The NFL Draft is just a day away, and aside from Cam Ward, not much seems to be set in stone. Recent reports suggest that the Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants are considering trading down to gain more draft capital—or whatever else they can get out of a deal.
This could open the door for other teams eager to grab a specific prospect, of which there are several. Perhaps the Browns choose to pass on Hunter, setting up a trade opportunity with a team that covets him more. While that strategy makes sense, there's also a growing call for the Las Vegas Raiders to trade up for Ashton Jeanty, who finished second in Heisman voting.
“When you’re trying to control the game against Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Bo Nix, go get an explosive, difference-making running back,” said ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum.
It’s not such a far-fetched idea—after all, the Raiders have been signaling interest in drafting a running back.
“I mean we just saw Saquon Barkley just change the Eagles in one year," John Spytek said. "There's certain ways to build a team, and I don't know where we got to a place where we don't feel like running backs are valued."
So far, most trade rumors involving the Raiders have them moving down, not up. A move up the board would clearly indicate their desire to secure Jeanty and strengthen their backfield.
Not only would such a trade confirm the Raiders' commitment to Jeanty, but it could also block the Jacksonville Jaguars from landing him.
“JFowlerESPN says the Jacksonville Jaguars could be a sleeper to pick Ashton Jeanty at No. 5,” NFL on ESPN posted.
Adding Jeanty would bring a throwback, smash-mouth running style to Las Vegas. He’s known for punishing defenses—and instilling fear in them. The Raiders seem all-in on Jeanty, but the big question is whether they’ll trade up or risk losing him to another team.