The Las Vegas Raiders have expanded their quarterback room by signing former Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson as an undrafted free agent shortly after the 2026 NFL Draft concluded.
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing around 225 pounds, Robertson brings an impressive physical presence along with significant production from his collegiate career. After beginning his college journey at Mississippi State, Robertson transferred to Baylor, where he emerged as a consistent and productive starting quarterback. Over his college career, he threw a combined 61 touchdown passes, a figure that stands out despite playing outside the highest-profile Power Five programs.
With this signing, the Raiders now have three rookie quarterbacks on the roster for the upcoming season: their first- and mid-round draft picks, alongside Robertson as a developmental undrafted free agent. This move underscores the front office's commitment to building depth and competition at what remains the most critical position in football. Though John Spytek is the current general manager, and Klint Kubiak the head coach, the team's approach reflects a dedication to drafting and developing young talent, exemplified in this signing.
Who is Sawyer Robertson?
Robertson became a well-known figure in the Big 12 during his time at Baylor. After transferring in 2024, he stepped in as the starting quarterback and quickly showed his arm strength, mobility, and leadership. His 61 career touchdown passes headline his collegiate accomplishments but don't tell the full story.
He demonstrated solid accuracy, boasting a completion percentage over 62% in his final season, throwing for more than 3,200 yards and 30 touchdowns. His average yards per attempt exceeded eight, highlighting his ability to stretch the field. Scouts praise his size and arm talent, noting his ability to deliver quick, accurate throws both inside the pocket and on the move. This combination of size and skill is precisely what NFL teams look for in a developmental quarterback.
However, as with many undrafted quarterbacks, Robertson has areas to improve. His decision-making sometimes wavered, and adjusting from Baylor's spread offense--which often features simplified reads and RPOs--to a complex NFL playbook will be a significant challenge. Additionally, enhancing his processing speed and reading NFL defenses will be critical to his development.
Impact on the Raiders' Quarterback Room
Adding Robertson injects further competition into an already intriguing quarterback battle. Since moving on from their previous starter, the Raiders have been on the hunt for long-term stability at quarterback. The presence of two rookies already drafted for this position shows the team's focus, and bringing in Robertson as a third rookie option adds low-risk depth with potential upside.
While he is likely to start the season on the practice squad if he makes the final roster, undrafted quarterbacks have made meaningful impacts in the NFL before. Players like Tony Romo, Kurt Warner, and more recently Brock Purdy began their careers with modest expectations but grew into critical contributors. Robertson's size and production suggest he could be another developmental prospect worthy of this path.
Offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko and the coaching staff will have ample opportunity to evaluate Robertson during offseason activities, minicamps, and training camp. If he can demonstrate that his college success translates to the pro game, he could push for a roster spot or serve as valuable depth on the practice squad.
The Undrafted Free Agent Challenge
The path for undrafted free agents to secure a place on an NFL roster is notoriously difficult, with fewer than 5% making an active roster out of training camp. However, the Raiders have a history of embracing undrafted talent and providing genuine opportunities for such players to earn playing time.
In today's NFL, teams routinely carry three quarterbacks, and having a developmental arm like Robertson on the practice squad is becoming standard practice. His starting experience at a major program coupled with physical attributes will make him a compelling candidate to compete for a spot.
Final Thoughts
Sawyer Robertson may not yet be a household name among casual college football fans, but his signing by the Raiders puts him firmly on the radar of NFL followers and Raider Nation alike. The 6-foot-4 passer arrives in Las Vegas with a strong college résumé and a clear chance to prove himself in the league.
Initially, Robertson will likely compete for a third or fourth quarterback role, with ample work ahead to climb the depth chart. Nonetheless, the NFL is a league of opportunity, and with strong performances in the coming months, he could secure a practice squad spot or even compete for a roster position.
The Raiders have made it clear their quarterback room will not be left wanting for talent or competition. Robertson's addition is the latest piece in a young, promising quarterback group determined to secure the team's future. Whether he eventually emerges as a long-term answer or a developmental depth piece, the Raiders' aggressive approach to building at quarterback is a smart, forward-looking strategy.
Fans should keep a close eye on Robertson's progress this offseason; his proven college production and NFL frame make him a developmental prospect with significant upside in the months ahead.
