The Las Vegas Raiders stunned many by pulling off a 19-14 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, effectively altering their fate for the upcoming NFL Draft. Just one week ago, the Raiders sat atop the draft order, but following their win, they have plummeted to the sixth overall pick, according to Tankathon. This shift invites speculation about the far-reaching consequences the win might have on the team's long-term strategy, especially concerning their pursuit of a franchise quarterback.
While fans might have been wishing for the team to lose for a chance at selecting a top quarterback, the Raiders’ owner, Mark Davis, was elated with the win. Following the game, Davis was spotted celebrating with the players and staff, as reported by Tashan Reed of The Athletic. The locker room was alive with excitement, as some players danced, and Davis enthusiastically commended players like kicker Daniel Carlson and punter AJ Cole for their contributions. "Some other players were dancing. Davis was in a good mood. Doesn't seem to care about the draft order ramifications of the win over JAX," Reed tweeted.
Despite having lost ten consecutive games leading up to this moment, the Raiders were not focused on their draft positioning. Instead, the atmosphere exuded relief and celebration after finally clinching another victory, which seems to trump any concerns about draft prospects. Players typically do not, and should not, concern themselves with hypothetical scenarios concerning future assets.
The Raiders' victory had significant consequences for their draft strategies moving forward. With the top quarterback prospects—particularly Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward—potentially on the board, the Raiders may find themselves needing to trade up from their current sixth position to secure one of these talented players. This need to trade for their hopeful future quarterback often presents challenges, especially as such trades can be taxing and involve steep costs for teams seeking their franchise centerpiece.
Conversely, the players’ mindset often emphasizes immediate success over long-term planning. The Raiders’ organization appears to thrive on this same sentiment. Building team morale is not just about laying plans for next April’s draft; it’s also about spotlighting the importance of each game and the necessity of working toward tangible wins.
This perspective was clearly evident Sunday, as owner Mark Davis expressed pride and support for his players irrespective of the draft order. According to the reports, he ensured to tell each player, "way to fight" as they exited the locker room. Davis' apparent disregard for draft ramifications reflects broader sentiments within the organization: they prefer victories over hypotheticals.
With the win, the Raiders, who are now 3-12, relinquished their position as frontrunners for the top pick. Instead, it’s the New York Giants, currently at 2-13, who will now control their destiny as they head toward the end of the season. Following the Giants are the New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and Cleveland Browns, all of whom are vying for the lucrative top picks.
This latest turn of events adds another chapter to Davis' legacy as the controlling owner of the Raiders since 2011. The choices he makes now, especially concerning the draft victim against numerous other teams, could prove defining for his reputation. His decision-making style has shown tendencies toward bold moves, without fear of taking risks—traits he may need to channel as the draft approaches.
There’s also anticipation surrounding how Davis will incorporate minority owner Tom Brady’s insights as they develop their draft strategy. Brady, with wealth accrued from successful seasons and accolades as one of the NFL's top quarterbacks, is expected to provide invaluable experience for selecting the next candidate to potentially lead the Raiders.
While some fans grumble over the drafting strategy, voicing concerns over long-term plans versus immediate victories, it seems the Raiders are focused on preserving winning culture and boosting morale. They understand the importance much clearer than mere victories and losses: creating unity and strength within the team. After all, securing players through the draft who might not even see the field does not always offer the same satisfaction as championing success on game day.
Only the future will reveal the true impact of this victory. One thing is certain: the Raiders are not ready to give up on fighting for success on the field today, even if it potentially complicates their aspirations for tomorrow’s draft—but with excitement bubbling and Davis backed them up, it looks like it might be the right decision.
