Tom Brady backs Drew Allar as Raiders explore long-term quarterback solution beyond Geno Smith

The 2025 NFL Draft stirred plenty of discussion not just for who was selected, but for who wasn’t. At the heart of the conversation were Tom Brady, Shedeur Sanders, and the Las Vegas Raiders, with quarterbacks like Geno Smith and analysts like Chris Trapasso adding new layers to the story.

Tom Brady’s impact on the draft raises questions, while Shedeur Sanders’ exclusion sparks debate

Tom Brady, now a minority owner of the Raiders, found himself under scrutiny after the team chose not to draft Shedeur Sanders. Although Brady had previously spoken positively about Sanders and reportedly mentored him, the Raiders selected Cam Miller in the sixth round instead.

This decision sparked criticism, with sports personality Skip Bayless accusing Brady of being a "two-faced hypocrite," suggesting he played a part in Shedeur’s fall down the draft board. Brady denied influencing the draft process, stating that those decisions rest with the front office and coaching staff, not ownership.

Shedeur Sanders, once a projected first-rounder, experienced a surprising slide to the fifth round, where he was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. Many insiders pointed to concerns over his interviews and perceived arrogance during pre-draft evaluations.

However, Sanders embraced the situation, drawing comparisons to Tom Brady’s own underdog story. He’s already turning heads at Browns rookie minicamp, reportedly outperforming fellow QB Dillon Gabriel.


Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports NFL Draft analyst, was vocal throughout the pre-draft process and afterward, particularly about Sanders’ draft stock.

"Allar has kinks to work out of his game-better decision-making and slightly better accuracy. The traits are through the roof at 6-foot-5 and close to 240 pounds. Geno Smith is a fine short-term option for the Raiders.”

“ Allar represents significant upside for the future, and I could envision Tom Brady gravitating toward a pocket-passer type," Chris Trapasso wrote.

Meanwhile, Geno Smith’s presence as a veteran starter remains relevant in this context. Smith, once considered a draft disappointment, has revitalized his career and become an example of perseverance.

His story resonates with younger quarterbacks like Sanders, showing that a rough start doesn’t mean a doomed career. Smith has spoken in support of young quarterbacks being given time to mature rather than being judged too quickly.

Also read: Raiders sign WR Dont’e Thornton as Geno Smith takes charge under Tom Brady’s watchful eye

Together, these narratives reflect the changing NFL mindset where draft position doesn’t guarantee success or failure. Whether it’s Tom Brady brushing off media heat, Chris Trapasso offering sharp analysis, or Shedeur Sanders embracing his journey, one message stands out: the path to NFL success isn’t straight, and it’s far from over after draft weekend.




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