Las Vegas, NV – April 13, 2025
The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade that could shake up the 2025 NFL Draft—and it has the fingerprints of part-owner Tom Brady and new head coach Pete Carroll written all over it.
According to NFL analyst Rhett Lewis, the Raiders are eyeing an aggressive move to trade up from the No. 6 overall pick to potentially land Colorado’s two-way superstar Travis Hunter, widely considered one of the most electrifying and versatile prospects in recent memory.
Hunter, who has made headlines as a rare two-way talent excelling as both a shutdown corner and dynamic wide receiver, is expected to be a top pick in this year’s draft in Green Bay. His ability to dominate on both sides of the ball has made him a once-in-a-generation type of player—and the Raiders appear ready to make a bold move to secure him.
Speaking with NFL insider Tom Pelissero on The Insiders, Lewis said the Raiders could look to strike a deal with the Cleveland Browns, who currently hold the No. 2 pick. “Travis Hunter is certainly one of those guys you move up to go and get,” Lewis said. “This draft may not be as deep at the top, but Hunter stands out as a blue-chip talent.”
With Carroll now at the helm, the Raiders have a coach well-known for his willingness to think outside the box and utilize players in multiple roles—traits that align perfectly with Hunter’s dynamic skill set.
“It’s not a huge leap from six to two, and it addresses two major needs for the Raiders,” Lewis added. “I believe Pete Carroll is exactly the kind of coach who would let Travis Hunter play both ways without restriction.”
The price to move up, however, won’t come cheap. Lewis noted the Raiders would likely need to surrender a 2026 first-round pick to complete the trade—an investment he believes would still be worth it given Hunter’s generational upside.
But Las Vegas isn’t the only team circling. The New England Patriots (No. 4 pick) and the New York Giants are also reportedly interested in Hunter. Much of the draft strategy may hinge on what the Giants decide to do—possibly selecting linebacker Abdul Carter—leaving Hunter in play for others.
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s draft plans may revolve around Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, Hunter’s college teammate. If the Browns prioritize Sanders as their QB of the future, the door could swing wide open for a team like the Raiders to swoop in and land Hunter.
As the draft approaches, the Raiders’ intentions are clear: they’re not just looking to compete—they’re looking to make a statement. And Travis Hunter might just be the star they’re willing to gamble on to do it.
