The Raiders are going to draft a quarterback at some point in 2023. But how early in the draft is up for debate. If the Raiders decide to wait until after Day 1 to pick a quarterback, they will have several intriguing options.
In a recent article by Jordan Reid of ESPN, he ranked the top 15 quarterbacks going into the 2023 NFL Draft. That included Fresno State QB Jake Haener, who was the MVP of the Senior Bowl. Here is what Reid had to say about his possible fit with the Raiders:
“In an offense that’s predicated off of rhythm and timing, Haener would fit well in Las Vegas. He has a limited arm but plenty of mobility and playmaking ability, so being in a Josh McDaniels offense could help him eventually become a serviceable No. 2 option in the NFL.”
During the Senior Bowl, Haener completed 12 of 19 passes for 139 yards and one touchdown. He was crisp, accurate and showed the ability to lead his National squad down the field for points. While All-Star performances don’t tell a lot, Haener did show well in Mobile.
Reid projects that Haener will be drafted sometime late on Day 3 as he has very average size. But he does compare favorably to Taylor Heinicke, who has had some success as a high-end backup for the Commanders over the last two seasons.
If the Raiders want to add a developmental Day 3 quarterback that could stick in the league as a backup, Haener isn’t a bad option. Expect him to be picked sometime in Round 4 or Round 5 in April.
