With the NFL Draft just hours away, speculation swirls around nearly every selection, except perhaps Cam Ward.
While teams calculate their moves within the top five, attention has turned to the Las Vegas Raiders at the No. 6 position.
Reports suggest they may be plotting an aggressive play for Boise State phenom Ashton Jeanty, last season’s Heisman runner-up.
The conversation gained momentum when former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum offered his bold perspective during a recent SportsCenter appearance.
He encouraged the Raiders to pursue a trade with the New York Giants for the third overall pick to secure their backfield centerpiece.
“The Las Vegas Raiders should try to go from six to three with the Giants for Boise State, running back Ashton Jeanty. And here’s why – Pete Carroll was brought in to stabilize the franchise. They signed Geno Smith, and when you’re trying to control the game against Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Bo Nix, go get an explosive difference-making running back,” Tannenbaum said.
.@RealTannenbaum believes the Raiders should trade up for Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty 👀
“When you’re trying to control the game against Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Bo Nix, go get an explosive, difference-making running back.” pic.twitter.com/GQ2fi5y9uZ
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 23, 2025
A growing consensus indicates that if any prospect justifies leaping into the top 10, Jeanty stands alone.
This scenario, the Raiders targeting a running back early, carries more credibility than initial appearances suggest.
Their strategic approach has visibly shifted, with multiple indicators pointing toward serious interest in premium backfield talent.
The recent impact of rushers like Saquon Barkley in Philadelphia has rekindled appreciation for elite running backs across the league.
While most draft analysts have projected the Raiders moving down the board to accumulate additional selections, an unexpected climb would represent a determined effort to secure Jeanty’s services.
Such a maneuver wouldn’t merely strengthen their own offensive arsenal, it could serve as a tactical countermove to prevent Jacksonville from landing the explosive playmaker.
