First: I’m not interested in debating whether or not AOC is the future of the Raiders here, because right now we have no idea. This conversation is assuming that he’s not, and that the Raiders look to move on with someone else at the QB position next year.
So on the Silver and Black Today Podcast, the hosts talked about the possibility of Justin Fields maybe going to Las Vegas next year. And they made that connection around the fact that Champ Kelly scouted and drafted Fields while he was in Chicago, so there is a pre-existing relationship there.
They also pointed out that Mark Davis has plainly said that Champ Kelly was his pick to be GM before McDaniels brought Ziegler as a package deal. So the assumption there is that Champ Kelly will likely have the job going into next year.
If this all comes to fruition, what do we think about that?
I personally think Fields is talented, and can be great given the right environment. Chicago has never developed QBs well, as they tend to be a more defensive culture.
On top of that, I can’t imagine Chicago will ask for more than a 3rd or 4th round pick for the guy, which I would be fine with. With the 1st pick, they’ll likely be all in on Caleb Williams.
This would allow us to focus on the lines, and secondary in the draft while giving him a shot in Vegas for a year. It would be so low risk, and potential high reward. And if it doesn’t work out, we could always look to a QB in next years draft.
Or do you think we go all in on one of the potential studs coming out this year?
This is like throwing darts at a dart board. Champ was Director of Player Personnel with Bears at time of the draft. This is link, he was tasked with turning the card in once the trade was completed (he did not make the trade). While I understand the connection Fields is going into his final year of contract so you have to make a decision on if you’re paying him or not. Since as of now the team doesn’t have a certified starter locked in, the trade done at make much sense (Cowboys recently traded for Trey Lance which made sense as they have Dak as starter). With JF’s performance (the Bears didn’t do anything to really help him) it doesn’t help things either.
For me in our current position before end of season it makes more sense to draft a QB in 1st or 2nd. This way you have a young dynamic QB that can be brought in new and you have up to 5 years to decide if “he’s the man”. The mid round pick would be much better spent on OL/iDL/LB/DB IMO.