Lifelong Raiders fan Ice Cube shares who he believes can save the team

The connection between the Las Vegas Raiders and legendary rapper Ice Cube has always run deep. From the streets of Compton with N.W.A to the stands of the Coliseum, Ice Cube has long been a vocal ambassador of Raider Nation. And even though the franchise has since moved from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Cube’s loyalty to the Silver and Black remains unshakable.

Now, as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the iconic artist and BIG3 founder has made his pick clear—he wants Shedeur Sanders in Silver and Black.
“Of course!” Ice Cube responded when asked if the Raiders should use their sixth overall pick on Sanders. “I think his pedigree— you can't dismiss that. He's seen how to do it on the professional level for a very long time... Has a great, amazing coach [and father] in Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. ... If he's there I think the Raiders should take him.”

There’s more to Cube’s enthusiasm than celebrity excitement. Shedeur, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, brings not only impressive stats but a football IQ nurtured from childhood. With the pressure and attention that comes from being “Prime Time’s” son, Shedeur has grown into a confident, composed leader—traits that may align well with Pete Carroll’s vision for the Raiders.
Still, Cube’s not blind to the team’s broader needs. “They've gotta still deal with some great quarterbacks in the AFC West, so we gotta make sure we can stop somebody,” Cube noted. “Cause scoring ain't the only thing, we've got some great quarterbacks out here.”
Indeed, while the Raiders have struggled on both sides of the ball, defensive consistency has been elusive in recent seasons. Cube’s remarks underline the importance of balance—a sentiment likely shared in the Raiders’ front office.
As it stands, many mock drafts suggest the Raiders may lean toward Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty at No. 6, addressing depth and explosiveness in the backfield. However, the prospect of pairing Pete Carroll with Shedeur Sanders might prove too tempting to ignore, especially with quarterback Geno Smith already on the roster.
Smith, who reunited with Carroll after a trade from Seattle this offseason, is expected to start. Yet at 35 years old, he may not be the long-term solution. Sanders could step in as an heir apparent, learning under a seasoned vet while adapting to the pro game.
Even if the Raiders don’t select Sanders, sources suggest a young quarterback will still be brought in to develop behind Smith and challenge Aidan O’Connell for the backup role. But if Shedeur falls out of the top three and into Vegas’ lap, Ice Cube—and perhaps the Raider faithful—might just get their wish.
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