Damian Lillard calls for a QB change in the Raiders and puts Shedeur Sanders on the table

Damian Lillard may not suit up on Sundays, but his voice as a Raiders supporter carries weight. After Las Vegas was crushed by the Colts 40-6 in Week 5, the Milwaukee Bucks point guard sent a clear message on social media: “It’s time to go get Shedeur Sanders, man.” The post, shared on his X account (formerly Twitter), wasn’t just a passing comment—it was a signal of frustration and urgency.

Shedeur Sanders, currently with the Cleveland Browns, had been linked to the Raiders before the 2025 Draft. He was even spotted with team owner Mark Davis at a WNBA game, fueling speculation about mutual interest. Despite holding multiple picks, the franchise passed on Sanders and instead extended Geno Smith’s contract for $85 million. Eventually, Sanders was selected by the Browns in the fifth round.

Time to gone ahead and trade for shedeur man smfh

— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) October 5, 2025

Time for Shedeur?

Now, with Geno Smith piling up mistakes and losing support, Damian Lillard insists it’s time to look ahead. As reported by FirstSportz, the NBA star clarified that he doesn’t think Smith is “washed,” but he does believe the veteran is turning the ball over too often. “He’s not washed… he’s just giving the ball away. But it’s time to bring in Shedeur Sanders and think about the future,” Lillard wrote in response to a fan criticizing the quarterback.

Time to gone ahead and trade for shedeur man smfh

— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) October 5, 2025

Pressure is also mounting on Tom Brady, minority owner of the Raiders. Many expected his presence to influence bold draft decisions—especially with Shedeur Sanders still on the board. But the team chose the conservative route, and the results haven’t followed. With three losses in five games, the offense shows little sign of progress.

A shift in direction

Damian Lillard, who knows firsthand what it’s like to be labeled “done” in pro sports, didn’t mince words: the Raiders need a new direction. And for him, that direction is Shedeur Sanders. The young quarterback, son of Deion Sanders, has shown flashes of maturity and leadership in Cleveland. Though not a starter, he could be a valuable asset for a franchise in search of identity.

The conversation is already underway. And while Damian Lillard doesn’t make roster decisions, his message has resonated with fans. He’s a high-profile NBA player, but also a passionate supporter calling for change. Maybe the NFL is listening. And if the Raiders want to matter again, maybe they should too.