Former Raiders running back Marcus Allen urged teams to consider trading the No. 1 pick, arguing that adding a quarterback means little if the pocket isn’t protected. “If I was a GM, I would go [trading the No. 1 pick] direction,” Allen said during a Jan. 28 appearance on Golic & Golic. “Again, getting a quarterback, and if you can’t protect him, that’ll be a disaster for him, and who knows if that will be mentally detrimental to him going forward.”
Allen stressed the importance of the trenches, noting that a strong offensive line is the foundation of any quarterback’s success. He pointed to the role of line play in both the running game and pass protection, describing it as a luxury when teams can keep edge rushers at bay and give the quarterback time to throw. He added that “very good lines” are a common thread among teams that reach or win in the Super Bowl.
The Mendoza link has Raiders fans weighing the potential impact of drafting a signal-caller who many believe could be a franchise-type quarterback. Mendoza has drawn attention in the draft cycle, with Manning and others weighing in on his upside, and Mendoza remains a focal point for discussions about Las Vegas’ long-term quarterback plan.
In addition to Manning’s remarks, former NFL quarterback Jordan Palmer offered insight into Mendoza, with whom he has been in contact since Mendoza’s move toward Cal. Palmer said on The Jim Rome Show (Jan. 26) that Mendoza is mobile, can make every throw, and “likes to throw on time,” underscoring Mendoza’s NFL-ready skill set.
As the Raiders assess whether to draft Mendoza or pursue external assets via a top-trade, Allen’s emphasis on improving the offensive and defensive lines underscores a broader rebuild strategy. Las Vegas faces the challenge of balancing quarterback development with line protection and overall roster depth as they chart a path forward with the No. 1 pick.
This report draws on comments from Marcus Allen’s Golic & Golic appearance and the ongoing draft coverage surrounding Mendoza, including perspectives shared by Jordan Palmer on The Jim Rome Show and reporting from Heavy Sports.
