Davante Adams & Raiders "Hoped" Elite Rookie QB Fell To Them In 2024 Draft


The Las Vegas Raiders and star wide receiver Davante Adams had high hopes that Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels might slip to them in the 2024 NFL Draft. 

With the 13th overall pick, the Raiders were searching for their next franchise quarterback, and Adams, along with head coach Antonio Pierce, who had coached Daniels at Arizona State, thought there was a chance. 

"He's a special player," Adams said on the Up & Adams show. "We were hoping that maybe all the teams didn't think so, and he could slip down to the Raiders." Despite their optimism, it was always a long shot.

The Washington Commanders ultimately selected Daniels second overall, making it impossible for the Raiders to land him without trading up. 

While there were rumors the Raiders explored that option, they stuck with their draft plan and selected tight end Brock Bowers at No. 13. 

Bowers has shown promise early in the season, but the Raiders' quarterback situation has been a challenge. 

Veteran Gardner Minshew, who was brought in to compete with second-year quarterback Aidan O'Connell, struggled through the first three weeks, leading to his benching after a loss to the Carolina Panthers.

Meanwhile, Daniels has been nothing short of impressive for the Commanders, leading them to a 2-1 record, including a standout performance in a 38-33 upset over the Cincinnati Bengals. 

Completing 91% of his passes and accounting for three total touchdowns, Daniels has put the NFL on notice. 

"It's impressive to watch at such a young age," Adams said, adding, "really proud of him."

Photo Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images