerback. Xavien Howard is still a free agent and could be an option, but he’d only be a short-term solution. The Raiders could use their No. 13 pick on a cornerback. If not, they could also look to the second round. It's expected that Las Vegas will be aggressive in trying to find a cornerback in the coming weeks.
