2025 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: After Firing Antonio Pierce, the Raiders Make a Significant Move for Quarterback
As the 2025 NFL draft looms closer, the landscape of the league is shifting in unexpected ways, and none more so than with the Las Vegas Raiders. Following the dismissal of head coach Antonio Pierce in late 2024, the organization is now at a crossroads—especially with their most pressing need being at quarterback. This marks a critical point for the Raiders as they look to reshape their future under new leadership and re-establish themselves as a legitimate contender in the AFC.
In this mock draft, we will explore how the Raiders, along with other teams, will address their biggest needs during the 2025 NFL Draft. From quarterbacks to edge rushers, wide receivers to defensive backs, there are a lot of decisions to be made over the next few months. But first, let’s dive into the Raiders’ situation and their likely strategy after firing Pierce.
The Raiders’ Crucial Quarterback Decision
The firing of Antonio Pierce in 2024 signals a major shift in the direction of the franchise. Pierce had only been appointed as the interim head coach after the mid-season firing of Josh McDaniels, and while he brought some energy and a new sense of hope to the team, the results just weren’t there. The Raiders finished the season with a disappointing record, and despite some flashes of brilliance from their offense, it became apparent that quarterback play was a major issue.
While the Raiders do have veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo on the roster, his tenure has been marked by injuries and inconsistency. The Raiders need someone to lead the franchise for the long term, and they have an opportunity in 2025 to make that bold move for a new quarterback of the future.
Looking ahead to the draft, the Raiders will have options in the top 10, with several high-end quarterbacks entering the 2025 draft class. This creates a perfect scenario for the franchise to upgrade the most important position on the field and set themselves up for success for years to come.
Mock Draft 4.0: Round 1
1. Arizona Cardinals – Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Despite not having the worst record in the league, the Arizona Cardinals will likely hold the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft. With Kyler Murray’s future with the team in question, the Cardinals will opt to take Caleb Williams, the consensus top quarterback in the class. Williams is a dynamic playmaker who is capable of elevating any franchise. With his arm strength, mobility, and leadership skills, he is widely regarded as the most pro-ready quarterback to come out of college in years.
2. Chicago Bears – Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
The Bears have invested in Justin Fields as their quarterback, and while Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, the lack of a true No. 1 wide receiver has hampered their offense. Marvin Harrison Jr. is the best wide receiver prospect since DeAndre Hopkins, and his combination of size, route running, and hands make him a perfect fit for Fields. Adding Harrison will give Chicago the firepower needed to compete in the NFC North.
3. Las Vegas Raiders – Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
After firing Antonio Pierce and deciding to reset their future, the Raiders make a big splash by selecting Drake Maye, the quarterback from North Carolina. Maye has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback—he’s tall, has a cannon of an arm, and shows poise in the pocket. His combination of accuracy and ability to make plays on the move will appeal to the Raiders’ front office, who are looking for someone who can elevate the offense to the next level.
Maye’s impressive performances throughout his college career—especially in the 2023 and 2024 seasons—have cemented his place as a top-five pick. The Raiders, armed with a top-three pick, should be eager to make a trade up if necessary, to secure their quarterback of the future. This move could completely reshape the franchise, as Maye’s skill set aligns perfectly with what they need: a signal-caller capable of driving the offense and leading the team for years to come.
4. New York Giants – Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State
The Giants have struggled with offensive line play in recent years, and with a top-five pick, they can’t afford to miss on this need. Penn State’s Olu Fashanu is the top offensive tackle in the draft, and his combination of strength, technique, and agility will make him an immediate contributor. With Daniel Jones locked in as their quarterback, providing him with the protection he needs will be the first step to a successful offense.
5. Detroit Lions – J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama
The Lions have built an impressive offense around quarterback Jared Goff, but their offensive line still has areas of weakness. J.C. Latham, a dominant right tackle from Alabama, will immediately upgrade Detroit’s line, ensuring Goff has more time in the pocket to make plays downfield. Latham is known for his strength, discipline, and ability to handle elite pass rushers.
6. Carolina Panthers – Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
While the Panthers are looking for their next quarterback, they can also look to enhance their receiving options. Brock Bowers, the dynamic tight end from Georgia, is an elite athlete and a mismatch for defenders. His ability to stretch the field, create separation, and serve as a reliable safety valve in the passing game will be a perfect addition for whichever quarterback the Panthers draft in the following rounds.
7. Washington Commanders – Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
The Commanders’ offense has struggled to find consistency, and one of the areas they need to improve is their wide receiver corps. Xavier Worthy from Texas is a game-breaking talent who can stretch the field and open up space for other players. With solid route running, speed, and hands, Worthy will add a new dimension to Washington’s offense.
8. Indianapolis Colts – Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
With the selection of Anthony Richardson in the 2024 draft, the Colts are set at quarterback for the future. Now, they turn their attention to the defense, specifically the pass rush. Jared Verse, the explosive edge rusher from Florida State, is a relentless force off the edge. His speed, strength, and ability to finish plays will help solidify the Colts’ defense for the next decade.
9. Denver Broncos – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Broncos’ defense remains one of the best in the league, but they could use a top-tier cornerback to solidify their secondary. Will Johnson from Michigan is an outstanding cornerback prospect, known for his ability to lock down receivers, play physical at the line of scrimmage, and make game-changing plays. His skill set will help elevate the Broncos’ defense to an even higher level.
10. Houston Texans – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
The Texans continue to rebuild under head coach DeMeco Ryans, and they have an opportunity to strengthen their secondary by selecting Malaki Starks. Starks is a rangy safety who can play both the deep and intermediate levels of the field. His versatility and intelligence will provide a major boost to Houston’s defense as they continue to improve in the AFC South.
Round 2: Other Notable Picks
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
With Baker Mayfield at quarterback, the Buccaneers will look to add another weapon to their offense. Emeka Egbuka is one of the best wide receiver prospects, known for his precise route running and ability to make spectacular catches in tight spaces. He could quickly become a favorite target in Tampa Bay.
12. Minnesota Vikings – Tyrus Wheat, EDGE, Mississippi State
The Vikings’ defense has been a work in progress for years, and selecting a high-upside edge rusher like Tyrus Wheat could add significant depth to their pass-rush unit. Wheat’s explosiveness and relentless effort make him a potential game-changer.
13. Tennessee Titans – Donovan Jackson, OG, Ohio State
The Titans’ offense is built around Derrick Henry, but the offensive line has been an area of concern. Donovan Jackson, a dominant interior lineman from Ohio State, will help shore up the interior and give Henry more room to run.
14. Green Bay Packers – Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Packers will continue to build on their defense with the selection of Tyree Wilson, a highly touted edge rusher from Texas Tech. Wilson’s length, athleticism, and ability to disrupt the passer will add another weapon to the Packers’ already talented defense.
15. Miami Dolphins – Jared Goff, QB, California
In this scenario, the Dolphins might look to add a young QB to develop under Tua Tagovailoa. Goff has the potential to be a big-time playmaker at the next level, and Miami could give him the tools to succeed.
