The Las Vegas Raiders entered the offseason with a glaring need at quarterback, and new general manager John Spytek wasted no time addressing it by bringing in veteran Geno Smith. But while the quarterback situation looks more stable, concerns have now shifted to the lack of reliable pass-catching options. Tight end Brock Bowers emerged as a generational talent during his rookie campaign, and wideout Jakobi Meyers broke out with his first 1,000-yard season. However, the same can’t be said for Tre Tucker and Michael Mayer, who have yet to live up to expectations in their first two NFL seasons. The Raiders’ offense is clearly in need of a boost—particularly in the speed department on the outside.
With the No. 6 overall pick in the upcoming draft, Las Vegas is likely out of range for elite two-way threat Travis Hunter, and selecting another wide receiver that early would likely be considered a reach. But CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones offered a creative solution: trade back into the first round. In his mock draft, the Raiders make a move with the Philadelphia Eagles to grab Ohio State star. “Howie Roseman is always open to trading,” Jones wrote. “The Raiders need pass catchers badly, and they’d be thrilled to land a pro’s pro like Egbuka.”
He brings a strong résumé to the table—he became Ohio State’s all-time leader in receiving yards last season and won a national title under current Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. That connection could ease his transition and give Las Vegas an instant-impact player who already has familiarity with the offensive system.
If the Raiders are serious about surrounding Geno Smith with the tools he needs to succeed, Egbuka would be a smart investment. Trading back into the first round may cost Las Vegas another draft pick, but gaining a polished, high-upside weapon like Egbuka could be the spark this offense needs to take a big step forward.