The Las Vegas Raiders appear to have an interest in picking LSU’s Jayden Daniels in the 2024 NFL Draft. The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner is considered the second or third-best quarterback prospect in the draft, so it will be challenging for the Raiders to acquire him if they remain at No.13.
Daniels collaborated with Antonio Pierce, the current head coach in Las Vegas, during their time at Arizona State, and the two maintain a close relationship. There have been numerous speculations about the Raiders making a trade to secure the quarterback. While addressing the rumors, Daniels also provided insights into Pierce's coaching style.
“I don’t know how they’re going to make it work,” Daniels commented on the Raiders rumors during the April 21 episode of “Nightcap.” “But that’s above my pay grade, man. … A.P. is the right coach for that team as a person. His intensity challenges individuals, including me when I was 18. So if I were to join the Raiders — not saying I am or want to, I'll go wherever I'm called — I know that as soon as I arrive, he will challenge me.”
Pierce is recognized for building strong connections with players, and it is evident that he has had a lasting impact on Daniels.
Don't Dismiss Las Vegas Raiders Just Yet
For a while, it seemed like it was a sure thing that the Washington Commanders would select Jayden Daniels at No. 2. However, conflicting information has emerged, including the notion that Daniels is not interested in playing for Washington.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, there is truth to Daniels preferring to play for the Raiders over the Commanders.
“There does seem to be some substance to this,” Fowler mentioned on the April 20 episode of “SportsCenter,” via Bleacher Report. “That is becoming undeniable. I spoke to someone involved in Daniels’ decision-making process who openly questions whether Daniels is considering his options at this point. He indeed has a desire to play for the Raiders. It's a real possibility, staying on the West Coast and reuniting with Antonio Pierce from their days at Arizona State. However, picking 13th, it will be difficult to make that trade happen.”
The only realistic way for the Raiders to secure Daniels is if the Commanders do not pick him, so it would be beneficial for the team if he persuades Washington not to draft him.
Trading Up Would Still Be Expensive
Even if the Commanders opt for Drake Maye at No. 2 instead of Jayden Daniels, obtaining the quarterback will be a challenge. The New England Patriots at No. 3 might be open to a trade, but they also require a quarterback. It will require significant draft assets to convince them to move down.
Nonetheless, this seems more feasible than convincing the Commanders to trade down. It appears that the Raiders’ best chance at acquiring Daniels is for Washington to pass on him at No. 2 and subsequently making a trade with the Patriots for No. 3.
