The 2025 NFL Draft is upon us, igniting excitement among fans, analysts, and players alike. As teams finalize their strategies, The Athletic is providing comprehensive live coverage of the second and third rounds, ensuring that supporters don’t miss a moment of this year’s draft drama. In addition to live updates, The Athletic has a wealth of information including insights on the best players available, draft grades, and a look at the biggest winners and losers from the first round.
Overview of the 2025 NFL Draft and Raiders’ Position
This year, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the sixth overall pick, a significant position that presents an opportunity to reshape their roster. With nine total picks in the seven-round draft, the Raiders have the flexibility to target their most pressing needs. The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate how new General Manager John Spytek and first-time head coach Pete Carroll will navigate the draft landscape.
Raiders’ Draft Picks:
| Round | Pick | Overall | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 | 6 | |
| 2 | 5 | 37 | |
| 3 | 4 | 68 | |
| 4 | 6 | 108 | |
| 5 | 5 | 143 | |
| 6 | 4 | 180 | |
| 6 | 37 | 213 | Compensatory |
| 6 | 39 | 215 | Compensatory |
| 7 | 6 | 222 |
Essential Details of the Draft
The NFL Draft is scheduled as follows:
- Round 1: April 24, 8 p.m. ET
- Rounds 2-3: April 25, 7 p.m. ET
- Rounds 4-7: April 26, noon ET
Fans can catch all the action on ESPN/ABC and NFL Network, ensuring they stay connected wherever they are.
The Raiders’ Recent History and Current Outlook
The Raiders are starting their third consecutive season with new leadership, having replaced previous GM Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce after a disappointing 4-13 season. The team’s struggles stemmed from an ineffective offense, highlighted by a stagnant running game and turnovers from quarterback Gardner Minshew. However, a renewed hope is on the horizon with key players like Maxx Crosby returning and the addition of quarterback Geno Smith via trade.
Spytek and Carroll bring fresh perspectives but will need to work closely with minority owner Tom Brady, who holds significant influence over the draft process. Spytek’s background with the Buccaneers, particularly in drafting in the trenches, could steer the Raiders toward strengthening their offensive and defensive lines, aligning with their longstanding needs.
Key Additions and Position Needs for the Raiders
The Raiders have made several notable acquisitions:
- Quarterback: Geno Smith (via trade)
- Defensive End: Malcolm Koonce (re-signed, one-year, $12 million)
- Safety: Jeremy Chinn (free agent, two-year, $16 million)
- Offensive Lineman: Alex Cappa (free agent, two-year, $11 million)
- Running Back: Raheem Mostert (free agent, one-year, $2.1 million)
However, the team still has pressing needs to address, particularly in three key areas:
1. Running Back
While Raheem Mostert offers depth, he stands at 32 years old, and the Raiders need a dynamic starter to lead the way. With a loaded draft class boasting top-tier running backs, this is a prime position for the Raiders to capitalize on, especially with several options likely available in the second and third rounds.
2. Linebacker
With the departure of their two starting linebackers, the Raiders are thin at this critical position. While they retained Elandon Roberts, they could benefit significantly from injecting new talent into the lineup, as current depth lacks playmaking ability.
3. Wide Receiver
Even with veteran receiver Jakobi Meyers on the roster, the need for additional talent at wide receiver persists. The Raiders are expected to draft at least one more receiver, given their thin depth chart behind Meyers and Tre Tucker, who needs to develop further.
Draft Analysis and Predictions
As the draft nears, speculation is rife about the Raiders’ strategy. Insights from The Athletic reveal a mix of potential targets, particularly for the No. 6 overall pick. The community is abuzz with discussions about whether the Raiders will flank their offensive line with a top choice or bolster their backfield with standout talents such as Ashton Jeanty, who has been prominently featured in multiple mock drafts. As experts weigh in, predicting the Raiders’ move has become a tantalizing part of the draft narrative.
Recent mock drafts from The Athletic reflect various opinions on how the Raiders might proceed, with predictions shifting as interviews and team needs evolve. Whether they prioritize immediate impact players or opt for building for the future will soon unfold on the draft board.
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Raiders and their fans. With crucial decisions ahead, the anticipation culminates as the draft unfolds, carving a path for a new chapter in Raiders history.
