The Las Vegas Raiders have made their presence felt this offseason with a series of headline-making moves including the hiring of legendary coach Pete Carroll and the reunion with quarterback Geno Smith.
Over the 2025 NFL Draft weekend, the Raiders executed a flurry of 11 picks that could reshape the franchise’s future, including the selections of Boise State star running back Ashton Jeanty and Montana State’s multi-talented quarterback Tommy Mellott.
Jeanty, the Heisman runner-up and arguably the most electric offensive weapon in this year’s draft, was a headline grab for Las Vegas. But Mellott, a lesser-known prospect from the FCS ranks, has sparked intrigue among coaches, scouts, and even players thanks to his unique skill set.
Raiders general manager John Spytek and director of college scouting Brandon Yeargan said during their post-draft press conference that Mellott is not expected to remain solely at quarterback. Instead, they see him as a hybrid player – someone who could line up at wide receiver or serve as a gadget utility weapon in offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt‘s system.
Maxx Crosby sees Edelman potential in Mellott
Star defensive end Maxx Crosby echoed that excitement on his podcast, The Rush With Maxx Crosby, where he singled out Mellott as a player who could surprise fans.
“We draft two quarterbacks, one of them is going to be a receiver,” Crosby said, referring to Mellott. “They’re going to use him in a lot of different ways. You look at that pick you’re like, you can see the Tom Brady influence. This kid is the Julian Edelman type-player. Freaky, freaky athletic.”
Though Mellott had modest receiving numbers at Montana State – just three catches for 20 yards and a touchdown – his impact came in other areas. Over four seasons, he rushed for 2,847 yards and 38 touchdowns, only one less than his career total of 39 passing touchdowns. His versatility, toughness, and athleticism give the Raiders an intriguing chess piece to deploy in various formations.
While Mellott brings creativity to the playbook, the selection of Ashton Jeanty provides immediate firepower. The Boise State running back posted a record-shattering season in 2024, finishing with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns – the second-highest single-season rushing total in college football history.
Crosby was particularly energized by the Jeanty pick, knowing the Raiders had to leap at the opportunity after the Jacksonville Jaguars passed on him.
“I knew there was a chance he could’ve gone elsewhere,” Crosby said. “But the cards fell in the right place.”
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