Does Will Levis Going No. 1 Change Things For The Raiders And Dave Ziegler?

With the NFL Draft now a couple of days away, speculation is running rampant. Yet, the internet was hit with a bombshell of sorts today. We’re referring to news surrounding Kentucky quarterback Will Levis. According to a certain Reddit user, Levis is telling loved ones that he’s going to be the No. 1 pick. If that’s the case, what does this mean for Las Vegas Raiders general manager Dave Ziegler and his draft plans?

Is a wrench about to be thrown into the Raiders’ plans?

As far as Levis goes, the Reddit user named SaleAgreeable2834 mentioned that the signal-caller is now +4000 to go first overall this Thursday. If this “statement” holds weight and plays out as predicted, we’re in for a wild night. The Raiders, sitting at the seventh spot, have been linked to the top quarterback prospects, namely C.J. Stroud and Levis himself. At the same time, offensive tackle and cornerback are also seen as strong possibilities for Ziegler.

As for Raiders fans, they are divided as ever with regard to this year’s selection. However, can we blame them? This regime, headed by Ziegler, is heading into a pivotal Year 2 with a treasure chest full of draft capital. To say there’s pressure would be putting it lightly. They certainly don’t “love” the notion of drafting a guard in the first round, as we recently found out.

If Levis goes 1st, how does Dave Ziegler respond?

Levis going first certainly changes the complexity of this year’s draft. More important, perhaps, is what the Houston Texans do with the second overall selection. If they indeed go with a defensive pick such as Will Anderson Jr. or Tyree Wilson, that leaves Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson on the board.

On top of that, there’s a general consensus that the Arizona Cardinals will also follow suit on defense with quarterback Kyler Murray in-house. Unless, of course, Ziegler decides to go in and trade for the Cardinals’ pick, giving him a chef’s choice of quarterbacks. Yes, this is purely speculation right now. On the other hand, crazier things have played out on draft night.

Thursday really can’t get here quick enough.