With under two weeks until the 2025 NFL Draft, some news has come out that could affect the outcome. The Saints, who were likely already thinking of adding a quarterback, just saw their need rise considerably. Starting QB Derek Carr apparently has a concerning shoulder injury that could have his 2025 season in doubt according to NFL media's Ian Rapoport.
The former longtime Raiders quarterback signed with the Saints two seasons ago after he used his no-trade clause to force the Raiders to release him. Now it's interesting that his status could have implications for the Raiders 2025 draft plans.
The Raiders have the sixth overall pick in the draft. While they don't have an immediate need at quarterback due to the acquisition of Geno Smith in trade with the Seahawks, they could still consider taking one at some point. Perhaps even at six overall.
The quarterback who could potentially be available when the Raiders pick is Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. And after Sanders, there's a considerable dropoff in talent at the position.
The Saints have the ninth overall pick in the draft. Should they wish to ensure they get Shedeur, they may need to trade up. That trade up could be with the Raiders or perhaps a team ahead of the Raiders.
If the trade is to jump the Raiders, that would presumably lead to a top talent at another position being there at six who wouldn't have otherwise been there. If the trade is with the Raiders, the Saints would at very least have to offer their pick at 71 overall in the third round. And considering the position of desperation the Saints are in, it could be even more than that.
Three spots may not seem like a big jump, but if it's the difference between getting your QB of the future and not, it's quite significant.
Aside from that, if you're petty like that -- based on how they worked with Derek Carr to get him without having to trade for him -- it would be some sweet revenge to take the QB the Saints want in this draft. But that's if we're being petty.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders NFL Draft plans could be impacted by Derek Carr shoulder injury
