NFL Mock Draft: How Jets’ Sam Darnold trade impacts Las Vegas Raiders at No. 17
By Brad Weiss
The Raiders hold the No. 17 overall pick in the first round, and while they were not directly impacted by the Sam Darnold trade, it affects their draft.
The Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 17 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, and unlike previous years, that is their only selection. That means that Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden cannot afford to miss here, as this is a franchise on the brink of the playoffs.
Monday, the New York Jets traded Sam Darnold away, and that has a major impact on the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Here’s a look at how Monday’s Darnold trade could shape the first 17 choices in the NFL Draft, including the Las Vegas Raiders’ pick:
1. Jacksonville Jaguars, QB, Trevor Lawrence
Nothing is going to impact this draft pick, as Urban Meyer gets his franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence at No. 1 overall. They hold a second first-round pick as well, and after doing well in free agency, this could be a huge turnaround for the Jags.
2. New York Jets, QB, Zach Wilson
The New York Jets finally traded Sam Darnold, and will now look to add Zach Wilson as their starting quarterback in 2021. Whether or not he will be ready to start right away is a question, but regardless, he is the future in New York, and Joe Douglas is banking his career on that.
3. San Francisco 49ers, QB, Mac Jones
The San Francisco 49ers traded up to pick No. 3 overall, so there is no way they are going with a non-quarterback. The pick seems to be Mac Jones, fresh off an outstanding season at Alabama, and one who would be perfect for Kyle Shanahan and company.
4. Atlanta Falcons, TE, Kyle Pitts
Of course, the Atlanta Falcons could trade away the fourth pick in the first round, but if they stay here, they have to go with Kyle Pitts, arguably the best player in this class. Pitts would be perfect in this Falcons offense, giving Matt Ryan another solid option in the passing game.