The Las Vegas Raiders added veteran signal-caller Geno Smith this offseason, effectively solving their perpetual quarterback issues. However, given that Smith is already 34 years old and signed a team-friendly contract extension after being acquired, the franchise still needs a long-term solution at the position.
With the NFL Draft on the horizon, many around the league expect the Raiders to select a young quarterback as early as the second round. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are unlikely targets for the team, but signs have been pointing toward a player like Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers or Jaxson Dart ending up with Las Vegas in the middle rounds.
With head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly both in the building, as well as minority owner Tom Brady, there will be no shortage of cooks in the kitchen as the Raiders find their perfect recipe at quarterback. On Monday, ESPN's Jordan Reid released a mock draft in which Las Vegas selects Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in the fifth round with the No. 143 pick.
Howard is an impressive prospect, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 236 pounds. He also won a National Championship last season for the Buckeyes with Kelly as his playcaller. The two already have a rapport, so this move would make sense for both parties as Howard tries to tap into his high ceiling.
He completed 73.0% of his passes during his fifth and final college season, throwing for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns. Howard also showcased his dual-threat ability, running for 226 yards and seven touchdowns. If he could learn from Smith during the first few years of his NFL career, the Raiders may have a long-term solution at quarterback.
