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[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders will visit with another top quarterback prospect

Jaxson Dart | Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Las Vegas will reportedly host Ole Miss quarterback

The Las Vegas Raiders are continuing to do their due diligence on top quarterback prospects leading up to the April 24-26 draft.

ESPN reported Tuesday afternoon that Las Vegas will soon host Mississippi quarterback Jaxson Dart on a pre-draft visit at their Henderson, Nevada headquarters.

Sources: Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart visited today with the Cleveland Browns, and will next fly to Las Vegas to visit the Raiders, sources tell me and @FieldYates.

Dart also has spent “considerable time” during this interview process with the Giants, Saints and Rams. pic.twitter.com/M6rY1SLGkl

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 8, 2025​

Dart is considered one of the top prospects at the quarterback position this year and he should go in the higher rounds. Perhaps the Raiders could target him in the second round, they have the No. 37 overall pick, or if they trade down from No. 6 or trade back into the first round.

While the Raiders are committed to new starter Geno Smith, who turns 35, for the time being, they are expected to draft a quarterback this month to groom behind Smith, who they traded a third-round pick (No. 92) to the Seattle Seahawks last month.

In addition to Dart, among the other quarterbacks the Raiders are visiting with are Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.

Dart should see a friendly face when he visits the Raiders. He went to Corner Canyon High School in Draper, Utah with Raiders’ second-year offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-news-jaxson-dart-visit-quarterback-prospect

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders Draft 2025: 5 wide receivers that can added much-needed speed

Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden’s speed was apparent a the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine as he clocked a 40-yard dash time of 4.29 seconds. | Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

Las Vegas has a need for explosivness and these prospects bring that and more

One look at the Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver room and one thing is abundantly clear: There’s a glaring absence of fear-instilling speed.

Of the nine receivers on the roster currently, only there bring lid-lifting speed that can scare the opposing defense. That trio is: Tre Tucker (4.39 40-yard dash time at Cincinnati’s Pro Day); Tyreik McAllister (4.39 at the University of Charleston Pro Day); and Shedrick Jackson (4.25 at Auburn’s Pro Day).

Of that three, Tucker is the only one to play substantial snaps in the NFL as McAllister is a hybrid wide receiver/running back that’s been more practice squad than roster regular. Jackson, an undrafted free agent, has bounced on the Cincinnati Bengals’ taxi squad and active roster before landing on the Las Vegas’ practice squad and netting a reserve/future contract heading into this offseason.

With the 2025 NFL Draft coming later this month, let’s take a look at some speedster options at the wide receiver position.

#Raiders known private visits:

QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama
QB Cam Miller, North Dakota State
QB Quinn Ewers, Texas
RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
RB Kaleb Johnson, Iowa
WR Jaylin Noel, Iowa State
WR Luther Burden, Missouri
T Will Campbell, LSU
T Charles Grant, William & Mary
OL…

— Tristen Kuhn (@KuhnTristen) April 5, 2025​

1. Matthew Golden, Texas:​

This 5-foot-11 and 191-pound Longhorn has a top gear that many don’t and can get to top speed very quickly. Running a 4.29 second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Golden is the type of wide receiver you either need to jam at the line of scrimmage or have the speed to mirror this flash.

The Houston native combines that speed with some sinister route running that leaves defenders look foolish and gasping for breath. Catching 58 passes for 987 yards and nine touchdowns for Texas in 2024, Golden is also a dangerous return man and he housed two kick returns in 2023 for Houston. Golden does rely on his speed too much and he’ll need to adjust in the pros where he’ll face defensive backs who are just as fast.

Projected to be a first-round pick, if Golden is somehow on the board when the Raiders are on the lock with pick No. 37, the wideout should be in discussion.

Remove two-way star Travis Hunter from the equation… here’s WR1 in the ‘25 draft class. Matthew Golden, Texas.

Golden is the only guy in the class that moves like this!! Plus, great adjust skills when ball is in air and not enough credit for route savvy. pic.twitter.com/BcxW6uqi6k

— Todd McShay (@McShay13) March 24, 2025​

2. Luther Burden III, Missouri​

Well-built at 6 feet and 206 pounds, this Tiger has an immediate explosiveness to his game that the Raiders can’t have enough of. Burden’s suddenness at the snap can leave defenders grasping at a dust cloud and sprinting to catch up.

With a timed speed of 4.41 at the combine, Burden plays faster than that and has the vision, balance, and agility to gain vital yards after the catch (YAC) for chunk gains. Combine all that with his speed and it’s easy to see why Missouri got the ball in this talented wideouts hands as much as possible (61 receptions for 676 yards, and six touchdowns in 2024). His explosiveness also translates very well as a return man, too.

Burden’s draft projections see him as a fringe first-round talent with Day 2 as the likelihood he’ll be taken. Las Vegas should consider this Tiger if he’s there in the second and/or third rounds.

Luther Burden “is a gadget player” yet he has a better success-rate vs Man Coverage (68th percentile) than Tet McMillan, Matthew Golden, Emeka Egbuka, Jayden Higgins…

Curious… pic.twitter.com/kDtFfsevK1

— David J. Gautieri (@GuruFantasyWrld) March 31, 2025​

3. Jaylin Noel, Iowa State​

A speed demon at slot receiver? That’s what Noel brings to the table with his blazing 4.39 40 time at the combine and 5-foot-10 and 194-pound frame.

This Cardinal displays consistent play speed and can accelerate and separate quickly leaving defenders in catch-up mode from the jump. Because of this, Noel can make a mockery of press coverage and he’s got the footwork and agility to plant and get open as a target. This skillset has potential to be true YAC master who can catch the ball early and get chunk plays.

Putting his most productive year at Iowa State in the books in 2024 (80 catches for 1,194 yard and eight touchdowns), Noel can be a dangerous burner inside with the speed to be an outside vertical threat, too. Projected to be a third-round prospect, Las Vegas does have a need for a slot receiver with jets.

Jaylin Noel is a pure deep threat from the slot position.

quick jab to freeze the corner just enough on the post then ends up with the explosive play pic.twitter.com/3NQeV0Ci6h

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) March 31, 2025​

4. Dont’e Thornton Jr., Tennessee​

The tallest prospect on this list at 6-foot-5 but an angular 205 pounds, this Volunteer gives team the size-speed ratio that’s all the rage as a vertical option.

Dashing to a 4.3-flat 40 at the combine, Thornton displays electrifying acceleration that puts defensive backs on their heels from the get. As a deep threat, Thornton shows good deep ball tracking skills and has the size and catch radius to be a contest-catch specialist who can body smaller defenders.

Thornton requires refinement in his route tree and will need to build upon more than relying on his speed, but for a team that needs a big vertical threat, the Raiders should be eying this Tennessee product. Hauling in 26 passes for 661 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, Thornton is projected to be a fifth-round pick.

Dont’e Thornton has speed you just can’t teach.

He makes fast guys look… not fast. pic.twitter.com/eVZ6CxIP1Y

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) April 3, 2025​

5. Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech​

Another human torch at slot receiver, this Hokies wideout wastes no time in accelerating and getting vertical. Compactly built at 5-foot-10 and 191 pounds, Lane blazed a 4.34 40 time at the combine, highlighting his ability to hit top-end speed quickly.

Displaying the spatial awareness to find the soft spots in the defense and hauling in the pass for YAC, Lane will be a pain to both nickel cornerbacks and safeties as he’s got the vertical juice to split even the best defensive backs. Lane had a down 2024 season with only 38 catches for 466 yards and two touchdowns, but his speed and elusiveness merit attention.

Showcasing toughness over the middle and tenacity as a return man, Lane is projected to be a sixth-round prospect with the Raiders owning three selections in that stanza: No. 180, 213, and 215.

Virginia Tech WR Jaylin Lane's athleticism showed up at the combine, and that's a good thing. Because it was a bit hidden in that passing game. I'd expect him to catch on in the NFL as a speed slot guy with gadget potential. Some real upside here. pic.twitter.com/4i2YZmShVC

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) March 18, 2025​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...iders-draft-2025-matthew-golden-wide-receiver

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Thursday open thread

Kolton Miller | Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Head to the comments section to share your thoughts and join the conversation. You can sign up for a commenting account below and we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/10/24324212/thursday-open-thread

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Film room: Will Johnson the interception machine

Will Johnson | Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

Breaking down what the Michigan cornerback could bring to Las Vegas

While adding a cornerback with the sixth overall pick of the 2025 NFL Draft was already on the table for the Las Vegas Raiders, the defense’s need for a corner heightened with the decision to move on from Jack Jones.

As a result, the Raiders taking Michigan’s Will Johnson in the first round later this month has gained some steam recently and, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, he’ll be in Las Vegas for a visit next week.

A big part of what makes Johnson a coveted draft prospect is he was a ballhawk in Ann Arbor, racking up nine interceptions (including three pick-sixes) in 32 games or two and half seasons. On top of that, he’s come up big in big moments by intercepting passes against Ohio State and in the National Championship during the 2023 campaign and sealing victories this past season with a couple of pick-sixes late in the second half of games.

While the former Wolverine missed seven contests last fall, he was stingy in coverage the year before by surrendering just a 45.9 completion percentage (17/37) and 267 yards when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus. That combined with four interceptions resulted in a 30.9 passer rating which led all Big 10 cornerbacks and ranked seventh in the FBS (minimum 119 coverage snaps).

So, let’s dive into the tape and see what Johnson could bring to Las Vegas.

Will Johnson is all over the China route from Marvin Harrison Jr. and takes advantage of the forced throw with INT #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/bjVSwVkMy9

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

Of course, we have to start with the interceptions and the clip above comes from the 2023 season.

Lined up across from Marvin Harrison Jr., Johnson is in man coverage while Michigan is bracketing Harrison with the safety. That means Johnson has help over the top against a vertical route, so he can park himself about five yards off the line of scrimmage.

He jumps all over the China route/short in, cutting the receiver off and getting inside leverage. That puts the corner in a great spot to capitalize when the quarterback decides to force the throw, resulting in a turnover and a great scoring opportunity for the Wolverines.

Will Johnson knows the screen is coming, steps in front of it and gets the house call for a pick 6#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/urNzuHDSVq

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

Fast forward to this past fall, a big reason why Johnson has racked up so many interceptions is he has impressive instincts and route recognition. He had some help with the bracket coverage in the previous clip but this time, he’s one-on-one with the outside receiver against the bunch set from Fresno State.

Notice how Johnson starts creeping toward the line of scrimmage right before the snap. Something tipped him off that the screen was coming, and he was right as he crashed downhill and intercepted the pass like it was intended for him for the pick-six.

To add some context, this helped seal the win for Michigan as they were only up by 13 points late in the fourth quarter with Fresno State threatening to make it a one-possession game. Instead, the defense’s playmaker comes up clutch to put the game on ice.

Will Johnson with another great read to step in front of the curl route and get another pick 6 #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/rRBZyZ6hVy

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

This time, Michigan is running a fire zone where Johnson has to read the releases of the two receivers on his side of the formation to determine who he’s responsible for covering. With the linebacker (No. 28) taking care of any short routes or routes breaking toward the middle of the field, the cornerback is technically responsible for the vertical route.

However, Johnson also has his eyes on the quarterback, who wants to throw to the short curl route for the conversion on third and short. Once the quarterback starts his throwing motion, Johnson breaks on the curl route, steps in front of the receiver and has reservations for six once again.

Also, this was another big situation where Michigan was only up by four points about halfway through the third quarter in what ended up being just a three-point victory for the Wolverines.

Will Johnson with a great close and plays thru the TE's back to get a PBU #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/vPv0cyv70b

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

We’re moving away from the interceptions but the rep above is another strong example of the Michigan product’s ball skills and instincts.

He’s sitting in Cover 3 and gets a short curl route from the tight end with no vertical threats on his side of the field. So, he immediately drives on the route when the tight end starts to turn to the quarterback and shows off some impressive acceleration to make contact right as the ball arrives.

On top of that, Johnson does a great job of playing through the tight end’s back and ripping hands at the catch point to come away with a PBU. Considering the size disadvantage, that’s an excellent rep from the corner.

Will Johnson in off-coverage vs Marvin Harrison Jr., maintains his leverage and speed turns to cut off the go route #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/bPX3IpjZuD

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

Bear with me here as we’re hoping in the time machine and going back to the 2023 campaign.

First, it’s clear Michigan’s coaching staff had a lot of confidence in Johnson’s coverage skills. He’s lined up across from Harrison again and is on an island with the fire zone call and the safety working toward the other side of the field, putting last year’s No. 4 overall pick one-on-one with one of this year’s top cornerback prospects.

Johnson is playing off coverage and has inside leverage pre-snap. Post-snap, Harrison attacks Johnson’s leverage to try to create some space near the sideline on the go route. However, the corner does a good job of maintaining his positioning while staying on top of the route before speed-turning and cutting the receiver off to help force the incompletion.

While a play like this doesn’t stand out on the box score or stat sheet, this is a great rep against elite competition.

Great run support from Will Johnson here. Blitzes off the edge, makes the OL miss and gets the tackle right at the line of scrimmage #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/HYzgIlCNQa

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 8, 2025​

Finally, Johnson is also a solid run defender, earning PFF run defense grades in the 70s during each of his three college seasons. The clip above is a good example of what he can bring in that phase of the game and highlights how he can contribute as a nickelback at the next level.

While Johnson is still lined up as an outside corner, Fresno State is in a reduced formation where the receiver at the bottom of the screen is essentially lined up with the same width as if he were in the slot. So, Michigan blitzes the corner off the edge like he was playing nickel.

Post-snap, he has the athleticism to not only make the pulling guard miss but also sink his hips to redirect, come flat down the line and avoid overrunning the running back. That allows him to make the tackle right at the line of scrimmage.

---

Given the Raiders’ need at the position and the former Wolverine’s talent, there’s a strong chance he ends up becoming the sixth overall selection in a couple of weeks. Johnson’s game is pretty similar to Devon Witherspoon’s, who Pete Carroll selected fifth overall two years ago with the Seattle Seahawks.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Michigan product be used in a similar role to Witherspoon’s in Seattle, as a hybrid inside-outside cornerback.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...fl-draft-will-johnson-michigan-film-breakdown

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

NFL Draft: Barron or Johnson?

Jahdae Barron | Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images

You’re on the clock and making the pick for the Raiders, who are you taking?

Especially after waiving Jack Jones, the Las Vegas Raiders are expected to add a cornerback during the 2025 NFL Draft. The Raiders have recently been exploring and shown interest in a couple of projected first-round picks at the position; Texas’ Jahdae Barron and Michigan’s Will Johnson.

Johnson was in Las Vegas for a Top 30 visit, and ESPN’s Jordan Reid reported that Barron is on the club’s radar. “Cornerback could be another position the Raiders target early, especially if they decide to trade down from No. 6,” Reid wrote on April 10. “Multiple league sources have mentioned Jahdae Barron as an option if the Raiders trade back.”

While Reid’s report is specific to the Silver and Black trading back to take the Texas product, that scenario could apply to either player. NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board has Johnson as the second-best corner and 12th overall player in the draft class while Barron is third and 14th, respectively. Also, sticking at six and drafting either player is an option.

So, which prospect should the Raiders prioritize?

Will Johnson’s Case​

Had it not been for an injury that limited him to just six games last season, Johnson would have a strong case to be the top cornerback in this year’s draft class. He can play either man or zone coverages and is a playmaker on the perimeter, hauling in nine career interceptions with three pick-sixes. Also, he has the skill set to contribute as a nickelback at the next level, one of Las Vegas’ biggest needs in the secondary.

In comparing Johnson to Barron, the Michigan product is younger, having just turned 22 years old at the end of March while Barron will be 24 in December. The Wolverine also has the size advantage as he’s three inches taller and has slightly longer arms — 30⅛” to 29⅝”. While some have called Johnson’s tackling into question, his career missed tackle rate is nearly identical to Barron’s — 15.7 percent to 14.0 percent (via Pro Football Focus).

Barron’s Case​

No college cornerback had a better season in 2024 than the Jim Thorpe Award winner. Barron had plenty of ball production last year with five interceptions, which led the SEC, and 11 passes defended in total. Additionally, he showed plenty of versatility throughout his time in Austin, both schematically and positionally.

Unlike Johnson who is a projection at nickel, the former Longhorn was primarily a slot corner in 2022 and 2023 and often slid inside in passing situations last fall, recording 900 career snaps at that spot. Also, he put together a quality performance at the NFL Combine, earning an 8.64 RAS that was highlighted by a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, while an additional injury kept Johnson from testing.

---

My pick is for Johnson as I think he has a brighter future on the outside while Barron could be a “slot-only” type of corner in the NFL with his lack of length. I’m also not as concerned about the former Wolverine’s tackling as others seem to be and think he could fill a similar role as Devon Witherspoon did with Pete Carroll in Seattle.

But what say you? Who would you prioritize in the draft at the end of the month?

Vote in the poll below and sound off in the comments section with your rationale. 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...aft-jahdae-barron-texas-will-johnson-michigan

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Could injury to former quarterback affect Raiders’ draft

Derek Carr | Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Saints may have urgent need for quarterback

Well, this is quite the development.

And, yes, somehow Derek Carr could have an affect on the Las Vegas Raiders’ approach to the first round of the NFL draft that starts in 13 days.

In a bombshell news story that came out of nowhere Friday afternoon, NFL Media reported Carr is in danger of missing the 2025 season for the New Orleans Saints because of a shoulder injury.

The #Saints suddenly have a major QB question: Starter Derek Carr is now dealing with a shoulder injury that threatens his availability for this season, sources say.

Carr is weighing options, including the possibility of surgery. pic.twitter.com/QNdc9ipE8P

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 11, 2025​

Carr, of course, spent his first nine season as the starting quarterback of the Raiders. They released Carr, who turned 34 last month, in 2023 and he’s been New Orleans’ starter since.

The Saints may have been in the market for a quarterback in the first round, anyway. This news kicks that possibility into the next year.

That’s where the Carr-Raiders connection circles back.

The Raiders own the No. 6 overall pick and could be candidates to trade down. The Saints have the No. 9 overall pick. These two teams had already made sense as trade partners if there was mutual interest. The Raiders have have nine picks and many needs could likely get an extra third-round pick, or more, in a deal and a potential target like Ashton Jeanty of Boise State could still be available.

So, this Carr news probably has the Raiders’ attention.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...news-derek-carr-shoulder-injury-raiders-draft

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders Draft 2025: William & Mary offensive tackle Charles Grant an option on blindside

With his background as a wrestler and lateral quickness, William & Mary’s Charles Grant is an intriguing left tackle prospect that would fit with the Las Vegas Raiders. | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Small-school product can make big impact in pros, especially at left tackle in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek is no stranger to small school prospects who can make a big impact at the next level.

After all, the Silver & Black’s chief personnel man brought in Alex Cappa, who is a product of Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt) in Arcata, Calif. That’s about as small school as you can get as Cappa went from Lumberjack to Tampa Bay Buccaneers starter after Spytek was part of the player personnel group that helped bring Cappa into the organization.

The Raiders GM can continue his interest in less heralded prospects later this month in the 2025 NFL Draft. And he’ll be the chief decision maker alongside head coach Pete Carroll.

Las Vegas can use help up front on its offensive line and there’s prospect from the College of William & Mary that can not only provide valuable depth at left tackle. But also has the potential to be a long-term starter on the blindside, too.

Enter: Charles Grant.

By The Numbers
Charles Grant, Left Tackle, William & Mary

• 2024: 12 games, 767 snaps, 2 sacks allowed, 1 quarterback hit allowed, 6 pressures allowed
• Career: 36 games, 2,292 snaps, 3 sacks allowed, 3 quarterback hits allowed, 22 pressured allowed

Charles Grant is an absolute dawg with some NASTY tape.

Raw technique and new to the game, but his William & Mary film displays the athletic tools, size, and 7-foot wingspan to develop and stick at tackle for a long time. pic.twitter.com/g2dEdpBUVN

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) April 4, 2025​

How He Fits​

The Tribe’s stalwart of a left tackle, Grant anchored William & Mary’s offensive line that paved the way for a very productive run game (nearly 233 yards per game; fourth highest in the nation).

Grant’s length, technique, and quickness make him a headache for pass rushers to contend with. Measuring in at 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds at the NFL Combine, Grant’s 34 3⁄4 inch arms and his wingspan of 84 inches is seven feet, which allows him to engulf defenders looking to get to the quarterback.

Las Vegas’ depth at offensive tackle is far from ideal. Those on the roster as of now: Kolton Miller and DJ Glaze as the starters on the left and right sides, then Thayer Munford Jr., Dalton Wagner, and Gottlieb Ayedze.

A prospect of Grant’s caliber can come in, compete for snaps but eventually be developed into a long-term solution on the blindside. Grant is 23 while Miller, the Raiders stalwart left tackle, is 29 years old.

Strengths​

With his massive wingspan and his background as a wrestler, Grant has a bag of tricks waiting for pass rushers. A solid technician, this left tackle looks to truly confuse incoming rushers to truly disrupt rhythm with feints that would make even the best boxers blush.

His footwork is in-line with his arms and Grant’s ability to quickly move laterally affords him the ability to mirror defenders.

William & Mary OL Charles Grant is a player that I think will go much sooner than expected. He's 6' 4" and 311 lbs with 34 3/4" arms and is an experienced tackle with 41 career starts.

+ Quick mover with a big frame
+ Plays with violent & active hands
+ Moves laterally with… pic.twitter.com/RXkqwisWHQ

— Russell Brown (@RussNFLDraft) April 6, 2025​

He knows how to use his length and his long arms allows Grant to keep defenders at bay and his hand strength and background as a grappler allow him to latch, maintain anchor, and drive defenders in the direction he wants.

A fit for the zone blocking scheme, Grant plays with urgency and high football IQ to redirect, drive, and finish incoming rushers. Being fundamentally sound and quick gives Grant the violence required for a mean streak.

Weaknesses​

The one that looms largest is frame. The 311 pounds he tipped the scales at the combine is the heaviest Grant has been. He normally hovers at 300 pounds which means he’ll need to hit a pro team’s weight program and pack on some muscle.

This harkens on a main critique for one of the current Raiders offensive linemen: Guard Dylan Parham. Very light in the britches at 285 pounds, Parham too weighted in at 311 pounds at the combine back in 2022, but has been one of the lighter linemen in Silver & Black.

Fortunately for Grant, he has the functional strength advantage and longer arms.

But it’s that lack of mass that’ll be a main concern for Grant as NFL bull rushers are likely to knock him off anchor.

Another area of opportunity for Grant is the jump in competition. He did well to dominate FCS defenders during his collegiate days, but how he handles superior NFL talent remains to be seen.

Finally, Grant’s collegiate career has solely been on the blindside. He didn’t take any snaps anywhere else along the offensive line but left tackle. This may create versatility limitations until he’s accustomed to NFL coaching.

William & Mary OT Charles Grant: Strong enough to cross a defender's face and give him the old cockroach, or block him right off the screen. Agile enough to hit his targets at the second level, and own the zone slide. Some technique fixes needed, but you see the NFL potential. pic.twitter.com/YyAYuXHE67

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) March 30, 2025​

Projection​

Grant is projected to be a third-round pick in the draft and the predictions on where the tackle lands ranges from Day 2 to Day 3. Seen as a prospect that can go as high as the third and as low as the sixth round, a savvy football team that’ll have patience and opportunity to for him to develop into a starter is likely getting a solid prospect.

The Raiders own the 68th overall pick in the the third round. They also have the 108th selection in the fourth and 143rd pick in the fifth stanzas.

Considering Grant plays a position where Las Vegas depth is dubious, and the fact the William & Mary product will likely need time to acclimate to the NFL game, learning behind Miller isn’t a bad proposition for a mid-round talent.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/12/24404080/raiders-draft-charles-grant-left-tackle

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Mailbag: Draft Jeanty and Skattebo?

Ashton Jeanty | Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Returning Raider Nation’s questions for the week

We’re less than two weeks away from the 2025 NFL Draft as the Las Vegas Raiders are busy bringing in prospects on Top 30 visits and fine-tuning their draft strategy. The draft is once again the focus of this week’s mailbag, so let’s get to it!

Q: What are your thoughts on drafting Ashton Jeanty and Cam Skattebo in the draft?

A: I’m on the record of not being a fan of the Raiders taking Jeanty in the top 10, which kind of derails this scenario. But if the Raiders do take him at No. 6, I’d like to see them prioritize other spots on the roster throughout the rest of the draft rather than taking another running back.

If I’m spending a premium pick on a running back, I’d want that guy to be my bell-cow rather than having him split carries. Also, Jeanty and Skattebo don’t complement each other that well since neither is known for their skills as a receiver out of the backfield. Getting a dynamic scatback to pair with either of those two would be a better fit, in my opinion.

To be clear, I don’t think it’s out of the question for Las Vegas to draft two running backs later this month, but I think that’s a lot less likely if they use a Top 10 pick on one.

Q: Rhett Lewis mocked Travis Hunter to the Raiders at number 2. Any chance this could actually happen? Because if the Raiders trade from 6, I think it would be more likely they trade down to accumulate picks. What is your sense?

A: I touched on this scenario last week too. I have a hard time seeing the Raiders trading up in this year’s draft unless it’s for a quarterback and even that feels unlikely. They have a lot of holes to fill on defense and while Hunter could solve the cornerback problem, moving up to get him would cost at least one more pick/player who could fill another hole.

I agree with you, trading back and acquiring more capital seems much more probable from John Spytek and Co.

Q: Removing Cam Ward, rank the next five quarterbacks you think the Raiders should take.

Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images
Shedeur Sanders

A: Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough, Will Howard and Jalen Milroe.

I’m not Sanders’ biggest fan, but he’s still the unquestioned QB2 for me in this class. I’ve come around a bit on Dart to put him in the third spot and think a situation where he sits behind Geno Smith for a couple of years would be great for Dart, though I still wouldn’t take him earlier than round two. The decision between Shough and Howard is a tough one, I just think Shough has a better arm to work with. Milroe’s traits are intriguing, but his performances at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine are why he’s at the bottom of the list.

Q: The timing of the Jack Jones release is interesting. It would seem to make more sense to wait until after his replacement is secured in the draft. Do you think he may have requested a trade or release due to this?

A: The timing was definitely interesting and I could see Jones asking to be let go if he wasn’t seeing eye-to-eye with the new coaching staff and front office. His connection with Antonio Pierce was the primary reason the Raiders picked him up in the first place.

I also think what happened here was the organization wanted to get a better gauge of the cornerback class before moving on from Jones. Now that they’ve had the combine, pro days and a few visits, Spytek and Co. felt comfortable making the decision now. So, I’d expect Las Vegas to add at least one corner early in the draft.

DaysofOld
I’ve heard some good stuff (compares to Carter out of UGA who went to the Eagles) about Walter Nolen, DT out of Ole Miss…do you see a draft scenario where he’d come into play? Thanks!​

A: I’m a big fan of Walter Nolen’s game, but I still have him comfortably behind Mason Graham as DT2 and think he’d be a reach at No. 6. Trading back is certainly an option and that could put the Raiders in Nolen’s range/value. However, I get the feeling if they trade back it would be to target a need like safety or corner rather than making a move to add someone who would be more of a luxury pick.

In my opinion, the most realistic way Nolen lands in Las Vegas is if he falls out of the first round. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that there are “maturity concerns” surrounding the Ole Miss product, so he could end up being one of those players who we see slide on night one. Then the question would be if Pete Carroll and Syptek would be willing to work with a guy who might have off-the-field or character issues.

AAAA54
What are you hearing about thr Raiders plan for Mayer in Chip's offense?
How big is the gap between Bowers and Tyler Warren as prospects?
Top tier TEs are paid about half as much as top tier WRs on their second contracts. So 2 elite TEs would be the same cap hit as 1 elite WR.
So you see where I'm going with this...does it make any sense to draft Tyler Warren?​

A: Brock Bowers is the superior player/prospect but has a similar skill set as Tyler Warren. Warren is a unique athlete for the position and can be dangerous with the ball in his hands to fit the move tight end role. However, the Penn State product’s in-line blocking needs some work.

So, having him and Bowers together without Michael Mayer would give you two tight ends who fill the same role. I think it makes more sense to keep Mayer as the blocking tight end and red zone threat than trade him and get another tight end who is similar to Bowers.

R8iderEddie
Matt,
Can you touch on the status of the o-line. I wouldn't mind the raiders drafting Membou at 6, What's the health status of Kolton Miller? He had a very down year last year due to injuries, does the front office see him as a long term LT after this year? We could still take TreVeyon Henderson in R2 to solidify the ground game, and draft Tate Ratledge in R3. Build a young strong line LT and RT with Glaze.​

A: Kolton Miller had a tough start to the season but settled in after about the first month. Per Pro Football Focus, he gave up one sack after Week 4 and a few of the sacks he allowed early on were more the quarterback’s fault than his. As far as I know, Miller is healthy going into this season. That said, I have mentioned that he’s entering a contract year and approaching 30, so drafting a future left tackle is on the table.

I think the offensive line could use some help at guard. I like how Jordan Meredith played in the second half of last season, but I wouldn’t put all my eggs in that basket if there’s a quality guard available in the middle rounds. Also, Parham is entering a contract year and Alex Cappa isn’t the long-term answer (Cappa might not even be the short term answer). In other words, addressing the interior of the line should at least be on the table.

AAAA54
The more I read, and the more mocks I do, I just can't get excited about picking at #6 because a lack of high end talent atop the draft.
How would you rank this draft class against past drafts. Lets say the last 7 years? Thanks!​

A: If we’re just looking at top-end talent and how I viewed them as prospects (not factoring in NFL performance): ‘24, ‘21, ‘20, ‘19, ‘23, ‘25 and ‘22.

The quarterbacks helped give last year’s class a big boost but there were also several really good wide receivers and offensive tackles. I also thought last year’s edge rushers were underrated and Laiatu Latu falling to the 15th overall pick as the first edge and defensive player taken speaks to the talent in the class. While most of them flamed out, the 2021 class also had a bunch of good quarterbacks and guys like Ja’Marr Chase, Penei Sewell and Patrick Surtain II gave that group plenty of talent.

It’s no secret that the upcoming class doesn’t have the premium talent we’ve seen in the past, and there’s a significant gap between this year’s crew and 2023 which included C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson Jr. and Devon Witherspoon. But I’ll still take 2025 over 2022 where Travon Walker, Ikem Ekwonu and Evan Neal were Top 10 picks.

---

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.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-nfl-draft-mailbag-ashton-jeanty-cam-skattebo

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Longshot Look: Justin Shorter a young athlete in crowded tight end room

Justin Shorter is a former wide receiver who converted to tight end. He’s only 24 and brings a ton of athleticism but the Las Vegas Raiders tight end room is crowded. | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Converted wide receiver needs to establish himself as a special teamer to make 53-man roster

On a team where there’s an unquestioned young starter and another young and promising all-around backup, Justin Shorter can be seen as a luxury item. If not, superfluous.

The converted wide receiver-turned tight end brings athleticism and youth to the Las Vegas Raiders tight end room. But it’s a position group that’s the last of the Silver & Black’s worry spots.

The tight ends on the roster include: Sensational youngster in Brock Bowers who had a record-setting rookie season in 2024; a promising all-around-type in Michael Mayer, and a recently added veteran Ian Thomas. Bowers is the youngest of the group at 22, Mayer is still only 23 after being drafted in the second round in the 2023 NFL Draft, Shorter is 24 (25 on April 17), and Thomas is the oldest at 28.

How things stand now, Bowers is the clear-cut starter, Mayer has the inside track to be the No. 2, while Shorter, Thomas, and potentially another rookie or free agent signing down the road, duke it out in camp for reserve roles.

Shorter, who played his college ball at Penn State and then Florida, was a big wide receiver prospect heading into the 2023 draft standing 6-foot-5 and 228 pounds. The Buffalo Bills picked the former Gator in the fifth round (150th overall) but he landed on injured reserve (hamstring injury) in August of that year.

One year later, the Bills released Shorter and the wideout landed on the Raiders practice squad on Aug. 29, 2024, but as a tight end.

First touchdown for Justin Shorter!

: WIVB | @paramountplus pic.twitter.com/yMNzcH00pk

— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) August 20, 2023​

In Las Vegas this past season, Shorter was activated for 10 games in a reserve role and was primarily a special teamer earning 126 snaps for Tom McMahon’s unit. His participate rate on offense was light at just 25 total snaps.

While it’s certainly not impossible for Shorter to make an impression and move up the depth chart at tight end, the converted wide receiver supplanting Mayer in the pecking order is quite the tall order. Yes, the third-year pro was brought up as a potential trade candidate this offseason, but his experience and production at the tight end spot surpasses Shorter. Not only is Mayer bigger at 6-foot-4 and 265 pounds, but he’s more developed as a blocker in the pros.

Unless Mayer is shipped off to another team or misses substantial time this coming season (he played in only 11 games (eight starts) in 2024 hauling in 21 passes for 156 yards and zero end zone visits), Shorter’s path to a 53-man roster spot is showcasing the athleticism and drive on special teams.

Shorter did post a 4.55-second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine heading into the 2023 draft. He’s got long arms (33 3⁄4 inches) and wingspan to be be a mainstay on special teams coverage units.

Raiders QB Gardner Minshew connects with TEs Justin Shorter, John Shekner, and Michael Mayer at practice, while Brock Bowers continues to nurse his foot injury.

: @MikeDixon_VST | #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/fHHcTziQuO

— Vegas Sports Today (@VegasSportsTD) August 29, 2024​

Thomas is likely to put up a good fight for a roster consideration, though. At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, the veteran is more of an in-line blocker than receiving option. Taken in the fourth round (101st overall) of the 2018 draft by the Carolina Panthers, Thomas’ production as a pass catcher decreased from his rookie season on. Catching 36 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns in 2018, Thomas’ highest production after that was a 2022 season where he hauled in 21 passes for 197 yards (zero touchdowns).

The past two seasons, Thomas’ participated on offense waned and to the point in 2024 he played only 94 snaps on offense and nine on special teams.

The Raiders, under head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, are slated to run the ball (a lot) and having tight ends who can not only run routes and catch passes but can also block in the ground game and aerial attack is going to be vital.

That’s the developing area of Shorter. While he does offer plus athleticism and youth to be a valued special teamer, if he has aspirations of being a contributor on offense, he’ll need to prove he can be a reliable blocker along with refining his route running and tree.

If not, another go-around on the Raiders practice squad or the free agent market it is.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/13/24404086/raiders-roster-2025-justin-shorter-tight-end

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders offseason: Trade for Tyreek Hill?

Tyreek Hill | Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images

Dolphins could trade star wide receiver

There’s some smoke about the Miami Dolphins considering trading star wide receiver Tyreek Hill for some time and the rumors continue to persist.

The fact that Hill periodically seems to fan the fire of the potential trade talk doesn’t stop the chatter, either.

So, perhaps before the draft, the Raiders could end up trading the play-making receiver before the draft.

If the Dolphins do truly decide to swap Hill, should the Las Vegas Raiders consider making an offer?

Las Vegas has a major need at the top-of-the-rotation receiver and it was reportedly before free agency started that the Raiders wanted to add a No. 1 receiver.

Hill, a noted Raider killer, would qualify. He is still very explosive and he would be a nice fit with new Raiders’ quarterback Geno Smith.

But Hill is already 31, he has been dealing with some injuries, he’d probably cost a premium draft pick, he’d want a new deal and he has been known to be an off-field distraction at times.

All in all, do you think the Raiders should make a move for him?

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ers-offseason-trade-tyreek-hill-wide-receiver

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders Mock Draft 2025: A new No. 1 wide receiver in Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan

Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan has the skillset and production to be the Las Vegas Raiders No. 1 wide receiver. | Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images

Building Las Vegas’ roster outside and inside in this 7-round excursion

We’re one week away from the 2025 NFL Draft. Raider Nation is going to get a lot of solid insight on how Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll intend to build their football team.

Heading into next weekend’s event, the Silver & Black have nine draft picks — including the No. 6 overall selection — as the team pivots to an integral initial draft class from the new regime.

9 picks. 7 rounds. The future of Raiders Football is taking shape.#RaiderNation https://t.co/Wm8b57cGes

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) March 14, 2025​

Version 4.0 of this mock draft is once again a seven-round affair.

The Top 5 picks went: Cameron Ward (quarterback Miami) to the Tennessee Titans; Abdul Carter (edge, Penn State) to the Cleveland Browns, Shedur Sanders (quarterback Colorado) to the New York Giants; Travis Hunter (cornerback , Colorado) to the New England Patriots and Mason Graham (defensive tackle, Michigan) to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Which left me with intriguing options at sixth overall for the Raiders.

Round 1​

No. 6 overall: Tetairoa McMillan, Wide Receiver, Arizona​

While it was tempting to take Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, meet Las Vegas’ new No. 1 wideout.

At 6-foot-4 and 219 pounds, McMillan gives new Raiders quarterback Geno Smith a big and smooth target with a large catch radius. The skillset this Wildcat wide receiving brings to the table allows Las Vegas offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to get creative and for Smith to showcase his excellent accuracy and ball placement.

With the height, vertical leap, and elite ball skills, McMillan is a ready-made mismatch from the get who can line up on the outside and be a nightmare in the slot.

Tetairoa McMillan's #ReceptionPerception prospect profile is a fun one.

- 70.4% success rate vs. man coverage
- 81% success rate vs. zone
- 73.1% success rate vs. press (80th percentile)

I thought McMillan did his best work in the intermediate area of the field when he built… pic.twitter.com/D1VhMKC5xq

— Matt Harmon (@MattHarmon_BYB) March 25, 2025​

Round 2​

No. 37 overall: Shavon Revel, Cornerback, East Carolina​

A prototypical Carroll cornerback at 6-foot-2, 194 pounds, and 32 5/8 inch arms, there’s a high likelihood this prospect may be long gone by this selection, if Revel is here, the Raiders shouldn’t hesitate to make the pick.

This collegiate Pirate goes from one set of marauders to the Silver & Black variant giving them a disruptive, opportunistic, and supremely motivated cornerback. With the size, speed, and length to be a physical press corner and the vision to be a zone thief, Revel can shadow receivers and is always looking for the football.

Injury concerns are legit — he suffered a torn ACL in September, which limited him to three games in 2024 (but he still had two interceptions, including a pick six) — which may result in him falling into the second round.

Round 3​

No. 68 overall: Alfred Collins, Defensive Tackle, Texas​

A space-eating prospect who can fill the need for a true nose tackle, Collins brings with him a massive 6-foot-6 and 332-pound frame that can plop right on the Raiders defensive line from the get.

This Longhorns defensive tackle isn’t type-cast for just nose as he’s alignment versatile, which means defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and defensive line boss Rob Leonard can get creative on how to deploy Collins. He moves quickly laterally and has the natural power to wreck the run game.

Collins’ pass rush is still developing but he arrives as a disruptive big man who is hard to move or redirect.

Round 4​

No. 108 overall: Dylan Sampson, Running Back, Tennessee​

In a very deep tailback class, Sampson gives Las Vegas a fleet-footed and patient running back who brings a similar skillset of veteran Raheem Mostert, albeit as a 20-year-old rookie (doesn’t turn 21 until September 14).

Able to allow blocks to develop in front of him before planting his foot and exploding to the open, Sampson has the immediate and long speed to be a threat to house a carry anywhere on the field.

Compactly built at 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds, it’s Sampson’s size that allows him to disappear in traffic before sprinting through a gap.

Dylan Sampson is one of my favorite RB prospects in this years class. Wasn’t asked to catch the ball a lot at Tennessee but gives me shades of Austin Ekeler as a runner. pic.twitter.com/0udreHhMN4

— Tanner Weber (@Purple_Post) April 6, 2025​

Round 5​

No. 143 overall: Zah Frazier, Cornerback, USTA​

Carroll is no stranger to Roadrunner cornerbacks as Frazier reminds him of Riq Woolen, a fifth-round UTSA cornerback the Seattle Seahawks took in 2022.

At 6-foot-3, 186 pounds, and with 4.36 speed, Frazier is the bank-on selection as he not only fits the Carroll mold (32 7/8 inch arms) but he helps supplement the cornerback room considering Revel’s injury history.

A long-limbed corner that can run with anyone, Frazier can smother and bully receiving options and being disruptive to timing with his long arms. Older prospect who will turn 25 in October, he did intercept six passes with the Roadrunners in 2024.

Round 6​

No. 180 overall: Hollin Pierce, Offensive Tackle, Rutgers​

At a gargantuan 6-foot-8 and 341 pounds, Pierce brings equally large power to the left tackle position and gives Las Vegas another tall option on the blindside.

With that brute strength, however, comes a heavy-legged prospect who relies heavily on his power and length to engulf defenders. Pierce is similar to current Raider Dalton Wagner (right tackle) who is tall and a brute. And this is where stalwart left tackle Kolton Miller comes in as he can show Pierce how to play at that height and improve lateral quickness.

Steeped in Rutgers zone blocking scheme, Pierce can be a cross-trained swing tackle.

No. 213 overall: Jackson Woodard, Linebacker, UNLV​

A well-built 6-foot-2 and 234-pound prospect that was a productive Mike linebacker in the Running Rebels 4-2-5 scheme, Woodard is equal parts run stopper and coverage option on the back end.

Woodard had a stellar 2024 campaign where he racked up 135 total tackles, four interceptions, and a staggering 17 passes defensed.

Woodard’s lack of NFL athleticism is what will result in him being a likely Day 3 selection, but he has the talent to be a late-round gem for Carroll and linebacker’s coach John Glenn.

Watching some under-the-radar off-ball linebackers, and man, UNLV's Jackson Woodard stands out. Dude is a pure bomber from the second level with TFL and pressure, and he can cover all over the place. Needs a bit more awareness as a run defender, but the tape is impressive. pic.twitter.com/ddSRWbfeO0

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) March 26, 2025​

No. 215 overall: Tyler Batty, Defensive End, BYU​

A yoked up 6-foot-6 and 271-pound prospect, Batty has the aggression, size, and strength to be a disciplined run-stuffing defensive end — something that’ll help the Raiders defensive overall.

A high-motor defender who has a consistent mean streak, Batty showcases the hands and length to set the edge, shed blocks, and work for tackles for loss (seven in 2024, 34 total over his five-year stint at BYU (2020-24).

An older prospect who’ll be 25 on May 2, Las Vegas would do well to add another high-energy defensive end to the roster this late in the draft.

Round 7​

No. 222 overall: Rayuan Lane III, Safety, Navy​

As a ready-made special teams ace as a gunner, this Midshipmen safety bolsters Tom McMahon’s special teams group in Las Vegas while offering the high football IQ to develop into a contributor in the secondary.

While not the biggest at 5-foot-11 and 201 pounds, Lane’s instincts, ability to read and react, combined with his athleticism, allows him to read the quarterbacks and get a jump on throws.

Lane has the ideal mindset as a run defender but he’ll need to refine his technique as an open-field tackler. But he brings uncanny mentality as a gunner on return coverage units and the Raiders can’t have enough of that.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/14/24404096/raiders-2025-mock-draft-seven-rounds

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Film room: How Alfred Collins can boost Raiders’ run defense

Alfred Collins | Photo by David Buono/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Diving into what the Texas defensive tackle could bring to Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Raiders could use some help at nose tackle heading into the 2025 NFL Draft as the club didn't re-sign John Jenkins, the Raiders’ starter over the last two seasons, during free agency. That should put Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins on Las Vegas’ radar.

While Collins doesn’t have a ton of experience lining up at nose — recording 146 snaps in the A-gap versus 299 in the B-gap in Austin last season, according to Pro Football Focus — he has the size and skill set to make the subtle position switch in the NFL.

The nearly 6-foot-6 and 332-pound former Longhorn is a boulder as a run defender. He’s hard to move out of his gap, is stout against double teams and easily defeats one-on-one blocks. That helped him earn the third-best run defense grade (85.0) and third-most defensive stops (21) against the run among SEC defensive tackles, per PFF.

So, let’s dive into the Texas product’s tape and see what he could bring to Las Vegas.

Alfred Collins with a nice rep vs a combo block to stay in his gap and force RB to bounce #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/iwQ7clejze

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

Again, Collins is more of a projection at nose tackle after primarily lining up as a 4i-technique as he does in the clip above. However, his ability to hold his ground against double teams and combo blocks is the biggest reason why switching positions should be a seamless transition.

Collins is on the front side of Michigan’s counter run where the right tackle and tight end combo block him before the tackle works up to the second level. Meanwhile, Collins does a great job of attacking the man he’s lined up across from, using good pad level and hand placement to win at the point of attack.

Then, the Texas product feels the tight end coming and turns his body into the pressure, preventing the tight end from getting a clean block. That results in some penetration from Collins, which forces the running back to bounce outside. Since the right tackle couldn’t get a clean release up to the second level, that linebacker is free to make the tackle.

This is a good example of Collins making the play without actually making the play. He plugged up the C-gap while disrupting the right tackle’s block to make his teammate’s job easier.

Alfred Collins with a nice 2-gap rep #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/rQtYpdVTSo

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

Here, we’ll get a good look at what the former Longhorn can do at nose. He’s playing a traditional technique for the position where he’s 2-gapping, meaning he’s responsible for both A-gaps. Also, he’s taking on a combo block from the left guard and center.

At the point of attack, Collins once again does a good job of focusing on beating the man he’s lined up across from while using his strength and leverage to gain control of the block. Combined with using a wide base, that allows him to absorb contact from the guard and fulfill his assignment.

With the running back lined up on the defense’s right, Collins initially shows color in the left A-gap since most running plays will have the running back cross the center in the backfield. So, the back sees the playside rushing lane is plugged and cuts backside. However, since the defensive tackle won at the point of attack against the center, he can cross the center’s face to fulfill his other assignment before making the tackle in the backside B-gap.

After a rep like this, it’s easy to see why Collins can line up at nose in the NFL.

Not sure I've seen a more dominant rep at the point of attack than this one from Alfred Collins #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/zRWdIpf3ou

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

Part of what stands out about the Texas product’s tape is that he’s dominant against one-on-one blocks.

Georgia runs split-zone toward Collins in the play above, but the right guard doesn’t give the right tackle nearly enough help before working up to the second level. That puts the right tackle mano a mano with Collins and that matchup does not end well for the offense.

Again, the defensive tackle has great leverage, hand placement and strength to gain control of the block. So, when the running back commits downhill, he easily sheds the right tackle and with enough violence that the tackle ends up face-first on the ground. Finally, Collins finishes the rep by bringing down the running back right at the line of scrimmage.

Can't 1on1 block Alfred Collins #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/UoOjPE5TPY

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

We’ll see a similar rep here, the Bulldogs just run inside zone without the split zone action in the backfield and Collins is on the backside of the play. That means he’s taking on a one-on-one block from the right guard and while the block destruction isn’t as dominant, it’s just as effective.

Collins keeps his pads down and hands tight again, which allows him to reset the line of scrimmage and escape the guard’s block. This is a good example of how his nearly 35-inch arms help against the run, as he creates plenty of extension against the guard. That puts him in a perfect position to make the tackle for a short gain when the running back crashes downhill.

Alfred Collins slants into the A-gap, beats the center's block and makes another tackle for a short gain #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/v0j0JBKI94

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

This time, Texas slants the defensive line to the weak side of Florida’s formation.

That puts Collins, who lines up as a 4i-technique, into the strong side A-gap where he takes on the center. He defeats the block with the same great technique mentioned several times above, showcasing his strength to get extension and knock the center backward. From there, it’s easy for the defender to escape and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.

Part of what makes the former Longhorn such a disruptive run defender is he forces offenses to use two offensive linemen to block him as he’ll defeat one-on-one blocks all day. And, as we’ve seen above, sometimes the double teams and combo blocks don’t even work.

Alfred Collins isn't someone I'd expect to get consistent pressure, but he ranked t-2nd with 6 batted passes last season per PFF#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/pr1D9sWrHb

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 14, 2025​

Against the passing game, Collins isn’t much of a factor as a rusher with only 18 pressures on 305 pass rush snaps last season, per PFF. But he is good at getting his hands up and batting passes at the line of scrimmage. PFF had him with six batted passes last season, which were tied for the second-most among FBS defensive tackles.

In the clip above, Texas runs a four-man pressure where the left outside linebacker drops in coverage while one of the off-ball linebackers blitzes. Additionally, they call a flush stunt where the defensive line slants to the wide side of the field and the blitzer loops around to the other side, trying to find a pass rush lane.

Collins does a solid job of working across the right guard’s face and wins the rep by taking the guard with him and getting some penetration. It’s not a clean win though, meaning the offensive lineman is still attached to him and the quarterback has enough time to throw.

So, the defensive tackle gets his hand up, batts the pass and gives his teammate an opportunity to come up with an interception. Granted, the edge rusher literally lets the ball slip through his hands...

---

According to NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board as of April 14, Collins is currently projected to be a late-second- to early-third-round pick. If he’s still available at No. 68, don’t be surprised if the former Longhorn is the starting nose tackle in Las Vegas next season.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...nfl-draft-alfred-collins-texas-film-breakdown

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders roster: Get to know Kyu Blu Kelly

Kyu Blu Kelly | Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images

Raiders’ holdover has history with new coach Pete Carroll

The Las Vegas Raiders will have some competition at cornerback and one player to keep an eye on Kyu Blu Kelly.

Let’s take a closer look at Kelly:

Size:

6-0, 193 pounds.

NFL experience:

He was drafted in the fifth round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2023. He did not make the team in training camp. The Seattle Seahawks, coached by now-Raiders coach Pete Carroll, claimed him off waivers and he was the Seahawks’ roster until November of his rookie season. He also spent time with the Green Bay Packers and Washington Commanders before signing to the Raiders’ practice squad early in the 2024 season. He was promoted to the 53-man roster in December. Kelly has played in 12 NFL games, including five for Carroll and four with the Raiders.

College:

He was a long-time starter at Stanford.

How he will fit in with Raiders:

Kelly, who turns 24 next month, has a chance to make the 53-man roster at a young cornerback position for the Raiders. The fact that he is a bigger cornerback who has history with Carroll could help his case.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/15/24404248/raiders-roster-kyu-blu-kelly-cornerback

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Kolton Miller reportedly staying away from voluntary workouts

Kolton Miller | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Standout left tackle wants a new contract

A key member of the Las Vegas Raiders’ foundation is reportedly staying way from the opening phase of the Pete Carroll tenure.

ESPN reported Wednesday afternoon that standout left tackle Kolton Miller has been skipping the voluntary offseason program because he wants a contract extension.

#Raiders LT Kolton Miller is not currently participating in the voluntary offseason program as he seeks a contract extension, per source.

Miller, 29, is a seven-year starter and 2026 free agent. Las Vegas has not engaged in contract talks with the former first-round pick. pic.twitter.com/wGhr8j05Jn

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 16, 2025​

Miller is a free agent after this season and has no guaranteed money remaining his deal. Miller, 26, as the Raiders’ first-round pick in 2018 and he has been an upper-level left tackle.

It is not a surprise he is taking this stance. Players around the NFL often skip the voluntary offseason program when they want a new deal. The Raiders started the offseason program last week under Carroll.

The mandatory minicamp is set for June 10-12 in Las Vegas. If a new deal isn’t completed by then and Miller still stays away, he will be subject to fines. The same goes for if he stays away from training camp, which begins in late July.

This, of course, has potential to go badly if a deal isn’t figured out. But right now, it’s just part of the process as Miller makes his feeling known as he joins wide receiver Jakobi Meyers as a 2026 Raiders’ free agent who is interested in a new deal.

Miller is the Raiders’ most veteran and most accomplished offensive lineman on a young unit. They could take a tackle early in the draft such as LSU’s Will Campbell or Missouri’s Armand Membou if they decide they don’t want to extend Miller. If that is the case, he could become a trade candidate.

Miller is entering the final year of a three-year, $54 million deal in which he received a $42 million in guaranteed money. He probably will be looking for an uptick of that deal this time around. The Raiders have plenty of salary-cap room to get a new deal done.
When speaking about re-signing veterans at the NFL owners meetings, new Las Vegas general manager John Spytek said he likes to get to know players before re-sign them. The new Raiders’ regime did give defensive end Maxx Crosby an extension this offseason.

Now, Miller is making it known he wants to be next.

Sign up and go to the comments section.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ews-kolton-miller-voluntary-workouts-contract

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

James Cook trade? Fans not feeling it

James Cook | Photo by Rich Barnes/Getty Images

Many Raiders fans would not approve of deal for Buffalo running back

There has been some rumors that the Buffalo Bills could end up trading standout running back James Cook before the draft.

The Bills and Cook are reportedly at odds because they are having trouble getting a contract done. Cook will likely remain with the Bills, but if thing shit a head, a trade could be made.

If so, the Las Vegas Raiders have been speculated as a potential fit. The Raiders, of course, badly need a running back. We recently asked our community members if they would be in favor of the Raiders swinging a trade for Cook, likely for a third-round pick.

And the overwhelming answer was ... pass. In a poll with almost 700 votes cast, 71 percent of the voters would pass on a Cooks trade, while 29 percent like the idea.

I get and agree with the majority of the voters.

This is a strong running back draft class and while Cook, who has averaged 4.9 yards per carry in his career and had 16 rushing touchdown last season, is explosive and is just 25, he’d be expensive.

The Raiders are probably better off just keeping their picks and drafting their own tailback.

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

BowersHasPowers
No trade for a RB with a stacked draft. It makes no sense at all.
Dafe2cat
I wouldn't trade a pick this year for a RB. The team will be able to improve the RB room without adding a higher priced vet. Stick to the draft and let Bills figure out how to handle Cook.
Ought_oh
In the salary cap era, running back is one of those MUST position for having starters on rookie contracts. Now, if your back is a Barkley or McCaffrey type after four years, yeah, maybe pay some big bucks, but not for a 'good' back. They almost literally fall off of trees come draft time.​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/4/17/24401319/raiders-james-cook-trade-runnng-back-bills