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[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders 2025: Daniel Carlson wants more action, less touchbacks

Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson (2) eyes the flight of his kickoff against the Denver Broncos last season. If it were up to Carlson, he’d put the ball in play more often with the NFL rule change. | Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

If Las Vegas kicker had his way, there’d be less touchbacks and more action on kickoffs

While he didn’t hit us with that classic “I’m just ‘bout that action, boss” line from Marshawn Lynch, Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson is indeed ‘bout that action.

Because, if it were up the the Silver & Black’s place kicker, touchbacks would become rare as his kickoffs would put the ball in play.

With the NFL tweaking the kickoff rule this offseason, it’s no surprise to hear Carlson feel this way. The league advanced the touchback dead ball spot from the 30- to the 35-yard line in hopes of creating more action and excitement in the kick return game.

The hope is the 32 teams are a bit more hesitant to boom the ball into or out of the end zone as the opposing offense gets to start at the 35-yard line.

“As far as kickoffs go, obviously we are going to see a lot less touchbacks. We did experiment a lot and last year was a learning period, so I think now it’s just continuing that and playing a lot more ball, which is exciting for specials teams guys and exciting for me,” Carlson said when asked about how the kickoff rule changes his approach, after one of the Raiders’ mandatory minicamp sessions this past Tuesday. “I think it’s going to be a great play and hopefully we’ll see a lot of exciting returns on our side when we do get a chance to return and then a lot of good kicks and coverage on our side as well.”

#Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson on the rule changes and how it’s changed his preparation pic.twitter.com/EVsAi7oPCU

— Heidi Fang (@HeidiFang) June 10, 2025​

Last season, Carlson compiled 80 kickoffs and of that sum, 51 were touchbacks. The 63.8 percent touchback ratio put the Raiders’ kicker under the league average. Detroit Lions’ kicker Jake Bates paced the league with 110 kickoffs and an impressive 85 touchbacks. The Buffalo Bills’ Tyler Bass was next with 103 kickoffs and 75 touchbacks — for reference.

Advancing the ball to the 35 on touchback has potential to severely wane the 2024 touchbacks in 2025. Of course, there’s likely to be an overzealous squad out there that has utmost belief in its defense and having the opposition start at the 35 will be scoffed at.

But for the Raiders, a team that needs a defensive resurgence under new head coach Pete Carroll, being strategic and putting the ball in play seems more apt.

For Carlson, the mentality has shifted from kicking it far and high on kickoffs. Hangtime was king but no, placement and precision is the focus. Which means going back to his soccer roots for the 30-year-old boot specialist.

“You don’t want to necessarily just kick it straight to the returner or anything like that. So, there’s just a little bit of reliance on the feel of my old days of soccer,” Carlson said. “And you’ve seen guys do it last year, where different teams did different things. So, we’ll see what happens this year. Some teams may just kick it and cover and some teams might even hit touchbacks. We’ll have to find out.”

"Everybody wants to be the returner. Everybody wants to cover kicks. Because production is, and it should be, where you make the money in this league." - #Raiders ST coordinator Tom McMahon pic.twitter.com/ucxT40Zz9S

— Paul Gutierrez (@PaulHGutierrez) June 10, 2025​

Carlson, who seeks a return to accurate form after going 34-for-40 (85 percent) in 2024 on field goals, wants to become a precise and reliable kickoff specialist to join his effective ways booting the ball through the uprights. (For reference: Carlson is fifth on the all-time field goal percentage list with a lifetime 87.5 percent mark over the course of his seven seasons int he league.)

And it was only natural Carlson fielded a question regarding the kickoff method affecting his overall kicking stroke on field goals.

“Yeah, it’s definitely something I have to adjust to because your used to just kind of having one ball where you kick high, far and straight, that’s the goal. It doesn’t really matter how quickly it gets there; you’re trying to make it hard for the returner to catch,” Carlson explained. “So, it’s a fun, different part of the game where, like I said, I’m a little more reliant on a soccer style kick almost.

“But obviously field goals, for me, that’s still the priority, because at the end of the day that’s what can make or break games a lot of times. But at the same time, I want to be one of the best in the league at that kickoff part. I want to be effective because it’s not fun if we just start kicking touchbacks or something like that. I don’t think that brings any value to my team, and so it’s my job to dominate that as well.”

Carlson is all too aware that his foresight and wants are at the mercy of a grueling 17-game regular season. Tom McMahon’s special teams unit did practice a variety of ways of approaching the kickoff and getting creative, but over the course of the 2024 campaign, with kick returns reaching the 30-yard line and touchback dead balls being at the 30, teams simply decided to blast the ball into or out of the end zone to save wear and tear on the roster during kickoffs.

With the ball being advanced five more yards, perhaps we shall see the Silver & Black’s creativity in 2025.

“The thing is though, the more hang time you put on that ball, the better chance that that returner has to get under it. We can’t go naturally until the ball hits inside the 20, between 20 and the goal line,” McMahon began. “So, if you can get what’s called a ‘Head Start ball’; so if you’re the 20 and I’m the goal line, if we can get a ball on the ground at the 11 that I can’t get to, we’re going to get a head start on it.

“And so, if I actually get it off the ground at the five until I get back to the 11, the hang time for us hasn’t stopped yet, because we’re going when that ball hit at the 11, until he gets back to the 11, we’re not giving up any free yardage. So, a lot of guys are doing that. That’s why you’re seeing everybody in the league work those line drives. We’re trying to hit line drives at people.”

"You could probably buy a house”…

Ashton Jeanty on what it cost to get that #2 jersey from Daniel Carlson

@AshtonJeanty2 #raiders #raidernation @PaniniAmerica pic.twitter.com/P2uvl1LfvC

— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) May 20, 2025​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/15/24448648/raiders-2025-daniel-carlson-kickoffs

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Can you guess this Raiders running back in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Raiders player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Raiders fans! We’re back for another day of the Silver & Black Pride in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in the Google Form.

Today’s Silver & Black Pride in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Saturday, June 14, 2025
Friday, June 13, 2025
Thursday, June 12, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Silver and Black Pride in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Raiders player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/15/24449592/sb-nation-raiders-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders 2025: Marcus Robertson’s, Joe Woods’ coaching ability vital for secondary

This isn’t defensive backs coach Marcus Robertson’s first go-around with the Raiders. He was the DB coach with the Oakland Raiders back in 2016. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Pair of veteran defensive backs coaches key to shaping up young defensive backs group in Las Vegas

With the oldest cornerback and safety being 27 and 29 years old, respectively, the Las Vegas Raiders secondary is a young group overall.

It’s a group of 12 defensive backs that are 25 years of age and under and the unit in total numbers 17. Of course, that sum will dwindle in due time. The Silver & Black’s roster, like the other 31 teams in the NFL, are at the bloated 90-man limit. Come cut-down day to the 53-man roster, swaths of released and waived players will hit the open market.

But the timespan between that fateful day and offseason workouts and training camp in mid-July, we’ll get to see just how vital defensive backs coach Marcus Robertson and pass game coordinator/defensive backs coach Joe Woods are to the secondary.

Both didn’t need a sell job on the Raiders’ mystique as Robertson and Woods are no stranger to being on the Silver & Black coaching staff. Both spent time with the Oakland variant — Robertson from 2015-16 and Woods in 2014 — and their respective paths have crossed three separate times amongst a trio of different teams. Most recently, the duo of Robertson and Woods were the New Orleans Saints defensive backs and defensive coordinator, respectively, from 2023-24.

Now, they’re back together on head coach Pete Carroll’s coaching staff to coach and develop Las Vegas’ secondary.

“I believe I’ve got a vast knowledge of the game. I also think my 12 years of experience being on the grass has played a very vital part in not only my relationship with players but getting them to understand and see things and feel things,” Robertson told Raiders.com during a Q&A session back in April. “I try to do the best I possibly can not to put our players in positions where I myself would be uncomfortable. I’ve seen a ton of football. I’ve played a ton of football. I always tell my players, you’re going to learn to trust me. For me, alignment, assignment, technique, finish, all those types of things. I think over a period of time if you continue to rep them, they become like second nature. No different from a guy getting up every day and driving to work.”

#Raiders DB coach Marcus Robertson who comes to LV from NO:

• Gifted rookie CB Darien Porter 'taking big leaps' learning position
• 'Hoping to mimic' success of Carroll's Legion of Boom
• 'You can feel the culture changing' under new regime
• CB Jakorian Bennett 'mastering… pic.twitter.com/iOK1HN4wVZ

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) May 28, 2025​

“It’s really just knowledge,” Woods said in a similar team Q&A back in April. “I mean, with every team you’ve been on, with every different type of guy you coach, with every system that you’ve been in, the game experiences, the adjustments you had to make, your personal interactions and dealings with different players, I just feel like you grow. You get more experience and you know how to handle different situations based on things you’ve dealt with in the past.”

Having the experience and knowledge is one thing. Being able to impart that onto players under your charge for tangible development and growth is a whole different beast. And how well Robertson and Woods do that, to help cornerbacks and safeties not only learn the scheme that Carroll and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham are installing this offseason, but to have success in it over the course of the 2025 year and beyond, is paramount.

Veteran safeties Jeremy Chinn (heading into his sixth season in the NFL at age 27) and Isaiah Pola-Mao (heading into his fourth year at age 25) along with veteran cornerbacks Jakorian Bennett (heading in his third season at age 24), Eric Stokes (fifth year at age 26), and Darnay Holmes (sixth year, age 26) are being leaned upon to pace a group that features intriguing young talent.

For example, the Raiders drafted Darien Porter (24 years old) in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft and also have last year’s fourth-round pick Decamerion Richardson (24) in tow. There’s also undrafted free agent (but ballhawk) Mello Dotson at the position group. Flip to safety, there’s second-year players Thomas Harper (24) and Trey Taylor (24) with veteran Lonnie Johnson Jr. (29) also in the group.

“It’s a lot of competition, but that’s what’s going to make everybody better,” Bennett said after Las Vegas’ mandatory minicamp sessions last Tuesday. “We got Stokes, D-Cam, DP (Darien Porter), Kyu (Blu Kelly), Sam (Webb), all them boys, everybody’s good, everybody’s nice. So it makes you have to go out here when you on the practice field to just give it all you got and just leave it out on the field.”

#Raiders pass game coordinator, DB coach Joe Woods:

• 'A lot of good guys' in new-look secondary
• Versatile S Jeremy Chinn a 'chess piece'
• 'Sky's the limit' for rookie CB Darien Porter
• CBs Jakorian Bennett, Decamerion Richardson show 'eagerness to learn'
• 'We have the… pic.twitter.com/zw2PnCv1oT

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) May 28, 2025​

Maximizing the return on investment in drafted players, undrafted free agents, and veteran free agents is going to be a solid test of Robertson’s and Woods’ career progression.

Carroll harkens about open competition for his roster and we’re likely going to see quite the flux as players get looks and snaps as the Raiders embark on finding the best 53 to fill the regular-season roster, along with practice squad candidates.

It’s a triple whammy, really, when it comes to Robertson, Woods, and Carroll. All three have deep experience developing secondaries and when the 73-year-old head coach who has cut his teeth in the NFL 31 years gives you nuggets of wisdom, you take it.

“I’ve never had a head coach really hands on with the DBs, so it’s different for me,” Pola-Mao said of Carroll after the team’s session last Wednesday. “But I love it. And at the same time, Pete’s legendary. Learning from him, he’s seen it and he’s done it, so he knows what it’s supposed to look like. I’m just learning, listening and trying to take it all in.”

Pola-Mao, who is expected to either earn one of the starting safety spots or get substantial snaps, is tag teaming with Chinn to be the experienced backend defenders of the group. Both Chinn and Pola-Moa give the Raiders two tall and big safeties at 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds and 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, respectively. And the latter, an undrafted free agent out of USC, is glad to have the former in the defensive backfield.

“Like I take pride in knowing exactly where everybody’s supposed to be and I try to put everybody in the right position, make sure everybody’s on the same page,” Pola-Mao said. “So, I think a little bit of a vocal leader, but I also give that to Chinn because he’s going to be more of the guy that’s getting everybody hyped up and we’re going to kind of follow his lead.”

The Raiders have several starting spots up for grabs not only in the secondary, but across the roster. And coaches like Robertson and Woods will have a big hand in determining the starters.

The results will, eventually, speak for themselves — for better or worse.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/16/24448656/raiders-2025-defensive-backs-marcus-robertson

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Tonka Hemingway reminds former coach of a new teammate

Tonka Hemingway | Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images

Maxx comparisons

South Carolina defensive line coach Travian Robertson was on the telephone, breaking down why he thinks his former player, Tonka Hemingway, will succeed in the NFL.

“I see him being a pass-rusher in the NFL will be his main attribute,” Robertson told Silver and Black Pride in a telephone interview. “He is an all-around player and he can play anywhere on he line, but I just see him being a big-time pass-rusher. He cares so much. He’s all business. He’s all football. The main thing is the main thing for him, He’s never going to stop working.”

When Robertson was told that he was describing another Raiders fourth-round draft pick, Maxx Crosby, the coached laughed.
“Yes, that’s the thing, I see Maxx in him,” Robertson said. “I think it’s going to be a very good thing that Tonka will have Maxx with him.”

And the relationship has already started.

Hemingway excitedly called his college coach to to him that Crosby facetimed him shortly after the Las Vegas Raiders took him in the fourth round.

“He couldn’t believe he heard from Maxx,“ Robertson said. “It’s going to be a good thing.”

The Raiders are planning to use Hemingway as a defensive tackle, but at 6-foot-3, 284 pounds, Hemingway is considered a tweener. Even if he plays in the interior, Robertson thinks Hemingway can develop into a double-digit sack artist in the NFL.

“There’s no doubt, it’s just the way he works,” Robertson said. ”He has that type of potential.”

Robertson said he though the Washington Commanders might select Hemingway because head coach Dan Quinn showed a lot of interest. That makes sense because Quinn was new Raiders’ head coach Pete Carroll’s defensive coordinator in Seattle. So, clearly Hemingway seems to fit what both Carroll and Quinn like to do defensively.

Robertson said he did hear form the Raiders during the pre-draft process and thinks he will be a good fit there and the quiet Hemingway is ready for the challenge of the NFL.

“Tonka is really quiet ... he’s focused on the job,” Robertson said. “He’s a business man. It’s all about the pads. Tonka is a beast and he will do great there.”

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/18/24443730/raiders-roster-tonka-hemingway-maxx-crosby

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Silver Minings: More explosion, please

Ashton Jeanty | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Ashton Jeanty should help

The Las Vegas Raiders needed to get more explosive.

That’s why way Ashton Jeanty is now a Raider.

A lot of folks thought using the No. 6 overall draft pick for a running back, especially on a roster with a lot of needs, was a luxury. But it really was more of a need that a true luxury for the Raiders.

As a recent tweet by NFL analyst Warren Sharp, the Raiders needed an uptick in explosive plays. According to Sharp, the Raiders had 32 plays that gained 25 yards or more in the 2024 season. That ranked in the bottom half of the league. Here is the full list:

plays that gained 25+ yards last yr

58 - BAL
57
56
55
54
53
52 - SF
51
50
49 - GB
48
47 - MIN
46 - TB
45
44 - BUF
43 - WAS, PHI
42
41 - LAC
40 - IND, PIT
39 - HOU, DET
38 - DEN
37 - CIN
36
35 - NO, CAR
34 - CHI, SEA, ATL
33
32 - LV
31 - DAL
30 - TEN, NYJ
29 - KC, NYG, JAX
28 -…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) June 8, 2025​

Jeanty was famous for his breakaway play at Boise State. So, expect the Raiders numbers of explosive plays to increase with him now in the fold.

In other Raiders’ news:

• Hall of Fame thoughts: Raiders cornerback royalty break down the team’s current cornerback room.
• Time to redraft: Here is a 2012 redraft from PFF.
• Improvement time: NFL.com thinks these players will improve in 2025.
• All quarter century team: ESPN offer an all-time great roster.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/19/24446065/raiders-news-ashton-jeanty-explosive-plays

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

How Spytek sold White on signing with Raiders

Devin White | Candice Ward-Imagn Images

The relationship between the general manager and linebacker goes beyond the field.

Especially after losing last year’s starters Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo at the beginning of free agency this offseason, linebacker became one of the Las Vegas Raiders’ biggest needs. About two months prior, the Raiders hired former Tampa Bay Buccaneers assistant general manager John Spytek as their GM.

So, Spytek picked up his phone and called one of his old friends, former Buccaneers linebacker Devin White, to solve one of the most significant issues with the roster he inherited.

“John Spytek, number one,” White replied when asked what made him want to come to Las Vegas. “We’ve got a great relationship. When I got drafted in ‘19, he took me out to dinner. In the process in Baton Rouge, he came down. We had a genuine relationship, myself, him, his kids, his family. They used to wear my jersey and everything.”

Clearly, there’s more than just the typical executive and player relationship here. The White and Spytek families are familiar with each other, and the two grew together in the NFL.

At the time Devin was drafted, John was in his third year as the director of player personnel. Just two years later, they won Super Bowl LV, and Spytek got promoted to vice president of player personnel while White went on to earn Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro bids.

So, the general manager leaned on the success they had together while pitching the Silver and Black to the linebacker.

“Man, he wants to win,” White said of Spytek’s vision for the Raiders after the team’s final mandatory minicamp practice. “When we got to Tampa together, they weren’t a winning franchise at the time. They had won before, just like the Raiders.

“You’ve got to bring in like-minded people, and I think that’s just what he’s trying to do, is just establish that identity, and that starts with the head coach and the GM, and you go get players that fit them.”

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Devin White, Super Bowl LV

Of course, new head coach Pete Carroll is also one of those “like-minded people” that the Raiders brought in this offseason. Carroll has also set out to change the organization’s culture since taking the job in January, and that was clear to White during his free-agent visit.

“When I came here on a visit, it was the first visit that I decided to take, and Coach Pete was genuine, and I could see the camaraderie he had and what he believed in and what he wanted to do with this organization,” the linebacker explained. “I’m cool with being part of a build, and then when the success happens, I’ll feel like I had a part in it. So, I mean we just hit it off.”

Unsurprisingly, another part of the team’s pitch to White was a meeting with defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and linebackers coach John Glenn.

“With PG, he sat me down, walked me through the defense, showed me how I could be used, and that was very big,” White said. “Because if you’ve got good attributes, you want to be used to help the team, and that’s what type of coach he is. And Coach JG had a lot of energy, and playing for a guy like that makes you want to come to work.”

While it’s still early in the process, the veteran seems to be enjoying his time in Las Vegas since the coaching staff is sticking to what it promised him in the spring.

“I think it’s fun,” White said of the Raiders’ defense at this stage. “I think PG does a good job of putting everybody in position to make plays, and that was one of the biggest things that we talked about. And it could be a lot of smoke until you get in the building.

“Some coaches are like, ‘This is my scheme. Y’all are going to run it.’ He really puts players in a position to do what they do best. So, he’s been standing on his word, and I’ve been loving it. And I think anytime we’ve got a problem, you can go to him. You can watch extra film with him. He don’t mind, he watch ball all day.

“He can tell you everything before you could tell yourself, and so that’s the good thing about him, he cares. Having a defensive coordinator that cares about you, cares about all the players, man that’s a winning program right there.”

Hopefully, the “winning program” in the spring continues into the fall.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/19/24451753/raiders-devin-white-john-spytek-free-agency

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders fan believe in Jordan Meredith

Jordan Meredith | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Fan base thinks he will win guard battle

It seems that one of the Las Vegas Raiders’ biggest positional battles in training camp will be at a guard spot between Dylan Parham and Jordan Parham.

The team appears et at the other interior offensive line spots with second-year player Jackson Powers-Johnson set at center and free-agent addition set at one of the guard spots. So, that leaves the competition between Parham and Meredith.

So, we asked our community members who they think will win the battle in training camp between the two.

Our readers seem pretty sure in their thoughts as 63 percent of the voters think Meredith will prevail in training camp.

Parham, entering the final season of his contract, started 14 games at right guard in 2024. Parham, who turned 26 in August, has 48 starts since being a third-round pick in 2022.

Meredith, 27, played well as an injury replacement last season as he started eight games in the first extensive playing time of his young career.

Our readers believe Meredith is ready to take on a bigger role in 2025.

Here are some of your responses. Sign up and go to the comments section.

Raiders0075
If it was up to me I'd bench Cappa and play them both with Meredith at LG and Parham at RG but I would draft a Parham replacement next year
RaiderCode
There's no battle there. Parham is the starter and Meredith is a backup, albeit a good one, who's under contract control for 2 more years. If Parham walks in FA (likely) next year Meredith will step in as the starter for the next 2 seasons. We have good starters and good players in waiting.
Nunchucks
Meredith all the way!...Solid in both Run game and Pass pro and has the size to handle big Dlineman.​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...edith-dylan-parham-guard-battle-training-camp

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Can you guess this Raiders fullback in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Raiders player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Raiders fans! We’re back for another day of the Silver & Black Pride in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in the Google Form.

Today’s Silver & Black Pride in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Friday, June 20, 2025
Thursday, June 19, 2025
Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Silver and Black Pride in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Raiders player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/21/24453189/sb-nation-raiders-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Will Raiders deploy big nickel formation in 2025?

Veteran safety Jeremy Chinn has the size and speed to be a versatile defender for the Las Vegas Raiders. At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, Chinn can play close to the line of scrimmage but has the 4,45 speed to be a center fielder deep, too. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Presence of Jeremy Chinn, Isaiah Pola-Mao, Lonnie Johnson Jr. makes three-safety alignment possible in Las Vegas

Both head coach Pete Carroll and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham are quite familiar with the “big nickel” formation. Thus, it’s only natural to be curious if the Las Vegas Raiders will deploy more three-safety alignments looks on defense this coming season.

Especially when you dive into the Silver & Black’s additions, retention, and subtractions this offseason.

Gone are former starters Tre’Von Moehrig and Marcus Epps — the duo signed free-agent deals with the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, respectively. Raiders general manager John Spytek, didn’t sit on his laurels, however, as he took input from Carroll and the coaching staff and re-signed Isaiah Pola-Mao while adding Jeremy Chinn and Lonnie Johnson Jr. via free agency to supplement the safety group.

As Las Vegas’ defensive play caller since joining the team in 2022 as part of Josh McDaniels’ coaching staff, Graham deploys the big nickel to take advantage of matchups and create confusion for the opposing offense. In that alignment, a traditional safety slides down into the slot — which is normally reserved for the nickel cornerback.

This hit by Jeremy Chinn

: #ATLvsWAS on NBC/Peacock
: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/USFC28CXxz

— NFL (@NFL) December 30, 2024​

With Carroll as head honcho and being a hands-on type with defensive backs, expect the Raiders defense to not only be aggressive and opportunistic, but versatile in how they operate.

“I’ve never had a head coach really hands on with the DBs, so it’s different for me. But I love it. And at the same time, Pete’s legendary,” Pola-Mao, who signed a two-year, $7.5 million contract extensions with the team back in February, said of the Raiders new head coach. Learning from him, he’s seen it and he’s done it, so he knows what it’s supposed to look like. I’m just learning, listening and trying to take it all in.”

Chinn’s arrival (inked to a two-year, $16.258 million contract with $12.25 million guaranteed at signing) to the desert plays well into a three-safety look as he’s a versatile safety who can play at or near the line of scrimmage, off coverage, or even as the deep center fielder.

According to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden, the Raiders dabbled in the a three-safety alignment at OTAs and mandatory minicamp. This saw Chinn man the slot while Pola-Mao and Johnson served as the back end defenders.

This is a prudent move by the Raiders coaching staff.

The big nickel formation ensures Las Vegas maximizes the return on investments in the coin spent at the safety group and makes opposing offenses devise ways to counteract what’s presented to them. Having players with size and speed in the form of Chinn and Pola-Mao in the slot gives Graham the opportunity to activate them as blitzers to rush the quarterback or help stymie the run. Also, the Raiders lack ideal depth at the nickel cornerback position, thus being flexible in alignments helps with that.

Chinn, who has the ability to hit line a linebacker but has the speed to maintain with even the most fleet-footed receiving options, is embracing the role of chess piece in Las Vegas.

“I think it started really early on in my career, my rookie season,” Chinn said when asked about his versatility and how he handles it. “Just being in a situation where I was asked to do a lot of certain things and just kind of made my mindset like, this is the life of the NFL, like there’s going to be a lot of different roles, a lot of different roles, a lot of different responsibilities. So I just kind of took that and road with it for the rest of my career.”

But he isn’t alone in the versatility department, though.

Pola-Mao has spent ample time being deployed in a similar manner as he’s played at the line of scrimmage in the slot, a de facto linebacker, and deep cover man, too. Johnson, who signed a one-year, $1.685 million deal, is a cornerback-turned-safety who offers position versatility, as well. Thus it made sense to see that trio on the field in the big nickel.

Excited to see Isaiah Pola-Mao build on last Sunday pic.twitter.com/fSPjK60GmI

— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) October 5, 2024​

There’s also Thomas Harper, a second-year undrafted free agent, brings similar skillset — albeit at a much smaller frame than his counterparts — as a safety with slot cornerback potential, too. The 24-year-old stands 5-foot-10 and 195 pounds but was a hybrid at Notre Dame working as both a safety and slot corner due to his instincts and aggressiveness (despite being smaller).

In comparison, the trio of Chinn, Pola-Mao, and Johnson put the “big” in big nickel at 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, and 6-foot-2 and 213 pounds, respectively.

The Raiders also have Chris Smith II and Trey Taylor in the safety room, both were late-round picks by the former regimes. Smith arrived as a fifth-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft while Taylor was the seventh-round pick in the 2024 draft. And if the group follows through on Carroll’s compete mantra, the group should shape itself out and bring the best out of one another.

But it’s no surprise to hear Graham speak on the leadership Chinn has brought to the Raiders secondary. At age 27 and heading into his sixth year in the NFL, he’s the second oldest and second-most experienced safety only behind Johnson (who is 29 and heading into Year 7).

“It starts off, I would say, with Jeremy — the leadership, I don’t know if you guys got a chance to talk to him, but just in terms of his leadership, he’s very sure of himself, because he puts in the work,” Graham noted. “Self-confidence comes from preparation; it’s not a self-esteem thing or self-talk thing. When you’re prepared, you’re really, really confident. That’s what I see from him. And he’s been a sponge in terms of learning how we want to do things, and then all the physical attributes, but all 32 teams know about that. The speed, the size, physicality, ability to tackle, nose for the ball. So, I mean, it’s all been positive there.”

As a 17-game starter in 2024 for the Washington Commanders, Chinn logged 1,021 snaps (94 percent of the team’s total defensive snaps) and racked up 117 total tackles, two sacks, one interception, five pass breakups, one forced fumble while recovering two fumbles. He also logged 179 special teams snaps showcasing his willingness to help the team in a variety of ways.

Like Graham, Pola-Mao is appreciative of what Chinn brings to the table and is eager to see if the progress made this offseason results in prime production this coming season.

“Yeah, Chinn is a funny guy, man. When his helmet comes on, he kind of flips that switch, like he goes in that mode where he’s locked in,” Pola-Mao said. “So having him on the field, it kind of puts me at ease, because I know he’s locked in, and he knows what he’s doing. It just puts me at ease, like I said, and we can play faster.”

Lonnie Johnson Jr. takes a ride with me as we talk about Pete Carroll, his first impression of #RaiderNation and his desire to compete with the best in the league.

Raiders Morning Commute out now https://t.co/sqkRKygtLV pic.twitter.com/FU1g8kS6pY

— Levi Edwards (@theleviedwards) May 2, 2025​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/21/24451576/raiders-2025-defense-big-nickel-jeremy-chinn

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

If Pete Carroll can’t get best out of Tyree Wilson, then no one can

This is the third Las Vegas Raiders regime that gets its hands on Tyree Wilson. That said, if new head coach Pete Carroll is unable to get the best out of the seventh overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, then no one can. | Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Las Vegas Raiders head coach is a hands-on type and gives third-year defensive end a quality teacher

The first step in solving any problem is to define said issue clearly.

Tyree Wilson, the Las Vegas Raiders’ No. 7 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, readily recognizes the underlying problem that he faces as an underproductive top 10 draft pick.

“Man, going back looking at my previous two years, first year, foot injury. I got in, took a lot time away from ball and it just went fast. It was a blur. Last year, I started started to grow, started to feel the game starting to slow down a little bit,” Wilson explained after the Raiders’ mandatory minicamp a week ago. “But the twitch and the reaction, it wasn’t there all the way. It started to develop after the bye. Now I’m just coming in and it started in OTAs and transitions to camp and then into the season.”

You don’t need to be a football afficionado or junkie to discern Wilson’s reaction time issues. The naked eye could see how tardy he was in terms of both anticipation and action at the snap when compared to other Raiders on the defensive line.

The 25-year-old Texas Tech product has always looked the part standing 6-foot-6 and 275 pounds. That’s elite size and his 35 5/8-inch arms give him an ungodly wingspan too boot. However, like the old saying goes “looks like Tarzan and plays like Jane” has been the tale of Wilson’s career thus far.

As our Matt Holder explored earlier this week, Wilson is looking to ‘shut everyone up’ in Year 3. With a storied and vastly experienced defensive-minded head coach Pete Carroll now leading the Raiders, Wilson gets a hands-on type that’s a quality teacher.

“Man, this is the biggest year,” Wilson said during his media session after the Raiders’ mandatory minicamp session last week. “I feel like it’s no pressure, it’s just feel like I got my feet under me. My teammates are counting on me and the team’s counting on me. So, yeah, that’s a big year.”

But let’s put it plainly: If Carroll can’t get the most out of Wilson, then no one can.

Adam Butler HATES practice bags

The #Raiders' starting DT in #69 looked a little different than his teammates in a pass rush drill when punishing this poor tackling dummy. pic.twitter.com/30CWv3AexM

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) June 11, 2025​

Of course, Carroll won’t be alone in this. Raiders Defensive line boss (and defensive run game coordinator) Rob Leonard plays a huge part. As does defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. But it’s Carroll who is setting the tone for the Silver & Black. And seeing the 73-year-old exhibit uncanny energy (he even pinned offensive lineman Thayer Munford Jr. before a team session), there’s little to no excuse for players to show signs of fatigue or being gassed.

Carroll’s exuberance is breathing new life in Las Vegas, however.

“Yeah, you reading me right. It starts from the top. Pete comes in here with a great mindset, great attitude and he pours it into the team,” Wilson noted. “And all the coaches want to be here, all the coaches want to have fun, and it just makes it fun for all the players.”

In that same vein, Wilson appears to be pouring himself into the Raiders heading into critical Year 3.

Long billed as a raw but powerful prospect, Wilson’s initial season was dampened by his recovery from a collegiate foot injury. His second season in 2024 saw him unable to claim the starting job outright opposite Maxx Crosby — even with the team losing edge rusher Malcolm Koonce to a season-ending knee injury. Wilson was a rotational type that shuttled in and out with K’Lavon Chaisson and Charles Snowden.

Wilson logged 525 snaps in 2024 compiling 27 total tackles with 4.5 sacks. Chaisson (who signed with the New England Patriots this offseason) earned 508 snaps and finished with 32 total tackles and five sacks. Snowden, meanwhile, netted 406 snaps and tallied 39 total tackles and 1.5 sacks. With Chaisson gone and Koonce back in the mix, Wilson is needs an impressive offseason to once again carve out a role.

The all-22 of Tyree Wilson's speed-to-power rush gives you an idea of how toolsy he is https://t.co/GJ9gmNLWtI pic.twitter.com/WLGXdzA4Ev

— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) August 27, 2023​

Despite not having eye-popping statistics in his first two season in the NFL, there was incremental improvement from Wilson from 2023 to 2024.

His sack totals from his rookie year to sophomore campaign went from 3.5 to 4.5. And according to Pro Football Reference, Wilson showed an uptick in tackles for loss (six in 2024 to just two in 2023), quarterback hits (10 compared to eight), pressures (17 from 11), and hurries (seven from three).

But, as Wilson readily admits, more is expected out of a No. 7 overall selection. He explained that each prospect has a different timeline and circumstances can dictate a lot. But he’s nose to the grindstone this offseason with eyes on making an impact for the Carroll-led Raiders.

“So I feel like everybody has a different timeline and my timeline is different. I feel like this year is the year that you got to go out there and show and shut everybody up,” Wilson said. “Not that, that matters. What matters is the teammates and whoever’s around me.”

Defensive tackle Adam Butler, who inked a three-year, $16.5 million contract this offseason, took Wilson under his wing and noted the defensive end is working on becoming an all-around edge defender rather than the one-dimensional rusher he’s been since joining the Raiders.

“Man, first off, being consistent running to the ball. I’m trying to get my cardio up to be able to be on the field longer, to be around the ball, to make more plays, but then just being versatile,” Wilson expanded. “Last year you saw me outside, inside and just really try to make my game more efficient inside working more edge moves, counter moves, and not just be a power guy, which I always had in my bag.”

It seems Malcolm Koonce is back up and running at practice following his season derailing knee injury last season.#Raiders pic.twitter.com/ibob4CFxvS

— Levi Edwards (@theleviedwards) May 29, 2025​

An eclectic toolkit where Wilson can exhibit hand-fighting, counter moves, and efficient lateral quickness while maintaining the explosive natural power he has would be quite advantageous for the Raiders defensive line.

Koonce, who signed a one-year, $11 million deal (with $10.2 million guaranteed), is back and at full health and the 6-foot-3 and 250-pound 27-year-old brings a quality rush toolbox in his arsenal. He can convert speed to power despite being smaller than both Wilson and Maxx Crosby (6-foot-5, 255). A third-round pick in the 2021 draft, Koonce exploded for eight sacks and 43 tackles in 2023. While the Raiders eye a return to form from Koonce, Wilson can carve his niche showcasing an improved overall skillset.

And that continues in earnest mid-July when Las Vegas reconvenes for all-important training camp. That’ll be when the pads come on and we get to see the the demarcation line between contenders and pretenders.

“I’m pleased with his work ethic, too. He’s been trying some new things. I won’t go into detail on that, but he’s been trying some new things and really being intentional about his work as well,” Butler said of Wilson. “So, I hope everything works out for him. As long as he keeps working, I believe he’ll surprise you.”

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/22/24451582/raiders-2025-tyree-wilson-defensive-end

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

DJ Glaze impressing Raiders coaching staff heading into Year 2

The Las Vegas Raiders’ DJ Glaze heads into his second year in the NFL. The Maryland product appears to be locked in as the starting right tackle in 2025. | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Maryland product appears locked in to be the starting right tackle once more

Quietly going about an NFL career can sometimes be viewed as a negative. The lack of bombastic headlines or spotlight plays hitting both social media and various sports networks can make it seem mundane.

Yet, for DJ Glaze quiet is modus operandi.

The Las Vegas Raiders’ third-round pick (77th overall) in the 2024 NFL Draft came in as a 21-year-old rookie last offseason and simply went to work. There was no boisterous claim, no emphatic arrival. The Maryland product put his nose to the grindstone and earned the starting right tackle spot — supplanting Thayer Munford Jr., who was though to have the spot initially, but got hurt.

Thayer never earned the job back.

Instead, the 6-foot-4 and 323-pound Glaze took command of the spot in Week 3, and after playing nearly 97 percent of the offensive snaps in the 36-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers, he went on to play 100 percent of the snaps at right tackle from then on staring 14 games while playing in all 17 his rookie year.

The newest episode of TDL with @MHolder95 just dropped featuring Germaine Pratt and DJ Glaze.

Check it out below and subscribe!https://t.co/hekvGwIGeA pic.twitter.com/aKEHtXA7D0

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) June 16, 2025​

Now, Glaze heads into Year 2 with a new regime — head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek — and the former Terrapin is doing what he does best: Quietly impressing yet another coaching staff.

“Saw a lot out of DJ Glaze. I thought he’d had a really, really good offseason with us. He looks like he’s ready to go,” Carroll said of Glaze’s performances in both OTAs and mandatory minicamp earlier this month. “He’s a second-year guy, and guys go from year one to year two, and they have the ability to make a big jump, because they’re through the rookie haze, and he’s shown that. So, it looks like a good, solid group.”

Over the course of the Raiders June mandatory minicamp (June 10 through 12), Las Vegas’ first five offensive line read: Kolton Miller at left tackle, Dylan Parham and Jordan Meredith rotating at left guard, Jackson Powers-Johnson at center, Alex Cappa at right guard, and Glaze manning right tackle.

While the groupings can always fluctuate — especially when the Silver & Black reconvene for training camp as a whole group on June 22 (rookies report July 17) — it’s difficult to see either Miller or Glaze displaced from their respective tackle spots. Ditto for Powers-Johnson.

In fact, it’s Miller who summed up how Glaze is operating in Year 2.

“DJ, when he stepped in here, first day of training camp I noticed the maturity he brought,” Raiders starting left tackle said of his counterpart on the right side. “Going into one-on-ones, and taking what he learned from OTAs to training camp, and he’s done the same thing - the whole O-line has been here this offseason. It’s been awesome. He’s going to continue to improve, and I’m excited to see where he ends up.”

"It is a sign of belief."

With the starting job his to lose, #Raiders RT DJ Glaze was ready to 'do what I do regardless' but understands his opportunity after the new regime waited until late 3rd round to draft a tackle despite perceived positional need. @KTNV pic.twitter.com/T7qzx6kkNS

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) June 13, 2025​

Interestingly enough, several analysts and draft pundits highlighted the right tackle position as one of need in both free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft. But the Raiders didn’t address the tackle spot until the third round in William & Mary’s Charles Grant, nabbed with the 99th overall pick. A small-school standout, Grant is considered accomplished but raw and likely needs some development to match NFL competition. (He’s also spent his entire collegiate career as a blindside protector on the left).

Thus, it’s easy to see why Glaze is lead dog on the right side. Viewed as a swing tackle-type heading into the 2024 draft — he started at left and right tackle in 2023 and then full blindside in 2024 — and a prospect that likely needs to shift to guard to become an NFL starter, Glaze has scuttled those notions — thus far. And he, along with the group that represented the first five up front are assimilating to Carroll’s coaching staff.

“They’ve done a really solid job, really worked on their technique, really working on the things that you can work on. You can’t work on the physical part of it as much as you would like other than sleds and bags and stuff like that,” Carroll said. “But (offensive line coach/offensive run game coordinator) BC (Brennan Carroll; Pete’s son) has done a really nice job of getting all these guys to look uniformed. They step really well. Their hand placement is really good. Communication seems to be sharp. You know, (offensive coordinator) Chip’s (Kelly) got a really in depth, busy plan that we asked these guys to embrace. Fortunately, (quarterback) Geno (Smith) is kind of the run coordinator on the field, and he changes the things and does the things that we need to do. All of that has worked together really well. So, it looks like a good, solid group. We have good leadership.”

Despite being only 22 and heading into his second season in the NFL, Glaze’s ability to go about his work without much fanfare and often being overlooked can be looked at as a beacon of light to follow for other offensive linemen on the Raiders roster.

There’s always room for improvement and when you look at Glaze from a grades perspective — Pro Football Reference assessed him with a 66.1 overall mark (50th out of 140 tackles) with 61.9 pass blocking grade (79th) and 69.4 run blocking grade (46th). The group also charted Glaze with three sacks allowed (77th) while Pro Football Reference tagged the right tackle with eight overall penalties (six holding, two false starts).

Come training camp and the pads come on, we’ll get to see just how much Glaze has refined his game heading into an important inaugural campaign for the Raiders under Carroll and Spytek.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/23/24451591/raiders-2025-offense-dj-glaze-right-tackle

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Von Miller as a Raider? Fans say why not?

Von Miller | Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

Fans vote to bring in veteran pass-rusher

Perhaps fans of the Las Vegas Raiders have seen Von Miller wreck shop as an opponent for more than a decade, they are ready for him to join their side.

We recently asked our community members if they would be on board if the Raiders were t sign Miller.

In a poll with nearly 500 votes cast, 65 percent of the voters were good with the idea, while 35 percent think Miller, 36, can’t help the Raiders much at this point. The future Pro Football Hall of Fame pass-rusher recently said he fully plans to play during the 2025 NFL season. Miller says he can bring value as a locker-room leader and as a rotational pass-rusher to a franchise.

I get can never have enough pass-rushers and the Raiders could use be a solid rotational piece behind starting defensive ends Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce along with Tyree Wilson.

So, I understand why fans would want to see Miller join the Silver and the Black, but, at this point, I’m not sure how much he can help.

Here are some of your responses. Sign up and go to the comments section.

Raiderlifer'68
I'd rather see what J. Joyner has to offer, not to mention this will be Tyree's last chance...
SnB Stop the Run
No. If this was a team pushing a Super Bowl run, I'd consider it.
It's far more important to make sure young guys are getting the snaps, even in rotation.
belenraider63
take players to play, and coaches to coach...........
locker room presence ? nah people listen to current starters, they avoid
has beens, no one wants to hear it...........true in sports, true in medicine,
true in any field.....
If he wants to be a mentor, retire and take coaching salary...
Tired of Raiders always the team linked to older once great players looking for us to punch final meal ticket...............let the friken broncos' contribute to his retirement....we owe him nothing, and nothing
is what he would give us on the field​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/25/24446175/raiders-von-miller-free-agent-pass-rusher

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Miller embracing leadership role, impressed by young OL

Kolton Miller, Jackson Powers-Johnson | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

The left tackle spoke highly of Jackson Powers-Johnson, DJ Glaze, Caleb Rogers, Charles Grant

Heading into the 2025 season, the Las Vegas Raiders are expected to have a young offensive line. Three out of five projected starters are still on their rookie contracts. Plus, if Dylan Parham and Jordan Meredith beat out Alex Cappa for the two guard spots during training camp, 80 percent of the first-string unit will have less than four years of experience.

But the one mainstay in the trenches whose job isn’t in jeopardy this fall is left tackle Kolton Miller. The 2018 first-round pick is about to enter his eighth year in the NFL, making him one of the most experienced players on the roster.

Only three players on the roster—quarterback Geno Smith (13 years), running back Raheem Mostert (11 years) and linebacker Elandon Roberts (10 years)—have spent more time in the league than Miller. Also, he and kicker Daniel Carlson are the longest tenured Raiders on the roster.

Naturally, that pushes the veteran offensive lineman into a leadership role on the team, especially within his position group. So far, he’s been embracing that responsibility while grooming second-year center Jackson Powers-Johnson to eventually take over as the captain of the line.

“I’ve had a lot of great mentorships in that,” Powers-Johnson replied when asked about becoming a leader on the team. “I’ve been with Maxx [Crosby] all offseason and seeing how he handles things and trying to manage that as much as possible. I also got vets in the room with Alex Cappa and Kolton Miller, so seeing how they lead, seeing how they go and just trying to replicate that.”

Naturally, Miller was asked about the young center’s comments and what he’s seen from the second-year pro since the team returned to the Intermountain Health Performance Center at the beginning of April.

“So when you look at rookies, especially after the first year, you want to see what they do in the offseason. What path are they taking? Are you going to get better? Or are you going to try to take some time off?” the left tackle explained.

“No, Jackson, what he did, he put in the work this offseason. He’s dropped some weight, he’s looking really good. He’s been working with Maxx Crosby, and that’s the right way to do things. I think he’s a prime example of how to do it, and I’m looking forward to the jump he makes this year.”

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Jackson Powers-Johnson, OTAs

As the unit’s leader, the 29-year-old who turns 30 in October, also shared some thoughts on how the rookies within his position group have looked so far during the early practices in Las Vegas.

“I think this rookie class all around; they come in with a sense of maturity. They’re listening, they’re looking ways to improve every day,” Miller said of the 2025 draft class, including third-round picks Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant. “Charles and Caleb, they’re great examples. They’re taking a step each day, and you can see the focus and the work after practice. They’re doing it the right way.”

The left tackle shared similar thoughts on second-year pro and returning starting right tackle DJ Glaze.

“DJ, when he stepped in here, first day of training camp I noticed the maturity he brought,” Miller explained. “Going into one-on-ones, and taking what he learned from OTAs to training camp, and he’s done the same thing - the whole O-line has been here this offseason. It’s been awesome. He’s going to continue to improve, and I’m excited to see where he ends up.”

While rookie running back Ashton Jeanty won’t be in the trenches, he and Miller will have a co-dependent relationship moving forward. The running back can’t have much success without the offensive line creating holes, and the line looks bad if the offense isn’t moving the ball on the ground.

So, the tackle’s initial impressions of the No. 6 overall pick carry significant weight, making the comments below more encouraging.

“He’s such a strong and dynamic back,” Miller said of Jeanty. “I mean, the way his cuts are so smooth, even if he gets hit, he’s still balanced, and that’s super unique. He can’t show his full ability right now, but off the field, he’s very mature. He’s a family guy, he brings great energy, and it shows. A lot of maturity for his age. I’m so excited to block for him.”

With some downtime between now and his eighth training camp, the next big item on Miller’s to-do list this summer is to iron out a contract extension with the organization. He’s entering the final year of a three-year, $54 million deal, which served as his second contract with the club.

Miller didn’t share any details about how the current negotiations are going, but was asked if he wants to be part of what new head coach Pete Carroll and Co. are building and replied: “I want to be a Raider for life.”

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-johnson-dj-glaze-caleb-rogers-charles-grant

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Is Jeanty already top RB in AFC West?

Ashton Jeanty | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

How does the rookie stack up to the rest of the running backs in the division?

Silver and Black Pride is continuing its annual summer tradition of ranking players in the AFC West for each position group to see where the Las Vegas Raiders stand heading into the 2025 season. The quarterbacks were up first, and now it’s time to stay in the offensive backfield and look at the running backs.

This is an interesting position group for the Raiders as rookie Ashton Jeanty is expected to receive the lion’s share of the carries in Las Vegas this fall. The No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft has plenty of talent and potential, but is that enough to unseat the other backs in the division?

1. Najee Harris, Los Angeles Chargers​

2024 Stats: 263 carries, 1,043 yards (4.0 ypc), 6 TDs

At a position where availability and consistency are often hard to come by with one player, it’s a mystery why the perception of Harris isn’t higher. All the guy has done since entering the league four years ago is play in 17 games and rush for over 1,000 yards every season. Yet many seem to dismiss Harris, and he was only able to garner a one-year, $5.25 million contract in the offseason. Regardless, the former Steeler has done enough to earn the top spot among AFC West running backs heading into the season. Granted, Omarion Hampton is projected to put up a strong fight for the Chargers’ starting running back spot this fall.

2. J.K. Dobbins, Denver Broncos​

2024 Stats: 195 carries, 905 yards (4.6 ypc), 9 TDs

Dobbins is the most interesting/confusing running back in the AFC West. He’s been productive when healthy, but the latter part of that statement has been a major problem throughout his career. The Ohio State product has missed more games than he’s played in, sitting out 47 contests and participating in 37. Even in a bounce-back campaign where he finished second in Comeback Player of the Year voting, Dobbins was inactive for four weeks. If the Charger-turned-Bronco can stay healthy in 2025, he could lead the division in rushing yards.

3. Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs​

Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images
Isiah Pacheco

2024 Stats: 83 carries, 310 yards (3.7 ypc), 1 TD

Heading into the 2024 season, Pacheco was the No. 1 running back in the division. However, he slid down a couple of spots after missing 10 games due to injury and recording a career low 3.7 yards per carry. Still, the 2022 seventh-round pick has a large enough body of work to gain some respect in this year’s preseason rankings after logging over 2,100 yards from scrimmage and 14 total touchdowns during his first two years in the league.

4. Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders​

2024 Stats (college): 374 carries, 2,601 yards (7.0 ypc), 29 TDs

To be clear, while there are some projections involved with these preseason rankings, what each player has done in the NFL carries more weight. That’s why the two rookies are head of the backups listed in the ‘honorable mention’ category, but are below the proven veteran starters. So, Jeanty could quickly climb up this list with a strong start to the campaign, and most expect that to happen. But, until then, he has to prove himself.

5. Omarion Hampton, Chargers​

2024 Stats (college): 281 carries, 1,660 yards (5.9 ypc), 15 TDs

Like the Boise State product, Hampton has a chance to quickly move up the ranks among AFC West running backs. Beating out Harris for the starting job during training camp would be a great first step, and the North Carolina product has the talent to make that a reality. It’s just a matter of how quickly he can adjust to the NFL.

Honorable Mentions: Raheem Mostert (LV), Audric Estime (DEN), Kareem Hunt (KC), R.J. Harvey (DEN)

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-ashton-jeanty-afc-west-running-back-rankings

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Mailbag: What position groups will have most competitive battles in training camp?

Darien Porter | Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images

Returning Raider Nation’s questions for the week

We have a slightly shorter mailbag for this week as the Las Vegas Raiders are on a break and not much is going on across the NFL during the downtime. That said, training camp isn’t too far away, meaning a few spots on the Raiders’ roster and depth chart will be up for grabs, and that’s this week’s focus.

Q: Which Raiders position groups are gonna offer the fiercest competitions during training camp?

A: Guard, cornerback and linebacker.

While it appears that Alex Cappa is the heavy favorite to be the right guard, I think both starting guard spots are up for grabs. There will be four contenders with Dylan Parham, Jordan Meredith and Thayer Munford Jr. getting reps inside during OTAs. Meredith will be an interesting guy to watch this summer since he played well in the second half of last season, while Parham is a decent starter and Munford is the wildcard, having played tackle the last three years.

Corner is a wide-open competition where we could be in for a surprise. A lot of people are expecting Jakorian Bennett to be one of the two starters, but Bennett primarily worked with the second team this spring while free-agent signing Eric Stokes took the starting reps. Then there's the ultra-talented Darien Porter, who will be a starter at some point, and it will be interesting to see how Decamerion Richardson progresses in year two. Finally, the nickelback spot is wide open as well.

Germaine Pratt’s signing might take out some of the drama at linebacker, as I’d expect Pratt and Elandon Roberts to be the Week 1 starters on early downs. But it is a pretty open competition in training camp where Devin White, Tommy Eichenberg, Amari Gainer and Cody Lindenberg could make a push.

FullyMan
Jakorian(?)Bennett has been running with the 2s.
Do you know if he's been strictly on the outside, or have they tried him out in the slot? Experiment with him if you will.​

A: From what I understand, Bennett has been on the outside. I do like the idea of trying him in the slot, though.

Size-wise, that’s a better fit for him since he lacks length, and I think he has quickness to be an effective nickelback in coverage. Tackling would be an issue, though, as that’s been one of Bennett’s biggest weaknesses over the last two years.

Additionally, the Maryland product did take some reps on the inside in college. That being said, the majority of his experience is on the boundary.

The3rdMacManusBrother
Give us your top 9 Oline guys as I imagine they don’t keep more than that other than a couple on the PS. And in that same vein give the 8 or 9 Dline guys you think make the roster. And as a final kinda question do you think they look for any help in those areas from outside the team?​

A: Offensive line: Kolton Miller, Parham, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Alex Cappa, DJ Glaze, Jordan Meredith, Caleb Rogers, Charles Grant and Munford.

I don’t think there will be too much drama on the o-line since Miller, JPJ and Glaze are solidified starters while Parham, Cappa and Meredith should all at least make the team. And the two third-round picks aren’t getting cut. Munford is the one who I could see being a surprise cut if the coaching staff thinks Grant is ready for swing tackle duties. That could pave the way for Will Putnam or Jarrod Hufford to earn a roster spot.

Defensive line: Maxx Crosby, Adam Butler, Christian Wilkins (if healthy), Malcolm Koonce, Leki Fotu, Tonka Hemingway, JJ Pegues, Tyree Wilson and Jah Joyner.

The d-line has some drama to it, where we’ll get at least one surprise cut, especially if Wilkins is healthy and doesn’t begin the campaign on PUP. Zach Carter and Jonah Laulu are a couple of good defensive tackles who I could also see making the team. Additionally, Joyner could be swapped out for Charles Snowden as the third-down pass-rusher off the bench. What this all points to is Wilson entering training camp on the chopping block.

As far as free agency goes, maybe the Raiders add a veteran offensive tackle if the coaching staff doesn’t want to keep Munford and wants to avoid having to throw Grant into the fire. But I get the feeling the team is going to roll into camp with the guys they have and, based on how the practices go, maybe make an addition toward the end of the summer.

asa1658
You are the offensive line coach. I'm assuming the starting 5 are your call. Who are they?​

A: Miller (LT), Meredith (LG), Powers-Johnson (C), Parham (RG) and Glaze (RT).

I get why Cappa is considered the starter right now, because he’s a veteran and a good communicator to help make sure the young line is all on the same page. But Meredith impressed me last season and, right now at least, I’m willing to bet that he’ll pick up where he left off. Plus, Meredith is younger than Cappa and thus has more potential or upside. Also, even dating back to his college days, Parham has been much better on the right than the left.

Q: Update on Wilkins? Haven’t heard anything since the team wants him to have another surgery, which would cost him another year.

A: Silver and Black Pride’s Bill Williamson provided an update on Wilkins in the post below. There hasn’t been any new official news or reports on whether he’ll need a second surgery, as that’s just a rumor right now. But Wilkins was seen in a walking boot recently, which isn’t a comforting sight. I’d still wait until training camp starts or we get an official report on the defensive tackle’s foot before getting too concerned, though.

DaysofOld
Can you use stem cell treatment for foot injuries and is it legal for NFL players to use?​

A: NFL players can use stem cells. Business Insider wrote an article about it in 2023, where George Kittle openly admitted to using stem cells.

The four-time Pro Bowler even credited the treatment for expediting his recovery after fracturing his foot during the 2020 season. Though he was told it would take him six to eight weeks to get back on the field, Kittle manage to rejoin his team in just five weeks.

“Stem cells,” he said, made a huge difference.

Stem cell therapy for the treatment of sports injuries is not FDA approved in the United States, hence why Kittle must travel thousands of miles for his annual dose.

Even still, there’s a growing body of research indicating that stem cells may help restore and regenerate damaged tissues in joints. And while such treatments are not authorized stateside, they’re not banned by the NFL.

So, I’m sure this question was primarily a joke, but you might be onto something here!

Indy!
What are your thoughts on bringing aboard some of these FA vets like Jalen Ramsey?​

A: For a second, I didn’t think I was going to get an opportunity to do my weekly call for Las Vegas to bring Mike Hilton in. So...MIKE HILTON!!!!

As far as Jalen Ramsey goes, he’s still under contract with the Miami Dolphins, and I don’t see John Spytek giving up draft picks to get a 30-year-old corner who turns 31 in October and is on an expensive contract. If Ramsey gets traded anywhere, I think it’s to go back to the Los Angeles Rams.

AAAA54
Which game do the Raiders win that their not supposed to this upcoming season?​

A: I’ll go with Week 15 on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles. Obviously, most people are going to favor the defending champs at this stage. But the Eagles lost a lot on defense this offseason, so I don’t think they’ll be as good this year, and Pete Carroll has a good track record on those Eastern Time Zone road trips.

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That’ll do it for this week’s mailbag. Thank you all for submitting questions and, as your weekly reminder, if you’d like to have your questions answered in a future column, tweet them at me, @MHolder95, email them to [email protected] or look for our weekly call for questions on the site. The latter will continue to publish on Thursdays. Sign up and go to the comments section.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...aiders-mailbag-training-camp-position-battles

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Can you guess this Raiders DB in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Raiders player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Raiders fans! We’re back for another day of the Silver & Black Pride in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in the Google Form.

Today’s Silver & Black Pride in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Saturday, June 28, 2025
Friday, June 27, 2025
Thursday, June 26, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Silver and Black Pride in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Raiders player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/29/24458273/sb-nation-raiders-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Carving out a roster spot will be uphill climb for Raiders’ Tank Booker

Defensive tackle Anthony “Tank” Booker Jr. looks to apply a stiff arm as he returns a fumble for a touchdown for SMU back in late August. Booker brings prototypical nose tackle size at 6-foot-3 and 347 pounds to the Las Vegas Raiders. | Photo by Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Undrafted free agent brings prototypical nose tackle size to Las Vegas

On sheer size alone, Anthony “Tank” Booker Jr. will get your attention.

At 6-foot-3 and 347 pounds, the SMU product is built like a prototypical nose tackle that can be plopped on any NFL defensive line. That height and weight drew the Las Vegas Raiders eyes as the Mustang’s graduate student signed as an undrafted free agent with the Silver & Black after the 2025 NFL Draft.

But even with that ideal size, Tank finds himself in an uphill climb to make the Raiders roster.

By The Numbers
Anthony Booker Jr., Defensive Tackle, SMU

• 2024: 13 games, 17 total tackles (5 solo), 3 tackles for loss, 1 fumble recovery (returned for touchdown)
• Career (2019-24): 54 games, 82 total tackles (42 solo), 2.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 1 pass deflection, 1 fumble recovery 9returend for touchdown), 2 forced fumbles

One potential SMU diamond in the rough from Pro Day yesterday? DL Anthony "Tank" Booker.

The 6-foot-3 nose tackle weighed in at 346 lbs and jumped 29 inches in the vertical jump. The Maryland and Arkansas transfer can clog the middle and show some athleticism, too. pic.twitter.com/oZmcrK3GQj

— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) March 25, 2025​

Las Vegas’ depth at nose tackle was questionable heading into the offseason under a new regime captained by general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll. John Jenkins, who manned the nose on the Raiders defensive line at 6-foot-3 and 326 pounds, has since signed with the Baltimore Ravens. And replacing his output is going to be a challenge as Jenkins was not only the big-bodied, tough space-eating defensive tackle, he was very productive with 107 total tackles (37 solo), seven tackles for loss, two sacks, six pass deflections, and a fumble recover (returned for a touchdown) in his two season in the desert from 2023 to 2024.

While Jenkins is long in the tooth at 35 years of age, he was a 34-game starter with the Raiders. And that’s nothing to scoff at.

Needing to shore up that particular spot on the interior defensive line, Spytek inked Leki Fotu to a one-year, $1.4-plus million contract in free agency. The 26-year-old veteran brings a strong 6-foot-5 and 335 pound frame to Las Vegas and has the experience and physicality to be a force on the middle.

While Fotu is more slender than the average 330-plus pound defensive tackle (he doesn’t have the pronounced gut many other nose tackles sport), the Oakland-native has the core strength to anchor and be an immovable and powerful type on the interior. And it’s no surprise to see the veteran heading into his sixth season in the NFL (drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 draft by the Arizona Cardinals) out in front when it comes to the nose tackle spot this offseason.

Adam Butler said the #Raiders DT group has had a "next man up" mentality with Christian Wilkins out. He's been the primary three-technique with Leki Fotu leading the way at nose tackle.

— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) June 11, 2025​

On redundancy alone, Booker has a plausible track to crack the Raiders roster. No other defensive lineman is close in weight. And Booker has plenty of collegiate game experience as his 54 career games were spread at Maryland (2020-22), Arkansas (2023) and finally SMU (2024). His most productive statistical season arrived in 2022 when he racked up 27 total tackles (17 solo), two sacks, five tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles.

While unlocking consistency will be key — this is true for other rookies on the Raiders roster, however — Booker has the ability to anchor and occupy multiple blockers with his height and weight.

But not only does Booker have Fotu in front of him, Las Vegas also snagged Ole Miss’ JJ Pegues in the sixth round (180th overall) in the 2025 draft. The Mississippi-native is an intriguing defensive tackle who lined up all along the Running Rebels’ defensive line and, at 6-foot-2 and 309 pounds, he has the build to line up at nose in the NFL. Pegues is quick off the ball and has light feet which are effective as both defender and occasional ball carrier.

Once Pegues refines his technique against double teams, his rare change of direction quickness is going to stand out.

The #Raiders just got maybe the second most versatile player in the draft in Ole Miss DT/FB JJ Pegues.

He finished top-10 in pressures in the country this year on a loaded Ole Miss DL room.

He had rushing TDs this year too (and had 55 pass/run blocking snaps).

At… pic.twitter.com/8TE2YkVTGd

— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) April 26, 2025​

Fellow 2025 draft classmate, Tonka Hemingway — taken in the fourth round (135th overall) — wasn’t lined up over the center at South Carolina much, but the rookie has similar position versatility in the trenches and has the hybrid defensive end/tackle build at 6-foot-2 and 284 pounds.

Thus, there’s plenty of competition and options Las Vegas can look at to fill the void left by Jenkins.

What’ll help Booker’s roster chances are a strong training camp when the Raiders reconvene in mid-July. That’s when the pads will come on and the coaching staff get to see who are the warriors in shorts vs the standouts when things become real.

Also, if premiere defensive tackle Christian Wilkins continues to miss time with his foot ailment, that’ll open up snaps and a potential roster spot if the veteran can’t get to 100 percent before the regular season arrives.

Either way, Tank is in the driver seat of his roster spot chances. And it’s up to him to see if he can tread towards a roster spot or get lost in the shuffle despite having ideal size.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/6/29/24456426/raiders-2025-tank-booker-defensive-tackle

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Rich Gannon or Derek Carr for Raiders’ quarterback on 2000s All-Quarter Century Team?

Derek Carr | Photo by Gaelen Morse/Getty Images

Time to settle a debate in Raider Nation

This summer, Silver and Black Pride is putting together the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders All-Quarter Century Team for the 2000s with the help of our fan community. The process is simple, we’ll go through each position with a few nominees, outline the case for each player and include a poll at the bottom of each article where you can vote for your choice.

All the winners will be announced with a post for the entire All-Quarter Century team once each poll is completed.

Up first is a spirited debate within Raider Nation: Who was the Raiders’ best quarterback of the last 25 years, Rich Gannon or Derek Carr?

Rich Gannon​

Rich Gannon

Raiders Stats: 62.6% completion percentage, 17,585 passing yards, 114 passing TDs, 50 INTs, 1,258 rushing yards, 11 rushing touchdowns (6 seasons, 74 games)

Accolades: MVP (2002), 2x First-Team All-Pro (2000, 2002), 4x Pro Bowl (1999-2002)

In a way, Gannon embodied what it means to be a Raider. He was castaway by three other teams before joining the Silver and Black, and was on his last legs in the NFL when he headed to Oakland. Despite that, Gannon became the franchise’s most decorated quarterback of the last 25 years with the accolades mentioned above, and he led the organization to its most recent Super Bowl appearance. Granted, one of the Pro Bowl campaigns came outside of the 2000s, but the former MVP’s resume is pretty strong even without that All-Star appearance.

Derek Carr​

Raiders Stats: 64.6% completion percentage, 35,222 passing yards, 217 passing touchdowns, 99 INTs, 845 rushing yards, 6 rushing TDs (9 seasons, 142 games)

Accolades: 4x Pro Bowl (2015-2017, 2022)

If we’re going by numbers, Carr is the clear choice as the franchise’s passing leader in yards and touchdowns. The Raiders cycled through several quarterbacks after Gannon retired, where it was rare if one player began and ended the season as the team’s starter. But the 2014 second-round pick from Fresno State put an end to that, serving as the Silver and Black’s starting QB for nearly a decade. Carr also helped end the longest playoff drought in franchise history (14 years) during the 2016 campaign, and led the team through the tumultuous 2021 season to make the postseason for a second time.

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So, which quarterback are you going with for the Raiders’ 2000s All-Quarter Century Team?

Vote in the poll below and sound off in the comments section with your reasoning. If you don’t have a commenting account already, you’ll need to create one but the steps are pretty easy and it’s a seamless process. Also, we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines. Sign up and go to the comments section.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...er-century-quarterback-rich-gannon-derek-carr

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Dolphins indeed trade for former Raiders tight end

Darren Waller at a Raiders’ game in 2024 | Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images

It’s Darren Waller, not Michael Mayer who heads to South Beach

The Miami Dolphins’ search for a tight end this week, indeed, revolved around one with Las Vegas Raiders ties. It just wasn’t the one the focus was on.

To continue the Dolphins’ wild start to Fourth of July 4 week, NFL Media reported Tuesday morning that they traded for the retired Darren Waller, whose right were still retained by the New York Giants. New York gets a sixth-round pick next year.

The #Giants get a 2026 sixth-round pick from Miami for Darren Waller and a conditinal 2027 seventh-rounder, per source.

Essentially a free pick for New York for a player who was retired, and a low-risk flier for Miami on a player who at his peak was one of the NFL’s best. https://t.co/Z68wAtKvMO

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 1, 2025​

Monday, the Dolphins made a huge trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending tight end Jonnu Smith to the Steelers as part of it. It was immediately reported that Miami was calling around for veteran tight ends and it was reported the Dolphins had their eye on Raiders’ third-year tight end Michael Mayer.

There were reports earlier this offseason that the Raiders were open to dealing Mayer, who has struggled to produce in the NFL so far. Yet, he had a strong offseason and new Las Vegas coach Pete Carroll has been complimentary of Mayer. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Monday afternoon the team wasn’t interested in dealing Mayer.

So, Mayer stays in Las Vegas to team with second-year star Brock Bowers.

And it’s Waller who will try to make a comeback after retiring in 2024 after one season with the Giants. Las Vegas traded the Pro Bowl tight end for a third-round pick (It became wide receiver Tre Tucker) in 2023.

Waller, who turns 33 in Miami, became a star for the Raiders in 2019 (he was signed off Baltimore’s practice squad in 2018). However, injuries started to affect Waller in 2021 and he hasn’t played in more than 11 games since the 2020 season.

NFL Media reported Tuesday that Waller recently informed he wanted to return, but only with the Dolphins. Miami’s offensive coordinator is Frank Smith, who was Waller’s position coach with the Raiders.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ws-dolphins-darren-waller-trade-michael-mayer