Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek aggressively pursued Texas A&M offensive lineman Trey Zuhn III during the 2024 NFL Draft, ultimately securing the versatile prospect with the 91st overall pick. While the team attempted to trade up from that spot to secure talent, front-office moves and draft board fluctuations resulted in Zuhn falling to the Raiders, a development team insiders described as a high-value acquisition.
Why were the Raiders trying to trade up in the third round?
Official draft footage released by the Carolina Panthers confirms the Raiders initiated trade discussions to move from pick 91 to pick 83. According to the Panthers’ internal video, multiple teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, also inquired about the 83rd selection. The Panthers ultimately rejected these offers to draft Tennessee wide receiver Chris Brazzell II. While initial reports suggested the Raiders were targeting running back Kaelon Black—who was selected by the San Francisco 49ers at pick 90—insider Hondo Carpenter reported on the Las Vegas Raiders Insider podcast that the team’s primary objective was to secure Zuhn.
Trey Zuhn III is viewed as a rare prospect due to his experience playing both left tackle and center at the collegiate level, making him a candidate for multiple interior and exterior line positions in the NFL.
How does Trey Zuhn III fit into the Raiders’ offensive scheme?
Analysts project Zuhn as a “plug and play” starter due to his lateral agility and technical refinement. CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner, speaking on the Pushing the Pile podcast, characterized the selection of Zuhn at 91 as an “A plus” move, noting that the lineman was ranked within his top 50 prospects. Renner highlighted Zuhn’s specific skill set as ideal for the offensive system implemented by Klint Kubiak, emphasizing that the rookie’s ability to move effectively in space is a requirement for the team’s current running scheme.
What is the expected trajectory for Zuhn’s rookie season?
The immediate plan involves testing Zuhn at various positions to maximize his versatility. Vinny Bonsignore of The California Post stated on the JT the Brick Show that the team will likely utilize the rookie as a backup swing guard and center while he continues to develop. Although he is currently slotted in the second grouping, Bonsignore noted that competition for the starting left guard spot remains open, providing a pathway for Zuhn to earn a starting role before the regular season begins.
Monitor training camp depth charts closely. Versatile linemen who can play both center and guard, like Zuhn, often become the first off the bench during the season due to their ability to cover multiple injury scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why didn’t the Raiders trade up to pick 83? The Carolina Panthers declined the Raiders’ trade offer, choosing to select wide receiver Chris Brazzell II themselves.
- What positions can Trey Zuhn III play? Zuhn has collegiate experience at left tackle and center, and analysts believe he has the athleticism to compete at guard as well.
- Who else were the Raiders interested in during the third round? Reports indicated interest in Indiana running back Kaelon Black, but he was selected by the 49ers one pick before the Raiders’ 91st selection.
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