The Las Vegas Raiders may have compromised their chances of securing a top quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft due to their recent two-game winning streak. Holding the No. 8 pick, per Tankathon, could make it too challenging to land a quarterback without trading up.
Despite this, the Raiders have multiple other pressing needs, with wide receiver being one of the most critical. After trading Davante Adams to the New York Jets, the team lacks depth in its receiving corps.
Jakobi Meyers will return next season, but he is better suited as a high-end No. 2 receiver rather than a primary target. In a recent mock draft, CBS Sports‘ Josh Edwards predicted the Raiders would select Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at No. 8.
“Davante Adams is gone in Las Vegas,” Edwards noted in his Jan. 2 mock draft. “If the Raiders can’t resolve their quarterback issue in the first round, they can bolster the surrounding positions. McMillan is a big-bodied pass catcher who can make plays downfield for whoever is under center.”
Standing at 6-foot-5, McMillan is a physical presence who could address the Raiders’ long-standing red zone struggles. He’s also highly productive, setting a record for most receiving yards in Arizona history this season. As the best pure wide receiver in the draft, McMillan would provide the Raiders with a promising young tandem of pass catchers alongside tight end Brock Bowers.
Scouting Report on Tetairoa McMillan
If the Raiders are unable to secure a top quarterback in the draft, the next best option is to ease the burden on whichever quarterback takes the field. A large, skilled receiver like McMillan could significantly simplify a quarterback’s job.
Kyle Crabbs of The 33rd Team had positive things to say about McMillan in his Nov. 11 scouting report:
“McMillan has hands that quarterbacks will love. He effortlessly plucks the ball from his frame, quickly secures passes, and turns them into yardage after the catch. McMillan is effective at all three levels of the field, which makes him a strong candidate for immediate impact, although he could improve his press release and route-running to gain more separation. Teams that utilize a lot of 3×1 formations and vertical passing schemes should keep an eye on him.”
Other Non-QB Needs for the Raiders
While wide receiver is a major priority, the Raiders also have numerous other areas to address. A top cornerback, such as Michigan’s Will Johnson, would be a valuable addition to the defense.
Depth on both the defensive and offensive lines is another pressing concern, as is the running back position, which the team is more likely to address later in the draft. Depending on free agency developments, safety and linebacker spots could also become priorities.
