With the 2025 NFL Draft just seventeen days away, draftniks across the spectrum have mocked Ashton Jeanty to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, the sportsbooks have begun to weigh in on where the talented signal-caller, Shedeur Sanders might land. And the Raiders are among the top contenders.
Interestingly, both DraftKings and FanDuel currently list the New Orleans Saints as the favorites to select Sanders, with DraftKings offering odds of +300. The Saints hold the ninth overall pick in the draft. Following New Orleans, the New York Giants have the next-best odds at +350, with the Cleveland Browns at +425, the Pittsburgh Steelers at 7-1, and the Raiders, New York Jets, and Los Angeles Rams all listed at 10-1.
Vegas Oddsmakers Keep Las Vegas Raiders In The Shedeur Sanders Conversation
For the Las Vegas Raiders, holding the sixth overall selection, their recent acquisition of Geno Smith on a contract doesn’t necessarily preclude them from entering the quarterback conversation, particularly for a promising prospect like Sanders.
While few anticipate the Giants selecting Sanders with the third overall pick, the possibility of them trading down to acquire him later cannot be entirely dismissed. The New York Jets, with the seventh pick, and their acquisition of Justin Fields on what appears to be a “bridge” quarterback contract, also remain a potential suitor.
If Sanders is still available when the Saints’ ninth overall pick arrives, his draft stock could see a further slide. Conversely, this scenario could also prompt another team to trade up to secure his services before the Saints have the opportunity.
This dynamic makes the eighth overall pick, currently held by the Carolina Panthers, a potential hot spot for trade activity. History offers a precedent, as eight years prior, the Kansas City Chiefs strategically traded ahead of the Saints to draft Patrick Mahomes. A similar move could be made this year to acquire Sanders.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, holding the twentieth overall pick, appear to be the current floor for Sanders’ potential draft position. Even if veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers were to sign with the Steelers, they still have a long-term need at the position, as Kenny Pickett has not solidified himself as the answer. Shedeur Sanders could potentially be that future franchise quarterback in Pittsburgh.
For the Las Vegas Raiders, their position at No. 6 offers a compelling opportunity to potentially secure a quarterback with the talent and upside of Shedeur Sanders, should they deem him the right fit for their future.