The Las Vegas Raiders' decision to trade for Geno Smith significantly altered their draft strategy, particularly regarding the highly anticipated Shedeur Sanders. As Sanders unexpectedly slipped down the draft boards, the Raiders had multiple opportunities to draft him but ultimately passed nine times before he was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round. Maxx Crosby, a star defensive end for the Raiders, expressed his disbelief regarding Sanders' fall, highlighting their personal relationship and the potential for a supportive environment within the Raiders' locker room. Despite this, the team concluded that selecting Sanders wasn't the right fit for them, a sentiment echoed across the league as many teams had similar chances to draft the young quarterback.