Las Vegas Showdown: Giants and Raiders Refuse to Tank for Top Draft Pick
Image Source: Internet
LAS VEGAS — As the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders prepare to face off in the desert, fans may be rooting for a loss to secure a top draft pick. However, the players and coaches are not on the same page. Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby made it clear that he's focused on improving his skills, not tanking for a draft pick. The Raiders and Giants both have 2-13 records and nine-game losing streaks, the worst in the NFL. Las Vegas is in dire need of a franchise quarterback, and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the first QB drafted. If the Raiders secure the top pick, they could trade down and stockpile assets. But head coaches Mike Kafka and Pete Carroll aren't concerned about the draft order. They're focused on playing their best football and seeing what happens. Meanwhile, Giants receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is having a breakout season, setting career highs with four touchdowns and 901 yards receiving. He's just 99 yards shy of becoming the first player 5-foot-8 or shorter to reach 1,000 yards since 1989. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith is also impressed with running back Ashton Jeanty, who showed off his route running and explosiveness with a 60-yard touchdown catch. The Giants' Brian Burns has been a consistent force, with 15 sacks and a forced fumble. And while Smith's future with the Raiders is uncertain, he's focused on the present. The showdown between the Giants and Raiders will be a crucial game for both teams, but the players and coaches are refusing to tank for a top draft pick.
