2014 NFL Mock Draft: Johnny Manziel to Oakland Raiders?
The Oakland Raiders have lacked the swag and confidence that the proud franchise once possessed.
In 2013, they’re known more for their mistakes or the ever-revolving quarterback carousel than anything else, so the case could be made that drafting a quarterback in the 2014 NFL draft would be an option for Oakland.
Do they really believe Terrelle Pryor is the future of the organization? Though he can be explosive, he has thrown only five touchdowns compared to 11 interceptions in 2013. Matt McGloin is not much better. His interception total matches his touchdown total: eight each.
Quarterback could be the route to go for Oakland, but it’s not just about drafting a quarterback. It’s about drafting the right quarterback.
That’s why the latest mock draft from WatlerFootball.com is so interesting. The Raiders are picking No. 5 here, and they choose none other than Johnny “Football” Manziel.
The explanation is as follows:
"Matt McGloin and Terrelle Pryor have both exceeded expectations and played well at times this year, but that can be attributed to offensive coordinator Greg Olson’s excellent coaching. Olson has gotten the most out of these two, as well as Josh Freeman and Chad Henne (Blaine Gabbert was a lost cause). Imagine what he’ll do with a legitimate franchise quarterback.I’ve had Johnny Manziel all over my mock over the past few months, but I think the 4-15 range is right for him. Some team will be enticed enough to draft him. The Raiders just seem like the right fit for him. Al Davis would’ve loved having a quarterback with Manziel’s attitude on his team. Oakland is now very desperate for a franchise quarterback, so it may give Johnny Football a shot."
I love the pick.
Not only would this instantly restore confidence to the Raiders’ organization, but imagine how much more dynamic the Raiders’ offense would be with Manziel at the helm. Oakland does have some legitimate play-makers to put around him, and it’s hard to deny that Oakland would be a dangerous team with a legitimate quarterback running the show. It would take time, but I like building around Manziel.
Plus, imagine the excitement he would bring back to the franchise and its great fans.
Manziel could lead to a revival of the Raiders, and that’s good for the NFL.