It appears like the Las Vegas Raiders will have a difficult time adding one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2024 NFL draft. The first three picks go to the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots, all of whom require a quarterback.
If the Raiders want a quarterback, they’ll probably have to look at second-tier prospects. J.J. McCarthy of Michigan may be among the top second-tier quarterback prospects. Josh Edwards of CBS Sports predicts that Las Vegas will select McCarthy with the 13th pick.
“Las Vegas is moving in another direction after starting Jimmy Garoppolo and Aidan O’Connell last season,” Edwards said in a January 27 mock draft. “J.J. McCarthy is a talent who should benefit from the pre-draft process, and he is able to properly demonstrate his potential.”McCarthy is only 21 years old, so he still has a lot of potential. However, Michigan did not require him to accomplish much, and he never threw for more than 3,000 yards in a season. McCarthy is a winner who only lost one start at Michigan, but he still needs to improve if he wants to be a consistent NFL starter.The Raiders haven’t had a quarterback who can make plays with his legs in years, so McCarthy would be a significant shift. As the draft approaches, McCarthy may be anticipated to go in the second round, allowing Las Vegas to wait until later to acquire him. Getting the former Michigan star in the second round is a better option than choosing him with the 13th choice.
