RSS Raiders Team Notes

[Las Vegas Raiders]

The fullback position will return to Las Vegas Raiders

HENDERSON, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 10: Former Las Vegas Raiders player Marcus Allen (L) greets Klint Kubiak as he arrives for a news conference introducing him as the head coach of the Raiders at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on February 10, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Klint Kubiak is re-energizing Raider Nation as the new Las Vegas Raiders head coach.

And for good reason.

Kubiak represents a beacon of hope for a football team that featured one of the worst offenses the storied franchise witness in 2025. The incompetence rivals the Bed & Breakfast offense way back in 2006 and was a sever low-light in former head coach Pete Carroll’s long career.

The Silver & Black lack an identity — unless you consider a comedy of errors a true Raiders characteristic — is ever present as the team cycled through head coaches. Kudos for owner Mark Davis not wanting to let things linger and make moves to fix mistakes, but boy, there’s a ton of miscues.

And the 38-year-old Kubiak represents a potential solution. A dedicated grinder with elite offensive expertise, the newly-minted head honcho in Las Vegas has the skillset to turn the moribund franchise around. And we’ve written quite a bit about how the Raiders move forward with Kubiak, such as how Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is a fit for the lead man’s offense, to bad roster fits, and can the head coach maximize speed on the roster.

For me, though, I’m an old-school traditionalist in one particular way: A true fullback on the roster. And with Kubiak as head coach, that OG position appears on the horizon of return. If you’ve read my stuff before, you now I’m a special teams and fullback truther. And based on Kubiak’s history as an architect of an NFL offense, fullback is in his repertoire. He confirmed this week the Raiders will be looking for fullbacks this offseason.

The Seahawks are converting fifth-round pick Robbie Ouzts from tight end to a 274-pound fullback, part of their vision for a more physical run game under new OC Klint Kubiak. But he’ll have to beat out Brady Russell, who’s making the same switch.

Ouzts on his new position: pic.twitter.com/EecfmlTH6d

— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) May 3, 2025

From C.J. Ham during his stint with the Minnesota Vikings, to Adam Prentice with the New Orleans Saints, and most recently Robbie Ouzts and Brady Russell with the Seattle Seahawks, Kubiak is keen to use a stout presence as the lead blocker in his offense.

Once a distinct and traditional 53-man roster spot, Kubiak’s arrival portends to a break in a 40-year cycle returning.

As you can see above, Ouzts — taken in the fifth-round (175th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft — converted from tight end at Alabama to a 6-foot-3 and 274-pound fullback in Seattle. Russell also brings size to the table at 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds. Ouzts played in 12 games with two starts this past season notching 203 offensive snaps (27 percent of the Seahawks’ total). Russell was primarily a special teamer with 396 snaps (87 percent of the team total) while notching 58 on offense (six percent).

Kubiak’s tendencies tailor towards 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends) and 21 personnel (two running backs and one tight end), and with a talented young tailback as the bell cow — Ashton Jeanty, the sixth-overall pick in the 2025 draft — maximizing potential is mission critical. Thus, having a big presence as his lead blocker is equally integral. Having extra beef leading the way with improved offensive line play can give Jeanty much-need time to operate in 2026 after the running back finished his rookie season with 975 yards and five touchdowns on 266 carries (3.7 yards per carry average) along with 55 receptions for 346 yards and five more scores.

Getting more dedicated coaching and concentration in the trenches with a lead-blocking fullback can only help Las Vegas rise from the 32nd-ranked ground game in terms of yards (1,317) and touchdowns (five).

Klint Kubiak and the Raiders process

– Klint was “conflicted” with interviewing during the Seahawks playoff run.

During his 2nd interview he told LVR, “I owe everything to these players.”

– SUN, FEB 1st, John Schneider told the Raiders that Kubiak would accept the job. pic.twitter.com/erQ08JnoxH

— 12 AS ONE (@12ASONE24) February 16, 2026

Kubiak Method​

The Raiders new coach and offensive play caller isn’t a one-dimensional cat. When presented with a true fullback on the roster, Kubiak knows what to do with them. And when there isn’t one, he’s apt to take a tight end and convert them to the position group.

When Kubiak joined Seattle’s coaching staff as the offensive coordinator, he spoke openly about his preference for 21 and 12 personnel, noting he certainly loves playing with a fullback. The presence of one in Kubiak’s system helps establish the run game as a cornerstone and both the outside and wide zone, alongside power elements, are a family tradition dating back to his father Gary Kubiak and the Shanahan coaching tree of Mike and Kyle.

A hard-nosed and physical fullback gives Klint Kubiak the ability to create horizontal and vertical movement to pave the way for running backs — such as Alvin Kamara (New Orleans) and most recently Kenneth Walker III.

That noted, lead blocking isn’t their only task.

Kubiak uses timely shifts and pre-snap motion to force the defense’s hand and help identify or adjust coverages they’ve called.

In-House Options​

Whatever happened to JJ Pegues being used on offense?

The Ole Miss’ defensive tackle was taken in the sixth round (180th overall) of the 2025 draft and brought versatility as a short-yardage back in Lane Kiffin’s offense. The 6-foot-2 and 325-pound linemen rushed for seven touchdowns in 2024 and in his rookie season in Las Vegas, Pegues logged zero snaps on offense. With his size and feet, Pegues should get some looks on offense with Kubiak now as the offensive orchestrator.

Boys, I think we got something here.

310lb JJ Pegues is doing fullback drills out here and it absolutely looks like it would work. pic.twitter.com/ciioXCVuz0

— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) February 27, 2025

Carter Runyon is a potential conversion from tight end. The undrafted free agent stands 6-foot-4 and 243 pounds and logged 45 offensive snaps his rookie season this past year (13 games played, zero starts). The Towson product has NFL speed (4.62 40-yard dash at pro day sprints) and is more of a pass catcher, but he has shown the ability to be a move blocker than can shift the defense and provide pop on inside and outside runs.

Runyon has the speed, leaping ability, and hands to be a threat out of the backfield which, in turn, can force a defense to account for another potential pass catcher. If Runyon can improve as a blocker and put on more weight to his frame, he has a chance to stick as a converted fullback.

Feel A Draft​

The traditional fullback position is going extinct across both the pro and collegiate levels, but it’s not gone yet. And if the Raiders are inclined to snag a prospect at the position group this April in the 2026 draft, there’s some standout talent.

Michigan’s Max Bredeson brings ample size (listed at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds) and excellent lead-blocking skillset coming from a pro-style system the Wolverines deploy. Indiana’s Riley Nowakowski also brings good size (6-foot-1 and 247 pounds) alongside a versatile skillset as he played fullback, tight end, and even offensive lineman in the Hoosiers offense.

There’s also outside-the-box prospects like Ohio State’s CJ Donaldson (6-foot-2, 237 pounds) and Air Force’s Dylan Carson (6-feet, 230 pounds) that are power ballcarriers who bring requisite physicality to be lead-blocking types.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...fullback-position-return-to-las-vegas-raiders

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders NFLPA survey results further highlight 2025 season coaching staff issues

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 04: Head coach Pete Carroll of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on in the second quarter of a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Chiefs 14-12. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The failures of the short-lived Pete Carroll era for the Las Vegas Raiders have already been well-documented, and the NFLPA survey results are not doing last year’s coaching staff any favors.

ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler obtained the results, which were voted on by players on NFL rosters from Nov. 22 to Dec. 11, and the Raiders received mostly positive grades. Mark Davis/Tom Brady/Team Ownership received an A, general manager John Spytek received an A-, and all of the facilities received marks in the ‘As’. However, Carroll and Co. didn’t fare so well, with the head coach leading the pack at a C+ and former offensive coordinator Chip Kelly getting an F.

Treatment of Families: A
Home Game Field: A-
Food/Dining Area: A
Nutritionist/Dietician: A
Locker Room: A
Training Room: A
Training Staff: A
Weight Room: A+
Strength Coaches: A
Position Coaches: C+
Offensive Coordinator: F
Defensive Coordinator: C
Special Teams Coordinator: C-
Team Travel: B
Head Coach: C+
General Manager: A-
Team Ownership: A

So, outside of team travel and the coaching staff, the Raiders are sitting at about a 4.0. That’s pretty good, and the good news is last year’s crew is mostly gone. Now it’s up to Klint Kubiak’s staff to right the ship, and the Raiders could become a top organization in the league if he can get the franchise back on track.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-raiders-nflpa-survey-results-coaching-staff

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

What switching to 3-4 defense means for Maxx Crosby, Tyree Wilson, Las Vegas Raiders’ current roster

Sep 7, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Tyree Wilson (9) reacts with defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images | Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

At the NFL Combine, new Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak told reporters that the defense will shift to a 3-4 base under recently promoted defensive coordinator Rob Leonard. With Patrick Graham running the unit, the Raiders used odd fronts (which is what a “3-4 defense” really means in the modern NFL), but it was more of a sub-package and even fronts (or 4-3) were Graham’s base.

What does that mean for the Raiders’ current roster and, more specifically, the front seven? Well, every linebacker that took a significant amount of snaps last season is scheduled to hit free agency next month anyway, so we’ll focus on the defensive line here.

Maxx Crosby​

To address the elephant in the room, no, this change doesn’t mean Crosby is for sure getting traded. That’s not to say he won’t get dealt for a bunch of draft picks, it just means the shift in scheme shouldn’t impact that decision. Crosby has lined up outside of offensive tackles for over 95 percent of his career snaps, according to Pro Football Focus, and is athletic enough to play as a standup outside linebacker on the line of scrimmage. It’s just a matter of him getting comfortable playing out of a two-point stance rather than a three-point stance. While the five-time Pro Bowler favors the latter, he has mixed it up in the past.

Tyree Wilson​

Wilson has primarily been an edge defender to this point in his career, but the change in scheme should push him inside to a 4i-technique (inside shade on the offensive tackle). That’s to the Texas Tech product’s benefit, as his skill set fits the role well and, personally, where I felt he was going to have the most success in the NFL when he was coming out of college. Lining up inside offensive tackles will allow Wilson’s strength and length to thrive as a run defender, while mitigating his subpar athleticism and bend.

Jonah Laulu​

In a similar sentiment, Laulu is also best when lining up as a 4i-technique. The 292-pound defensive lineman is a little light to play as a 3-technique (outside shade on the guard), which has caused him issues taking on double teams over the last two years. But five-man fronts are designed to take away combo blocks from the offensive line since one more defender is on the line of scrimmage compared to a 4-3 scheme. Additionally, Laulu’s quickness and athleticism should shine through more when playing from a wider alignment.

Adam Butler​

Butler is in a tricky situation because he has played some 4i-technique in Las Vegas but is built more like a 3-tech. Also, the soon-to-be 32-year-old might already be on his way out after a dip in production from 2024 to 2025, and with the organization likely looking to get younger this offseason. Per Over The Cap, Butler would be about a $4.4 million dead cap hit with about $2.2 million in savings if he’s cut pre-June 1, and those numbers switch to $3.33 million and $3.24 million post-June 1. If the Raiders could find a trade partner, the hit and savings figures are roughly $2.2 million and $4.4 million pre-June 1, and $1.1 million and $5.5 million post-June 1.

Tonka Hemingway​

One of my concerns when Las Vegas drafted Hemingway was that he’s a bit of a tweener size-wise, too small to be a 3-technique defensive tackle and too big/not athletic enough to be a 5-technique defensive end in the NFL. However, those types of defensive linemen typically thrive as 4is, since the position is, at a high level, a hybrid between the two previously mentioned alignments. In other words, the 2025 fourth-round pick fits the Raiders’ new scheme well and should compete with Wilson and Laulu for a starting spot during training camp, with how the roster is currently constructed.

Thomas Booker IV​

Booker is a restricted free agent, which puts his future with the Silver and Black in doubt, but also means the organization can easily bring him back if the coaching staff feels he fits the new scheme. The 301-pounder is built more like a 3-technique and that’s primarily where he lined up last season, but he does have experience playing in odd fronts with the Philadelphia Eagles. So, cases could be made for Booker to get re-signed or for the Raiders to let him walk.

JJ Pegues​

Pegues is another tricky fit. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 325 pounds, he’s built like a nose tackle and took reps there last season. That helps since Las Vegas’ need for a gap-filler in the middle of the trenches increases with the shift in defensive philosophy. However, the Ole Miss product had difficulties holding his gap against double teams as a rookie, which is a nose tackle’s biggest responsibility. The way I see it, Pegues will have a chance to battle for playing time, but the front office should be bringing in some competition this offseason.

Others​

Malcolm Koonce would be a good fit as a stand-up outside linebacker, but Koonce didn’t look like the same athlete he used to be after suffering the knee injury ahead of the 2024 campaign. It still seems more likely that the 2021 third-round pick walks in free agency this offseason.

Meanwhile, Charles Snowden is a restricted free agent and was a good run-defender as a stand-up linebacker last year to make a case to return in 2026. Brennan Jackson didn’t play for the Raiders last season after getting claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Rams and battling an injury. But Jackson was a good fit as an odd front edge defender coming out of Washington State, and played in that role during his short tenure with the Rams.

Still, the Raiders should be in the market for an edge this offseason and two if Crosby gets traded. A few quality options on Day 2 of the NFL draft are: Illinois’ Gabe Jacas, Oklahoma’s R Mason Thomas and Michigan’s Derrick Moore. For free agency, Odafe Oweh from the Los Angeles Chargers/Baltimore Ravens, Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins/Eagles and Boye Mafe from the Seattle Seahawks.

As mentioned above, Las Vegas is going to need a nose tackle. Pegues and late-season pickup Brodric Martin could help fill out the depth chart, but some top-end talent is needed at the position. Luckily, this year’s draft class has a bunch of quality nose tackles like Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald, Texas Tech’s Lee Hunter and Iowa State’s Domoniue Orange, to name a few. The options are more limited in free agency with DJ Reader from the Detroit Lions, Khyiris Tonga from the New England and Khalen Saunders of the Jacksonville Jaguars/New York Jets leading the pack.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-roster-3-4-defense-maxx-crosby-tyree-wilson

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders draft: Cover linebackers that can boost Las Vegas’ defense

PALO ALTO, CA - NOVEMBER 1: Kyle Louis #9, Cameron Lindsey #24, Isaiah Neal #2 and their Pittsburgh Panthers teammates celebrate an interception by Louis during an ACC college football game against the Stanford Cardinal on November 1, 2025 at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, California. (Photo by David Madison/Getty Images) | Getty Images

NFL Scouting Combine season is a great time for nuggets of information.

All 32 teams descend upon Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis to get an up-close look-see at the 2026 NFL Draft prospects and it’s often a place where the squads talk business.

For the Las Vegas Raiders, it was an opportunity for both second-year general manager John Spytek and new (and rookie) head coach Klint Kubiak to get in front of a mic and media to field queries. And there was quite a nugget dropped by Kubiak: The Silver & Black are slated to deploy a 3-4 base defense under new (and rookie) defensive coordinator Rob Leonard.

Under previous defensive coordinator Patrick Graham (2022-25 and now Pittsburgh Steelers defensive boss), Las Vegas deployed a 4-3 front and often, a 4-2-5 nickel formation as its base defense. It was a scheme where at most, two to three linebackers were on the field at the same time.

With a 3-4 front on horizon, the Raiders’ lack of linebacker depth is brought to the forefront. But the return to that base formation harkens back to the Silver & Black’s trio of Lombardi trophies: The Raiders three Super Bowl wins were with 3-4 front defenses.

The #Raiders will operate out of a base 3-4 under DC Rob Leonard.

Leonard has been on staff since 2023 as Maxx Crosby’s position coach and secured the job after what Kubiak described as an “impressive” interview and a clear vision for the unit. #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/aCtqxC1dy8

— Taylor Rocha (@TaylorRocha) February 25, 2026

That noted, let’s take a look at linebacker prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft that can help not only fill roster voids, but also bolster the team’s depth a month after free agency.

Specifically, the linebackers who have the profile and skillset to remind Raider Nation of cover-types in the mold of William Thomas (2000-01, 166 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss, four sacks, 9 interceptions (one pick six), 17 pass deflections) and Thomas Howard (a stellar 2007 season with 96 total tackles, six interceptions (two pick sixes), and 11 pass deflections).

The Prospects​

Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh​

Don’t let his listed measurements of 5-foot-11 and 224 pound dissuade you. Louis may be undersized but he’s a playmaking linebacker that can drop into zone or man in coverage and not be a liability. Boasting the athleticism and speed alongside the ability to diagnose and react to plays, Louis quickly finds the football and makes a play on the ball and/or the person on the receiving end.

With 182 total tackles over the course of the last two seasons at Pittsburgh (101 total in 2024), Louis also racked up 24 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and six interceptions (one pick six) and six pass deflections. If Pro Football Focus (PFF) is your jam, the group gave Louis high marks since the 2024 season, ranking him first in tackles for loss/no gain stops and quarterback pressures and eighth in coverage.

Louis has the potential to be a faster version of Seattle Seahawks linebacker (and former Raiders undrafted free agent) Drake Thomas.

Pittsburgh LB Kyle Louis is one of my favorite sleeper prospects in a stacked LB class

– only 220 lbs, but takes on and sheds 2nd level blocks efficiently
– elite in coverage; plays more like a slot corner in man/zone/at the catch point
– twitched up athlete with… pic.twitter.com/alOpBVu7AR

— Drew Beatty (@IronCityFilm) January 11, 2026

Taurean York, Texas A&M​

Another undersized prospect at 5-foot-10 and 232 pounds, York is a defensive captain-type prospect who brings high IQ, communication and leadership to the table along with a hard-nosed attitude as a linebacker.

An extension of the defensive coordinator on the field, York got Texas A&M’s defensive front adjusted and put in the best possible position to succeed while also aligning the other parts of the defense.

With his burst in short areas and his ability to accelerate allows York to not only chase down outside runs but keep up with receiving options. His awareness and intelligence make him quite the nuisance for the quarterback and receiving options.

While he doesn’t bring ideal long speed, York has requisite effort and urgency to play the game. Racking up 229 total tackles in three seasons, York notched 25.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, one interception, and seven pass deflections.

Harold Perkins Jr., LSU​

This 6-foot and 222-pound prospect is a decisive, athletic, and physical linebacker who has the explosiveness to mirror whom he’s tasked to cover. Perkins has the speed and physicality to keep up in coverage — man or zone — and has the required drive to be a downhill punisher against the run.

Perkins reads and reacts quickly and will run through the opposition for tackles. While he was much more electric pre-2024 when he tore an ACL, Perkins still has the athleticism to keep up with receiving options, albeit not at that elite level previously.

That noted, Perkins totaled 56 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks, three interceptions, and a trio of pass deflections this pas season for LSU. Overall, he closed his collegiate career with 220 total tackles, 35.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions, and 10 pass deflections.

At 6'4 240, #Cincinnati LB Jake Golday has checks off boxes with his ideal NFL frame, plus elite experience and production at the position.

His athleticism and range are undeniable, leading him to total 26 solo tackles in only four games, Top-5 in the Big 12.

He'll be up… https://t.co/H6Y4uAfegc pic.twitter.com/WBI6jsFK3E

— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) October 4, 2025

Jake Golday, Cincinnati​

Now here’s one big linebacker prospect at 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds. With the size, Golday brings the speed and frenetic energy as an attacking defender who takes on blocks as a run defender while also blitzing to defend both the run and pass.

His best work comes near the point of attack, Golday’s size and athleticism make him a prototype defender to matchup with tight ends. While he may be susceptible to smaller running backs coming out of the backfield, Golday’s build and physicality can be a supreme nuisance in coverage against bigger wide receivers or tight ends.

The linebacker closed out his two-year collegiate career at Cincinnati with 163 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, and five pass deflections.

The Omission​

One prominent prospect omitted from above is Ohio State’s Sonny Styles. The main reason why the 6-foot-5 and 243-pound linebacker — the possess prototypical size, speed, and production — is the Buckeyes’ defender is projected to be a Top 10 pick in April.

The Raiders do have the No. 1 overall pick and while a trade down is a possibility (and acquiring additional draft picks in that swap), unless Las Vegas lands another first-round pick, Styles is likely end up elsewhere.

The safety-turned-linebacker still maintains the defensive back fluidity to be a true man-press tyle cover man — even at the pro level. And with his premium size and weight, Styles is a nightmare matchup for tight ends. His speed and agility allows him to mirror running backs, too.

Closing out his Ohio State career with 244 total tackles in four seasons, Styles racked up 22.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, one interception, and nine pass deflections in that timespan.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-linebackers-that-can-boost-las-vegas-defense

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman can add versatility to Las Vegas Raiders’ secondary in 2026 NFL Draft

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - JANUARY 01: Dillon Thieneman #31 of the Oregon Ducks pursues a play on defense during the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl against the Texas Tech Red Raiders on January 01, 2026 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders have plenty of avenues they can go down with the 36th overall pick of the 2026 NFL draft, partially because the defense has plenty of holes that need to be filled. One of the Raiders’ biggest needs is at safety, putting Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman on general manager John Spytek’s radar.

Conveniently, Thieneman currently ranks 36th overall and as the third-best safety in the draft class on NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board (as of Feb. 24), putting him in a good spot to head to Las Vegas. Also, the former Duck would bring some much-needed versatility to the Raiders’ secondary.

Thieneman was primarily a free safety during his first two college seasons at Purdue. However, after transferring to Oregon, he recorded a career-high 434 snaps in the box during the past campaign, while still playing nearly 250 snaps on the back end of the defense, according to Pro Football Focus. Additionally, he lined up over the slot for another 118 snaps.

So, beyond having experience playing multiple positions on defense, what could the former Boilermaker and Duck bring to Las Vegas? Let’s flip on the tape and find out.

Dillon Thieneman with a nice move to make the G miss and provide some run support #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/TOuWIjPXZP

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

Playing more strong safety in 2025 allowed Thieneman to stand out more as a run defender, recording a 75.9 PFF run defense grade and 18 ‘defensive stops’ against the run. The latter was tied for fifth among Big Ten safeties, and the clip above is a good example of how that figure came to be.

Oregon used this defensive formation a lot, where Thieneman is about six to seven yards off the line of scrimmage and in the A-gap, almost playing more like a deep middle linebacker. That can help a defender get the full picture of the offense’s play call, allowing his instincts to shine through.

Once Thieneman recognizes USC is running a halfback dive to the wide side of the field, he starts to creep down toward the line of scrimmage. However, rather than crashing downhill with reckless abandon, he’s measured to avoid getting caught in the trash and running into a block. That gives him more space to operate and make the guard miss. Considering the safety is at about a 110-pound disadvantage in that matchup, that’s a smart decision.

From there, Thieneman makes a nice form tackle, using a wide base and good knee bend to get low while wrapping up on contact, stopping the running back’s momentum and limiting the offense to a short game. Granted, that doesn’t come without some help, as being a more forceful tackler is one area of improvement for the former Duck. But the biggest reason this is a positive play for the defense is that its safety provided excellent run support.

Love this combo of Football IQ and open-field tackling form Dillon Thieneman

-Senses the Jet sweep coming with USC's motions
-Sees handoff & avoids the trash
-Crashes downhill & has speed to meet Lemon at the LOS
-Breaks down and makes the tackle for no gain#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/lCYg4WBvZ1

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

This time, Thieneman is on the backend of the defense and lined up over the slot. His football IQ is on display pre-snap, directing traffic when the Trojans shift their two tight ends out wide and pointing out the jet sweep as soon as wide receiver and projected first-round pick Makai Lemon starts to motion across the formation.

But this isn’t just pure jet sweep from USC. It’s an inverted veer where the quarterback has the option to keep the ball and run off left tackle on the power run that the offensive line is blocking for. So, the safety stays inside the hash mark to protect against the quarterback run until he sees the handoff. Once the exchange happens, Thieneman crashes downhill and has the speed to meet Lemon at the line of scrimmage, making a nice open-field tackle for no gain.

This is a great example of a deep defender providing run support to make an impact play.

Dillon Thieneman reads RB screen/swing pass, beats the WR's block and comes up with the tackle #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/c0Nc9Nq3AR

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

This is pretty similar to contributing as a run defender. Another element of the Oregon product’s game that stands out is his ability to defend screens, and the rep above combines a few elements from the last two clips.

Thieneman lines up in the same strong safety/deep MLB alignment seen previously, as Penn State motions the tight end to the wide side of the field and throws a swing pass to the running back. Meanwhile, Thieneman starts to cheat to the tight end pre-snap and immediately flows toward the sideline post-snap. Then, he makes a move to defeat the wide receiver’s block and be in a position to make the tackle on the running back, preventing a one-on-one situation between the running back and deep safety in the open field.

Granted, this is another example of Thieneman giving up extra yards after contact, which is going to be an issue at the next level, especially against running backs. But defensive coordinators can trust him to be in the right spot and make tackles, recording just nine misses at an 8.3 percent rate last season, per PFF. It’s just a matter of adding some extra size and strength if he’s going to be playing in the box frequently in the NFL.

Dillon Thieneman with a good close from depth against a screen #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/m5Ww9PjW4C

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

We’ll take a look at another screen here, and this time, our subject comes from depth to save the defense from potentially giving up an explosive play.

It looks like the Ducks are running Cover 4, putting Thieneman 15 yards past the line of scrimmage when the ball is thrown. Once he recognizes the screen, the safety crashes downhill and pursues to the football. The latter is a basic fundamental but ends up being crucial on this rep since the cornerback misses the tackle.

Luckily, Thieneman takes a good angle to cut off the wide receiver and makes the open-field tackle to keep this play to a relatively short gain. Had he loafed and not been in the right spot, this would have been at least a first down and a potential touchdown. But the safety does his job and keeps the defense in a position to get off the field.

Play action leaves the drag route open, but a nice read and trigger from Dillon Thieneman in a single-high alignment prevents the 1st #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/IiPE6jZifV

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

Moving on to a couple of coverage reps against downfield passes, the former Duck’s sure tackling continues to shine.

Penn State does gain nine yards on this play, but that’s primarily due to a good play call against Oregon’s defense. They’re in Cover 7 (a variation of Cover 3 with man-match principles), where the two defensive backs are playing with outside leverage to funnel the receivers toward the middle of the field. However, the Nittany Lions run play action where the offensive line and running back sell an outside toss toward the short side of the field, getting the linebackers to step toward the line of scrimmage and away from the drag route from the outside receiver.

As a result, the drag is wideopen for an easy pitch and catch. But Thieneman recognizes that, immediately crashes downhill from a single-high alignment and makes a great tackle to prevent yards after the catch and a first down. Facing a 2nd and one, the defense is still in an adverse situation, but it at least has a chance to get off the field with a couple of short-yardage stops thanks to its safety.

Best play Dillon Thieneman made last season:

-Crashes downhill vs PA and pulls up late to bait Allar into the throw
-Hits the brakes and gets up for a game-winning INT
-Gives Oregon a big road win in early conference play#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/pmqsI5z05t

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 24, 2026

We’ll wrap up with the best play Thieneman made last season, in my opinion.

It’s overtime and Penn State needs to score to keep the game alive. They dial up a play-action pass, and the safety starts to crash downhill on the run fake. However, he uses that to his advantage by continuing to move toward the line of scrimmage well after the quarterback pulls the ball from the running back, baiting the quarterback into the throw.

Once the quarterback starts his throwing motion, Thieneman hits the brakes and pivots toward the sideline to close the gap against the tight end on a wheel route. Finally, he shows off some athleticism by going up and high-pointing the ball in the air to come down with a game-winning interception and pull off the big win on the road.

This play also had ramifications for the rest of the season. It was Penn State’s first loss, eventually leading to James Franklin getting fired as head coach, and helped propel Oregon into a 13-2 record and a run in the College Football Playoffs. Talk about making an impact!

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-draft-dillon-thieneman-oregon-film-breakdown

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Older prospects don’t deter Las Vegas Raiders GM John Spytek

Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Combine extended eligibility granted during the COVID-19 pandemic alongside Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) coin and opportunities and it’s no surprise the scouting landscape changed for many NFL teams.

Add the wrinkle of the Transfer Portal into that mix and prospects are staying in college longer resulting in “older” draft eligible players entering the NFL Draft. What used to be a field of 20 and 21 year old’s is now one that has rookies 24 or older. And the longstanding red flag of age is being flipped on its head.

In accordance with that, the 32 squads are presented with choice: Adapt or get left behind.

Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek has no intentions of getting dusted.

When asked about how he evaluates age now and how much does it detract from a player’s upside during his media session at the NFL Scouting Combine earlier this past week, Spytek didn’t stutter.

“I wouldn’t say it detracts a ton. Our analytics department gets mad at me anytime we put a guy up there that’s a little bit older, that’s in a sixth year and whatever, but we’re just looking for good football players, and there’s a million things that we evaluate as part of the process,” the Raiders GM said. “And it’s a little bit of a unique spot in college right now with some of the guys coming off that COVID year and getting extra years and six years and seven years, you see now too. So, we’re just looking for good football players at the end of the day.”

"We're in the business of trying to have great football players and Maxx is a great football player…"@Raiders GM John Spytek on DE Maxx Crosby.

https://t.co/YXzFxzff6U#Raiders | #RaiderNation | @KirkMorrison pic.twitter.com/1PvSpqQtT9

— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) February 24, 2026

Hearing Spytek expand on how he approaches NIL showcases he’s a personnel man that is adjusting to what’s presented to him in the draft. And as he went on, you heard the Raiders general manager’s insight on how money for college athletes is a positive thing — likely a unique perspective.

“I actually think it’s made it easier, because you know what the guys are going to do when they have money,” Spytek said when asked how challenging the evaluation of a prospect’s hunger for the game with NIL coin. “I mean, you know the ones that love the game and are about the right things, and just because they’ve got more money than we all had when we were in college, they still prepare the right way, they play the right way, they love the game, they’re there for their teammates, and I think it’s kind of been a little been illuminating to the character of who they are.”

There are intriguing prospects that are 24 and older as we progress through the combine and head towards the draft in April. From Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor (25 in April), Texas Tech edge David Bailey (24), LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane (24), LSU quarterback Garret Nussmeier (24), Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller (24) and Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, the mature prospect list has impressive prospects.

And by all appearances, Spytek won’t be deterred adding an older rookie to the roster so long as they have passion for the game and are good players for a Raiders team that doesn’t have enough of them.

Curious to know what kind of intangibles Spytek looks for in a draft prospect?

“Humility, a great passion to play the game of football. It’s such a hard game. Your competitive spirit has to run really high. You’ve got to be willing to play through a bunch of tough circumstances,” Spytek explained. “And to me, it always goes back to the love of the game. The guys that truly love the game of football, they love to practice, they love to prepare, they love to watch film, they love to play hurt. So, I mean those things — I’m kind of uncompromising on those things.”

.@BrianCoz asked #Jets GM Darren Mougey if he would call the #Raiders about trading up for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 #NFLDraft:

‘I talk to [John] Spytek & those guys often. As I do with other teams, talking about moving up & moving back. Absolutely we will talk about all of… pic.twitter.com/6pG9Wy6wQw

— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) February 24, 2026

The 2026 class will mark the second in Spytek’s tenure as the Raiders chief personnel man. And Klint Kubiak is the second head coach the GM will be building a roster with. The first-year head coach inherits the 2025 draft class Spytek selected alongside former coach Pete Carroll.

“Yeah, of course. I mean, I saw them every day in practice. I saw them get better. It was good to see a lot of them play more at the end of the year and have success,” Spytek began when asked for an early assessment of his 2025 draft class, “I mean, Tonka (Hemingway) had a bunch of sacks the last few games. JJ (Pegues) had had a chance to play. Charles Grant got two and a half quarters. So, I’m comfortable with where those guys are at.

“They’re about the right things. They’re football guys first. They’re in the building training every day. I don’t think Caleb Rogers has missed a day since the season ended right now. So, I’m happy with those guys. They’re on the right path.”

And this offseason, it’ll be Kubiak working alongside Spytek to build a roster that puts the head coach in the best possible position to succeed. And the Raiders aren’t hurting in terms of assets to use this offseason, be it cap space (projected to be at or slightly below the $90-million mark) and draft picks (10, and perhaps more in the form of compensatory selections).

There are obvious roster holes that need to be filled — namely quarterback — and navigating the flush cap room and bringing in free agents smartly to drafting for need or best player available will be a challenge. And Spytek isn’t shy to admit it’s going to be quite the task.

“Yeah, that’s kind of the chess match of all of it, like the team building part of it. So, we’re working through that right now, and we’ll figure that out. But I mean, you can pass in free agency thinking you’re going to get one in the draft and then leave a massive hole on your roster too. So, we’ll come up with a strategy and attack it the best we can.”

With pragmatic Kubiak as his head coach, it’s going to be intriguing how the two go about building the Raiders through 2026 and beyond.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-dont-deter-las-vegas-raiders-gm-john-spytek

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Complementary running back a must for Las Vegas Raiders

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 04: Ashton Jeanty visits SiriusXM on Radio Row at Super Bowl LX on February 04, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM) | Getty Images for SiriusXM

Peruse a needs list for the Las Vegas Raiders and the top two areas of focus are routinely quarterback and offensive line — and for good reason.

The Silver & Black’s quandary at the game’s most important position is well-documented as signal caller is a misadventure. Then there’s the group in front of said quarterback that was the Achilles heel of Pete Carroll’s football team last season. Of course, Carroll has no one to blame but himself for those shenanigans as he was the head coach who hired his son Brennan to lead a group that he had no business doing so.

And, as they say, the proof was in the pudding — moldy and pungent as it could be.

While the question of what do the Raiders do at quarterback and offensive line have potential answers on the horizon — namely using the first-overall pick on Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and both cap space and draft capital for reinforcements in the trenches — it’s good to hear new head coach Klint Kubiak also talk the backfield. Specifically the running back and — much to my glee — fullback positions.

The Raiders new lead man and offensive play caller knows he has a bell cow-type in second-year tailback Ashton Jeanty and is well-aware of what the sixth-overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft brings to the table.

“He’s a three-down back, so he should be able to help you in multiple ways,” Kubiak said during his media session at the NFL Scouting Combine last week. “Run the football, catching it, protecting — if you’re going to be on the field on all three downs you have to be able to do all three of those, and he has that. I really liked diving into his rookie season.”

"He's going to be a major building block of our offense."#Raiders HC Klint Kubiak believes Ashton Jeanty is a 3-down back with 'all the tools' but his success will be aided by 'whoever that second back is running the ball well.' pic.twitter.com/c3F02IgnqE

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) February 25, 2026

Kubiak also readily admits while Jeanty is plenty capable, having a complementary running back on the roster to spell the workhorse is mission critical.

“We definitely want to have a two-man show, guys that can share the load,” Kubiak said. “It’s a long season. You don’t want to put all the carries and targets on one guy. So right now we’re identifying guys that are available in the draft, identifying free agents we might go after, looking at our own roster and seeing who can share that. It’s important that Jeanty has a wingman.”

In Jeanty’s rookie season, there was no such wingman. While Las Vegas did have running backs Raheem Mostert, Zamir White, and Dylan Laube on the roster, compared to Jeanty’s 266 carries, that aforementioned trio combined for 41 total carries. Mostert, 34 in April, had the most with 22 carries while White notched 12 and Laube seven. Mostert and White are upcoming unrestricted free agents while Laube heads into Year 3 as a sixth-round pick (208th overall) in the 2024 draft.

Unless general manager John Spytek and Kubiak are confident they can recapture White’s 2023 form (104 carries for 451 yards and a touchdown) and re-sign the fourth-round pick (122nd overall) from the 2022 draft, Jeanty is likely going to have new backfield mates.

Free agency is up first with the legal tampering period opening on Monday, March 9. And the sexiest name on the open market is Kenneth Walker III, who was Kubiak’s running back as Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator. The 25-year-old second-round pick (41st overall) in the 2022 draft galloped for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns on 221 carries this past season and was a determined runner in Seattle’s Super Bowl run. Walker is going to command a pretty penny on the open market, though.

Over The Cap has an annual average salary valuation of $6.281 million while Spotrac has a much higher $9 million annual average salary market value for the Walker.

Or, the Raiders could go to the Spytek well and nab Rachaad White in free agency. The 27-year-old third-round pick (91st overall) in the 2022 draft was taken by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Spytek was the vice president of player personnel in Tampa at the time) and rushed for 572 yards and four touchdowns on 132 carries while adding 218 yards on 40 receptions this past season for the Bucs.

Rachaad White is a good downhill runner. Strong enough and quick enough in short bursts to break arm tackles, and has good vision to find extra yards at the second level. pic.twitter.com/SVgGhLbqPj

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

Then there’s the draft in April giving the Raiders even more opportunity to find a complementary back to help keep Jeanty fresh and add another wrinkle for the opposing defense to account for.

While a prospect like Norte Dame’s Jeremiyah Love is likely to be out of reach for Las Vegas — he’s projected to be a Top 10, if not Top 15 selection in the 2026 draft — his teammate Jadarian Price may be within range. There’s also talented tailbacks in Arkansas’ Mike Washington Jr. (who blazed a 4.33 40 time at the combine), Washington’s Jonah Coleman, and Wake Forest’s Demond Claiborne (4.37 40).

Price didn’t showcase much three-down usage, how could you with a talent like Love in front of you, but was a great teammate and complementary back in the Fighting Irish backfield. Washington, meanwhile, brings good size and electric speed to be a lethal outside runner or screen/swing pass receiver.

Coleman is compact but has the contact balance and decisiveness that will remind folk of Jeanty as a runner/receiver. And Claiborne is a slash-type runner who can produce explosive runs and provide a jolt to a team’s run game as a change-of-pace/complementary option.

While Kubiak is confident he can get Jeanty and the offensive line rolling, adding more talent at running back, quarterback, and in the trenches is a must-do.

“He’s going to be a major building block of our offense, but his success will be because the offensive line is blocking well, our second back is running well, the quarterback is making good decisions — we want to bring the best out of Jeanty, but that comes with the team playing well. He has all of the tools to be successful,” Kubiak said of his starting running back.

Jonah Coleman (5’8 227) Washington

+ Bowling ball build
+ Contact balance
+ Decisive runner
+ Powers through arm tackles
+ Capable in pass protection
+ Patient to allow blocks to set up
+ Improved receiver with a career-high 354 receiving yards in 2025
+ 34 career rushing… pic.twitter.com/yZ7M0Apfmj

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) February 5, 2026

And it’ll be good to see an old-school traditional position back in the Raiders’ fold with Kubiak at the helm. The lack of a fullback in Las Vegas the last two seasons is mind boggling considering the team went decades by fielding one.

And adding a fullback to the roster is something Kubiak is seeking to do.

“It is important,” the Raiders coach said of the position in his system. “You have to find the right guy, and if you can find that guy, then he becomes a big part of your offense.

“They are harder to find. So that’s the fun part right now, especially in the draft, is seeing who is available and who we can develop. Free agent-wise as well. I’d love to play with a fullback, but you have to play with your best 11. So we’re going to be on the lookout for one for sure.”

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ary-running-back-a-must-for-las-vegas-raiders

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Safety Genesis Smith could be the playmaker the Raiders are looking for

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Arizona defensive back Genesis Smith (DB47) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders are studying prospects at the NFL combine with the hopes of adding young talent to the roster and helping the football team. The quarterback position should be addressed with th first pick, but other positions will be filled with later draft picks on days two and three.

The secondary needs a boost in younger talent, especially at safety. The safety group is deep in this draft class, and the Raiders could end up adding multiple prospects for the back end of the defense.

A player on the rise during draft season is Genesis Smith from Arizona. Smith is a true free safety with incredible range who knows how to bait quarterbacks into making mistakes. He is fluid in his movements at 6’2 “, 202 pounds, with long arms, and would be a welcome addition to the Silver and Black.

Genesis Smith has an intriguing skill set at 6'2 for a safety. Athleticism pops off in the film.

The closing speed to almost pick this ball off from the opposite hash. pic.twitter.com/Mox2YugCTY

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) February 5, 2026

Smith spoke about his length and how it helps him succeed at his combine press conference.

“I feel like when the ball is in the air at its highest point, it’s always mine. I feel like I can go up and get the ball, and my vertical and explosion are a big part of my game as well.”

An area where Smith has struggled during in college career was tackling. He had a 20% missed-tackle rate in 2025, according to PFF. He understands it is a concern for NFL teams and knows he can improve.

“A lot of the question marks with my game have just been my consistency in tackling. Angles and striking point, just keeping my pad level down is what coaches and GMs want to see.”

Smith’s instincts and coverage skills might make him a steal in this year’s draft. The Raiders could be the thieves who make it happen.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-be-the-playmaker-the-raiders-are-looking-for

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

10 NFL Combine winners for Las Vegas Raiders’ 2026 NFL draft needs

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez (LB21) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

We’re creeping closer to the 2026 NFL draft with the NFL Combine wrapping up this past weekend. With that, let’s take a look at a few prospects who stood out in Indianapolis and fit the Las Vegas Raiders’ needs.

LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech​

Rodriguez’s size and, more specifically, his lack of length are a concern, measuring in at an even 6-foot-1 and with sub-31-inch arms. However, he crushed the workout portion of the combine by running a 4.57-second 40-yard dash (1.60 10-yard split), 38.5-inch vertical, 10-foot-1 broad jump, 4.19-second short shuttle and 6.90-second 3-cone to earn a 9.52 Relative Athletic Score.

That highlighted the Butkus Award-winner’s lateral movement skills, which were evident on tape, but the 40 time is what really caught my eye. Long speed was one of my concerns about Rodriguez entering the combine, but he answered the call.

OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State​

The Raiders could use an upgrade at right tackle, and Iheanachor’s performance over the last couple of months should put him firmly on the organization’s radar. The former Sun Devil was one of the best offensive tackles at the Senior Bowl and crushed it at the combine to earn a 9.91 RAS. He measured in just under 6-foot-6 and at 321 pounds, while running a 4.91-second 40 (1.73 10-yard split) and jumped 30.5 inches in the vertical and 9.78 in the broad.

The Nigerian native grew up playing basketball and soccer and didn’t pick up football until junior college, making him a raw prospect. But, as this past weekend showed, Iheanachor has plenty of tools and athleticism to work with.

G Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon​

Grip strength stands out on Pregnon’s tape, so measuring in with 11-inch hands checks out. He’s the type of blocker who can control defensive linemen when he lands his punch. On top of that, the former Duck weighed in at nearly 315 pounds and posted some really impressive jumps at that size: 35 inches in the vertical (tied for second among OL) and a 9-foot-3 broad. That was good enough to post a 9.42 RAS.

S Lorenzo Styles Jr., Ohio State​

The Styles family made plenty of headlines at Lucas Oil Stadium, as linebacker prospect Sonny Styles was one of the premier performers on Thursday evening. Lorenzo had a great workout as well, recording the second-fastest 40-yard dash of all prospects at 4.27 seconds, and posting the fourth-best vertical jump (39 inches) among safeties. The defensive back didn’t have much draft buzz heading into the combine, but his testing numbers could help him sneak into the later rounds of the draft.

DB Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina​

The Raiders need help at safety and nickelback, which should put Kilgore on their radar since he has experience playing both positions. The former Gamecock also did himself some favors at the combine, running a 4.40-second 40-yard dash, 37-inch vertical and 10-foot-10 broad jump, all while measuring in at 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds. That resulted in a 9.66 RAS.

CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State​

Johnson was another prospect whose long speed was a bit of a question mark heading into the combine, but he eased those concerns with a 4.4-flat 40. The former Aztec also had good vertical (38 inches) and broad (10-foot-6) jumps to post a 9.71 RAS.

At 6-foot even and with sub-31-inch arms, he does lack length and might get moved inside in the NFL. However, that should deter the slot-corner-needy Raiders, and Johnson showed off the strength to contribute as a run defender by putting up 17 reps on the bench press. The film backs up the latter, too, as he has no problem being physical and mixing it up in the ground game.

CB Daylen Everette, Georgia​

Looking at outside cornerbacks, Everette turned some heads by running the second-fastest 40-yard dash (4.38 seconds) at the position. He also posted good numbers with a 37.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-4 broad jumps to earn a 9.82 RAS. Additionally, the Georgia product drew praise from Bleacher Report’s Daniel Harms for his performance in the untimed drills.

“The former Bulldog was excellent during on-field drills, with smooth transitions and explosive movements,” Harms wrote. “In fact, he ran one of the day’s best gauntlet drills by plucking the football out of the air and staying down the line with balance. He bounced back from a poor showing at the Senior Bowl and made a great impression.”

EDGE Malachi Lawrence, UCF​

Lawrence tore it up at the East-West Shrine Bowl and continued to build up some draft stock during the combine. He finished second or third among edge defenders in just about every athletic test, running a 4.52-second 40, 1.59-second 10-yard split, 40-inch vertical and 10-foot-10 broad jump. That was good enough for a 9.90 RAS, and the film backs all of it up as the UCF product offers plenty of pass-rush potential as a Day 2 pick.

DL Zane Durant, Penn State​

With Las Vegas shifting toward a 3-4 base defense, Durant could be an option to line up at the 4i- to 5-techique spot. At 6-foot-1, 290 pounds and with sub-32-inch arms, the Penn State product is a tweener size-wise, but he had an excellent workout on Thursday to build up his draft stock. Durant earned a 9.20 RAS by leading all defensive tackles in the 40 (4.75 seconds) and 10-yard split (1.68 seconds) and ranking tied for third in the vertical jump (33.5 inches) and tied for fifth in the broad (9-foot-4).

DT DeMonte Capehart, Clemson​

Capehart doesn’t have much draft buzz right now, but he had an excellent performance at the combine, making some noise with a 9.97 RAS. His measureables are impressive, standing at 6-foot-5, 313 pounds with nearly 34-inch arms while running a 4.85-second 40-yard dash (1.72 10-yard split) and recording a 33.5-inch vertical. The former Tiger took some snaps at nose tackle for Clemson and is solid against double teams to at least land on Las Vegas’ radar.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...026-nfl-draft-combine-winners-jacob-rodriguez

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh, Las Vegas Raiders top 3-4 EDGE options in free agency

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 20: Jaelan Phillips #50 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on December 20, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Regardless of what happens with Maxx Crosby this offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders should be looking to add at least one edge defender to the roster. The defense lacked a true difference maker on the other side of Crosby to take some of the pressure off him last year. Also, head coach Klink Kubiak said at the combine that Las Vegas’ defense will pivot to a 3-4 base under recently promoted defensive coordinator Rob Leonard.

So, using Pro Football Focus’, The Athletic’s and NFL.com’s free agent rankings and keeping the new scheme in mind, who are the Raiders’ top options at edge during 2026 NFL free agency?

Jaelan Phillips​

PFF ranking: 14 overall (EDGE3)

The Athletic: 3 (EDGE2)

NFL.com: 3 (EDGE1)

Phillips has spent the better part of the last three seasons playing for Vic Fangio, as Fangio was the Miami Dolphins’ defensive coordinator in 2023 and the Philadelphia Eagles traded for the pass-rusher ahead of the deadline last fall. So, the five-year pro certainly knows how to play as a standup outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Also, he’s one of the best free agents available this offseason when it comes to putting pressure on the quarterback, ranking ninth at his position with 73 pressures last season, per PFF.

However, the Raiders would have to be comfortable taking a risk with Phillips’ injury history. He suffered multiple injuries in college, including a temporary medical retirement while at UCLA, and missed nine games in 2023 with a torn Achilles and 13 in 2024 after tearing an ACL. That being said, it’s worth noting that Leonard was the Dolphins’ outside linebackers coach during Phillips’ rookie year in Miami.

Odafe Oweh​

PFF ranking: 7 (EDGE2)

The Athletic: 12 (EDGE3)

NFL.com: 9 (EDGE3)

On a similar note, Las Vegas could have an inside track to sign Oweh since Leonard was the Baltimore Ravens’ outside linebackers coach in 2022, Oweh’s second year in the league. Additionally, the 2021 first-round pick has been a consistent and productive pass-rusher with 47 to 51 pressures and at least five sacks during the regular season in four out of five years. He’s also done a better job of converting those pressures into sacks over the last two campaigns, recording 20.5 sacks (including playoffs) in that timeframe. Oweh is a questionable run defender, though, which is why he’s only recorded 27 career starts in 79 total games played.

Boye Mafe​

PFF ranking: 22 (EDGE4)

The Athletic: 28 (EDGE5)

NFL.com: 11 (EDGE4)

Another player the Raiders have a connection to since Mafe and Kubiak just won a Super Bowl together in Seattle. Mafe’s production took a dip in 2025, recording career lows in tackles (31) and sacks (two), which was the result of him becoming more of a role player after making just four starts. The Seahawks were deep at edge this past season, especially after signing DeMarcus Lawrence in the offseason. Despite that, the 2022 second-rounder has put up at least 40 pressures in each of the last three regular seasons, topping out at 58 in 2023. Also, he’s arguably the best run defender listed here, making him the most complete player of the bunch.

K’Lavon Chaisson​

PFF ranking: 91 (EDGE12)

The Athletic: 45 (EDGE7)

NFL.com: 34 (EDGE6)

After a career-year in Las Vegas two seasons ago, Chaisson continued that momentum and outdid himself again in New England with 7.5 sacks and 10 TFLs. He also had three sacks during the Patriots’ Super Bowl run and set a personal best with 54 pressures during the regular season. The latter was nearly double the former Raider’s previous high (29). At the end of the season, John Spytek talked about how he let good players leave the building during free agency last year, and Spytek has a chance to correct a mistake by bringing Chaisson back to the desert this spring.

Joseph Ossai​

PFF ranking: 213 (EDGE25)

The Athletic: 74 (EDGE10)

NFL.com: 48 (EDGE8)

Ossai had a slow start to his career, missing his entire rookie season with wrist and knee injuries that needed surgery, and struggling to see the field much until year three. However, the 25-year-old who turns 26 in April is just scratching the surface of his potential and has been a decently productive pass-rusher over the last two years, totaling 74 pressures and 10 sacks. Ossai does leave something to be desired against the run and has had a tough time staying healthy, though. He played through a torn shoulder labrum in 2022 before hyperextending a knee and missing the Super Bowl that year, missed two games with a high ankle sprain the following year, and sat out the last three contests of this past season with another ankle injury.

Honorable mentions: Kwity Paye, Azeez Ojualri, Josh Uche

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-free-agency-edge-jaelan-phillips-odafe-oweh

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Tristen Kuhn 2026 NFL Draft Defense ‘My Guys’ – Combine

Oregon inside linebacker Bryce Boettcher knocks down a pass by Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the Oregon Ducks face the Indiana Hoosiers in the Peach Bowl on Jan. 9, 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. | Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The concept of “my guys” is essentially a prospect you would pound the table for and/or someone that you are higher on than the consensus boards. In 2024, some notable prospects for me included Cam Hart, Michael Penix, DJ Glaze, Dylan McMahon, Jalyx Hunt, Graham Barton, Ruke Orhorohoro, and Brandon Dorlus. 2025 saw some notable names such as Jacory Merritt, Konata Mumpfield, Efton Chism, Charles Grant, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Darien Porter, and Zah Frazier. With that in mind, let’s jump into the 2026 combine edition:

*Some players when I release this in April will stay the same, but others will change as boards move and I have scouted more prospects, I have around another 250 to go*. Additionally, here was my “My Guys” in November:

For notes, in November I posted my midseason “my guys” which included Cole Payton, Barika Kpeenu, Elijah Sarratt, Eli Stowers, Max Iheanachor, Emmanuel Pregnon, Keylan Rutledge, Clev Lubin, Whit Weeks, D’Angelo Ponds, and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren. Here is my offensive my guys for this class for the combine.

IDL Chris McClellan, Missouri

My Grade: Early 4th | Consensus: Mid 5th

The 6’4, 323 defensive tackle likely is going to play a true 0-1 and sometimes 2 shade technique at the NFL level. McClellan has massive size and pairs that with solid NFL athleticism for the position. He posted 48 tackles, 8 TFL, and 6 sacks in 2025 with a career 17 TFL and 10.5 sacks. McClellan has elite lower body power, a quick first step, and violent active hands. He’s likely to be a significant run defender in the NFL and will see the field on early downs, but his pass rush traits do have some notable flashes that will call for development in his NFL career.

IDL Carlos Allen Jr, Houston

My Grade: Late 3rd | Consensus: UDFA

The former Kennesaw State product has a career 56 pressures, 10.5 sacks, and 97 stops but he’s been highly productive with Houston posting 11.5 TFL, 5 sacks, 3 PBU, 2 FR, and 2 FF in 25 games with another 26 pressures, and 57 stops through two seasons. Allen is a smaller lineman at 6’0, 300 but he showcases elite athleticism in his lower body to pair with athletic hips, fluid footwork, and good hand combat skills. Allen is likely to translate to a 2 technique instead of the traditional NT that he played at Houston but the athletic traits, minus size, are something to bank on especially with his level of run defense. Allen is likely to fall down boards but should be a good pickup later in the draft or as a UDFA.

Houston DT Carlos Allen Jr should generate more attention by the draft:

Smaller frame (6'1, 300) but extremely active run defender. Showcases good first step quickness, has ability to work laterally. Active violent hands. Shows good strength at point of attack and all around… pic.twitter.com/n9e69iezlR

— Tristen Kuhn (@KuhnTristen) February 25, 2026

EDGE Cian Slone, NC State

My Grade: Late 4th | Consensus: UDFA

Slone poses a good NFL frame at 6’4, 252 and in his three seasons at Utah State & NC State, he’s posted 22.5 TFL, 11 sacks, an interception, 5 PBU, 2 FR, and 3 FF along with 85 pressures, a 17.5% win rate, and 63 stops. Slone showcases every athletic trait that a team is going to be keyed on, he plays with phenomenal athleticism, elite first step quickness, and a high end ability to bend the edge, and utilize his speed to power conversion. Slone has quick violent hands, and does need to improve as a run defender where he’ll consistently over pursue or whiff on his block if he’s not pushed out of the way. However, Slone showcases an NFL caliber frame, good core strength, and the athleticism to bank on developing into a productive rotational pass rusher at the NFL level.

Cian Slone has serious juice and LAYS PEOPLE OUT https://t.co/4n8W7m160V pic.twitter.com/4yK4axFVdL

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) December 22, 2025

EDGE Max Llewellyn, Iowa

My Grade: Late 3rd | Consensus: Early 6th

Llewellyn is coming off back to back 35+ pressure seasons, also turning in 48 tackles, 18 TFL, and 12 sacks over that time with another 9 PBU, and 3 forced fumbles. Llewllyn has an NFL frame at 6’5, 260 though his arm length is slightly under expectation. Llewellyn showcases NFL caliber athleticism, with an elite first step, and quickness around the corner. He showcases good ankle flexibility to bend the corner, a strong lower body that can anchor in run defense, and a spin move that allows him to consistently get past tackles. He’ll need to add more strength at the NFL level, and improve his hand/foot work in pass rush, but he’s showcasing the athleticism and frame to bank on developing into an NFL starter.

ILB Bryce Boettcher, Oregon

My Grade: Early 3rd | Consensus: Early 5th

The former safety also played centerfield for Oregon till this season where he posted 136 tackles, 5.5 TFL, and a sack along with an interception, 6 PBU, and 2 FF with another 36 stops, 11 pressures, and allowing just a 69.3 QBR. Boettcher is new to the position but has an NFL caliber frame at 6’2, 232, and he showcases elite athleticism to no surprise. He’s a fluid mover in space, is able to play sideline to sideline, and has natural coverage instincts to play with his fluid hips and quick feet. He adds a quick downhill trigger and strong closing speed allowing him to quickly get to the flats and come downhill on a runningback. Boettcher will need to learn the position more at the NFL level but his traits, tackling, and instincts will translate.

Bryce Boettcher (6’1 227) Oregon

+ Two-sport athlete that was drafted by the Astros in the 13th round
+ 78.3 coverage grade in 2025
+ Special teams’ staple
+ Football IQ
+ Awareness/instincts
+ Physicality against the run
+ Reliable open field tackler

– Could add some mass to… pic.twitter.com/DJhoah4QAZ

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) January 27, 2026

CB Charles Demmings, Stephen F. Austin

My Grade: Late 4th | Consensus: Early 7th

Demmings, 6’1, 193 turned in a 9.97 RAS this weekend at the Combine after posting a 4.41 40, 42 vert, and 11 broad. Demmings has a career 9 interceptions and 31 PBU during his 2000 snaps at SF Austin. He showcases elite ball skills and athleticism that NFL teams will value. Additionally, he has a physical profile and is physical throughout the route concept, consistently fighting receivers for the ball, and staying on their hip in coverage. He has elite instincts, strong closing speed, an understanding of leverage, and tackles well. Demmings does need to improve with getting handsy at the catch point, and he can be too aggressive at times but he showcases NFL starting CB potential. He allowd just 69 receptions for 1019 yards, and a 67.7 QBR across 150 targets during his time in college.

Charles Demmings, Cornerback from SFASU had some good wins in one on ones at the Senior Bowl. What stood out to me was the way he finishes plays. https://t.co/8OPmj2YRt6 pic.twitter.com/iQWjpDyMSM

— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) February 4, 2026

CB Devon Marshall, NC State

My Grade: Mid-Late 5th| Consensus: UDFA

Marshall projects as an NFL nickel cornerback but also ahs outside versatility. The 5’10, 193 cornerback logged an FBS leading 16 PBU with 2 INT and 50 tackles in 2025 after 2 interceptions and 9 PBU in 2024. Additionally, he’s posted a career 33 PBU along with his time at Villanova and allowed a 64.9 QBR across the last two seasons. Marshall is a fluid mover in space, and showcases an ability to get to the ball at the point of attack. He tackles well, has good short area quickness, and is physical enough to play vs bigger receivers and work the slot. Marshall needs to be more patient in coverage, and overall does have a limited ceiling as his NFL potential is concerned. He’s a limited athlete but showcases the ability to come in and compete to elevate a teams nickel role.

SAF Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech

My Grade: Early 5th | Consensus: Late 7th

Wisniewski transferred to Texas Tech after a career season at North Dakota State where he logged 8 interceptions, 11 pass breakups, and allowed a 31.5 QBR on 35 targets. The 6’4, 220 safety will likely convert to a nickel linebacker role in the NFL or potentially down to linebacker in general. In his one season with the Red Raiders he allowed just 19 receptions for 143 yards, and a 77.4 QBR with 78 tackles, 6 TFL, 2 sacks, and 8 PBU. Wisniewski moves well, but won’t be able to play deep in the NFL, though he’s an above average athlete. Additionally, the safety showcases good instincts in coverage, strong short area quickness, and an aggressive downhill trigger. He does need to improve as a run defender with a career 11% missed tackle rate, but he showcases the ability to run in the slot, play a true WLB role, and matches up well with tight ends. The ceiling is likely limited for him in the NFL, but he showcases NFL ready potential to impact the game at the 2nd level.

If you are looking for a big-bodied, hard-hitting safety in the mid rounds, you could do far worse than Texas Tech's Cole Wisniewski. Love the processing speed on these two plays pic.twitter.com/1FdPo5A5ne

— Jack Brentnall (@Jack_Brentnall) February 4, 2026

SAF Xavier Nwankpa, Iowa

My Grade: Late 4th| Consensus: Late 6th

Nwankpa came into the season as a projected top 100 pick and has fallen down the board, but the 6’2, 215 pound safety is still showcases exceptional instincts and quickness to be a productive NFL safety. He’s turned in a career 171 tackles, three interceptions, 11 breakups, and two forced fumbles through 52 games while allowing just 45 receptions for 509 yards, and a 88.8 QBR. Nwankpa has a career 14% missed tackle rate and it does show in coverage at times, where he consistently will take a bad angle or be out of position, though he does have an exceptional trigger, and natural instincts for the run game which help him be in positions others aren’t able to be in usually. Nwankpa showcases the ability to play deep through his time at Iowa, but also showed the ability to work at a strong safety and could be a versatile piece for defensive coordinators. Nwankpa has declined at times and didn’t develop as expected, but the athleticism and instincts pair well to be a productive late round selection.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...n-kuhn-2026-nfl-draft-defense-my-guys-combine

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders free agency: Center Tyler Linderbaum worth the chase and coin

Jun 10, 2025; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum (64) snaps the ball during an NFL OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images | Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

New head coach, new offensive line, and a new unified direction.

That’s the gist of Klint Kubiak earning the Las Vegas Raiders coaching gig and him tabbing longtime Kubiak-tree branch Rick Dennison as the boss of the trenches. Together, the duo is set to install and drill a zone blocking scheme influenced by Alex Gibbs, the “godfather” of the system. On the surface, there won’t be the ambiguity that was present in the head coach, offensive coordinator, offensive line coach dynamic in Las Vegas. The trio of Pete Carroll, Chip Kelly, and Brennan Carroll was an unmitigated disaster.

Thus the Autumn Wind of change flowing through the halls of Raiders headquarters in Henderson — once more.

For Kubiak’s offense to go — he’s going to call the plays as head coach — it’s imperative Dennison’s offensive line is executing and in unison. And to get there, the Raiders would be wise to spend cap space on a premiere pivot that’s slated to hit the open market when free agency begins next Monday: Tyler Linderbaum.

The Baltimore Ravens’ center the the last four years since being taken by the team with the 25th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Iowa product is an elite player at his position that’s slated to be a focal point for offensive line-needy teams. Las Vegas won’t be alone in its pursuit of the Iowa product but Linderbaum is worth the chase and coin.

The #Ravens remain hopeful they can get a deal done with C Tyler Linderbaum before he reaches the open market, just like they did last year with LT Ronnie Stanley, per sources.

Linderbaum is generating a ton of buzz from teams I’ve spoken to. If he reaches the open market, the… pic.twitter.com/8mOAKACksI

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 24, 2026

In The Zone​

The 6-foot-2 and 305-pound Linderbaum excelled in the Ravens’ primarily gape-heavy power blocking scheme, yet the 25-year-old (26 April 7) pivot has the skillset to be even better in a zone scheme. This is due to Linderbaum’s combination of lateral movement, technical expertise, and the ability to climb to the second level with ease and determination.

That’s a rare combination amongst NFL centers and when you combine those traits with his background as a wrestler, it’s no surprise to hear Linderbaum is going to be a hot commodity on the open market. He’s showcased versatility to be in a power-based blocking scheme while having tailor made ability to be a dancing bear in zone systems.

The blocking scheme that Kubiak and Dennison prefer focuses on athleticism and footwork, alongside the core tenet of zone vs. man. The scheme uses smaller, more agile linemen who can execute in “reach” blocks and double teams at the point of attack before one linemen peels off to engage a linebacker. A reach block is where an offensive linemen gains outside position on a defender — especially on outside/wide zone running plays — to cut across their body and wall them off from the play’s direction.

Linderbaum showcases an impressive ability to do just that. He also is a sound communicator at center and adopted an over-communicating style with Baltimore to ensure his linemates are all on the same page. This is vital for Dennison’s scheme in Las Vegas as another core tenet to the Gibbs’ zone blocking scheme is unison movement — where the entire offensive line moves in the same direction to move the defense horizontally.

Being able to do it is one thing, getting the group of vie to do it as a group is a different beast and Linderbaum has tamed both.

But because of that, Linderbaum won’t come cheap. Expect a bidding war resulting in the him becoming the NFL’s highest paid center as expectations are Linderbaum’s annual average salary to eclipse the $20-million mark. The Raiders do have that kind of coin and a need up front that should have the team competing with the New York Giants, who know have former Ravens’ boss John Harbaugh as head coach.

For reference, the current highest-paid pivot in the NFL is the Kansas City Chiefs’ Creed Humphrey who has a total contract value of $72 million with an average annual salary of $18 million. Behind him is the Philadelphia Eagles’ Cam Jurgens who has a $68 million deal with an average of $17 million per season.

Lloyd Cushenberry is coming off shoulder surgery, but should be fully good to go for the 2026 season. https://t.co/vmaMd90aU0

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 25, 2026

Another Free Agent Option​

Lloyd Cushenberry III is another route for the Raiders to take in terms of offensive line help. The former Tennessee Titans pivot was recently released and has a prior connection to Kubiak as both were with the Denver Broncos: Cushenberry as starting center, Kubiak as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator in 2022.

While starting caliber, Cushenberry isn’t on the same level as Linderbaum, but brings mobility, athleticism, and football intelligence to the table. Cushenberry displays quick feet and the ability to work into the second level and attach to linebackers smoothly.

The 6-foot-4 and 315-pounder is older at 28 (was the Broncos third-round pick (83rd overall) in the 2020 draft) but is slated to command less coin than the more heralded Linderbaum. He did ink a four-year, $50 million deal with Tennessee in 2024 with an annual average of $12.5 million. Perhaps a short-term prove-it deal is on the horizon for Cushenberry.

In-House Pivot​

Las Vegas isn’t without centers on the current roster.

First and foremost, there’s 2024 second-round pick (44th overall) Jackson Powers-Johnson. The 6-foot-3 and 325-pound Oregon product has dabbled at both center and guard since being drafted and is just 23 years old. The previous coaching staff appeared both to put him in the doghouse and not knowing where exactly to put the mauler of an offensive lineman.

There’s also two in-house free agents that are likely to be back on the Raiders roster due to being restricted and exclusive-rights free agents, respectively: Jordan Meredith and Will Putnam. Granted, Meredith (28 years old) played better at guard during his Raiders’ tenure while Putnam (25) is a developmental-type backup.

With the coaching woes in 2025, it’ll be interesting to see how Kubiak’s coaching staff can shape up the offensive line. The early indication is his group of Raiders coaches believes it can get more out of the roster than its predecessors.

Pretty much what I’ve said all off-season regarding Smith. Current staff believes they can get more out of the players on the roster last year. https://t.co/mFSi7UEDeu

— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) March 1, 2026

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ter-tyler-linderbaum-worth-the-chase-and-coin

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders free agency: Eric Stokes atop group of cornerbacks who fit

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Eric Stokes (22) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

While the defensive front is of primary concern, putting the secondary on the backburner is unwise for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Sure, getting defenders that suit new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard’s 3-4 base defensive front is of utmost importance — namely getting more teeth to the pass rush that featured Maxx Crosby as the lone consistent double-digit sack threat — cornerback merits attention of its own. For the pass rush and coverage work in unison: Rushers disrupting and wrecking the quarterback with cornerbacks sticky in coverage giving said signal caller little to no options to throw too.

For Leonard’s defense to click, he needs defensive backs who can hold up their end of the bargain and giving the front time to operate.

Las Vegas did spend draft capital to bolster the position group over the course of the last two seasons by nabbing mid-round prospects Decamerion Richardson (fourth round, 112th overall pick, 2024 NFL Draft) and Darien Porter (third round, 68th overall, 2025 draft) and rolling with undrafted free agents this past season.

But it was a flier signing that stood out the most in that cornerback room. And general manager John Spytek, along with head coach Klint Kubiak and Leonard would be wise to bring back into the fold: Eric Stokes.

Eric Stokes' aerial defense flew under the radar in 2025#RaiderNation https://t.co/sjHYRimq9l

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) January 27, 2026

The 27-year-old first-round pick from the 2021 draft (29th overall by the Green Bay Packers) was a 16-game starter for the Raiders in 2025 and was a sticky cornerback who shadowed receivers on a modest one-year, $3.5 million deal last offseason with Las Vegas after his rookie contract expired.

Stokes’ performance merits a good-size raise — from the Raiders or another team as he’s an unrestricted free agent.

According to Pro Football Reference, the 6-foot-1 and 195-pound cornerback was targeted 60 times allowing 34 completions for a 56.7 completion percentage, 329 yards (9.7 yards per reception average) and just one touchdown. Quarterback’s throwing his way sported a 77.7 rating with Stokes totaling 53 tackles (35 solo), three stops for loss, and five pass deflections. The 2025 campaign featured several career-high marks for the Georgia product and it’s no surprise to see Stokes projected to earn a new contract that pays him $7 million in annual average salary after his modest flier deal with the Raiders.

Based on availability, familiarity, and having the size and speed profile (clocked a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine), Stokes is also a willing tackler (charted for four whiffs by Pro Football Reference) and rarely came off the field for Las Vegas notching 1,037 snaps (98 percent of the Raiders’ defense total), the cornerback is atop the free agents at the position group that are fits for Leonard’s defense. It’s not easy to find tall, physical and sticky perimeter cornerbacks and the Silver & Black would be wise to bring Stokes back into the fold.

Riq Woolen is shaping up to be one of the more polarizing free agents pic.twitter.com/SeRBVvGL5r

— Steven Patton (@PattonAnalytics) February 23, 2026

Another outside corner on the open market that can compete and make the entire cornerback room better is Josh Jobe. I explored the familiarity and and production the Alabama product had last month over the course of the past two seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. And with Kubiak now as the Raiders lead man, he can go to the Pacific Northwest pipeline. Tairq Woolen is also another Seahawks corner slated to hit the open market and Jaylen Watson is another free agent with good size, speed, and strong tackling ability from the Kansas City Chiefs, and those two would be standout perimeter defenders.

But it’ll be intriguing to see if Leonard and the rest of the defensive coaching staff have strict parameters for height, speed, and arm length the previous head coach had.

Where the Raiders do lack depth and options is at slot cornerback. The Raiders deployed veteran Darnay Holmes (unrestricted free agent) and undrafted free agent Greedy Vance in that nickel role while also dropping safety Jeremy Chinn into the slot, too. Vance may get another shot (he’s built for inside duties at 5-foot-9 and 177 pounds), while Las Vegas should give Richardson looks too as he arrived from Mississippi State with good tackling prowess.

A true slot cornerback is in order for the Raider and Spytek can go back to the flier well if he’s so inclined with Kader Kohou. Missing the 2025 season with a partially torn ACL, the 5-foot-10 and 197-pound defender was the Miami Dolphins slot corner the past three seasons showcasing the aggression, physicality, and tackling ability required to operate in shorter areas inside. In three season in Miami, Kohou racked up 180 total tackles (148 solo), 13 tackles for loss, three interceptions, and 28 pass deflections.

But due to missing all of 2025, his market valuation is relatively low at $2-3 million annual average salary. Which is ripe for another prove-it, one-year pact.

Seven months to the day after surgery for a partially torn ACL, impending free agent CB Kader Kohou has been fully cleared medically, agents @davidcanter and @nessmugrabi of @aurasportsgroup tell The Insiders.

Dolphins team physician Dr. Gautam Yagnik performed the surgery on… pic.twitter.com/2yxYTXLxOD

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026

Another option in the slot for Las Vegas: Kyu Blu Kelly.

The fifth-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2023 draft impressed the previous coaching staff to earn eight starts in 2025 and is an exclusive rights free agent (ERFA) — making a return to to Silver & Black a formality of sorts.

The reason for this is simple: If the current team of any ERFAs offers a one-year, league-minimum tender, said player can’t negotiate with other teams and must sign the tender or sit out.

At just 24 years old (25 in May), Kelly is worth another one-year pact after a 2025 campaign that saw him rack up 40 total tackles (31 solo), one stop for loss, three interceptions, and six pass deflections. He was targeted 51 times allowing 32 receptions (62.7 completion percentage) for 460 yards and four touchdowns. And whiffed on just three tackles, according to Pro Football Reference. Kelly notched 579 snaps in the 13 games he played marking a career-high alongside his production.

While the Raiders do have intriguing younger talent in the cornerback room, an infusion of veteran presence via free agency will help the room overall. As would spending additional draft picks to amass even more talent and depth.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...eric-stokes-atop-group-of-cornerbacks-who-fit

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Coby Bryant, Las Vegas Raiders’ top free safety options in free agency

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 03: Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during the first quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on November 03, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Last season, the Las Vegas Raiders ranked 25th in the NFL with just eight interceptions. A big reason is that the roster lacked a true free safety who could patrol the backend of the defense and take the ball away. That makes the position one of Las Vegas’ needs this offseason, but help could be on the way since free agency is just around the corner.

So, using Pro Football Focus’, The Athletic’s and NFL.com’s rankings, who are the Raiders’ top options on the open market at free safety?

Coby Bryant​

PFF ranking: 67 overall (S6)

The Athletic: 42 (S4)

NFL.com: 38 (S2)

Bryant’s NFL career got off to a slow start, as he was playing nickel corner and struggling at that position. However, he switched to free safety ahead of the 2024 campaign, when Mike Macdonald took over as the Seattle Seahawks’ head coach, and has flourished. The 2022 fourth-round pick has seven interceptions and 13 passes defended and has recorded overall PFF grades in the low 70s over the last two seasons. He’s also been a factor in the running game since switching positions, earning marks of 79.5 and 75.2 (including playoffs) in that department. New head coach Klint Kubiak only spent one season with the former Seahawk, but that does give the Silver and Black a small connection with the impending free agent.

Bryan Cook​

PFF ranking: 19 (S1)

The Athletic: 37 (S3)

NFL.com: 29 (S1)

Cook’s ball production is a little underwhelming, with just three interceptions and 15 passes defended in his career. Also, he failed to come down with a pick this past season. But the four-year pro surrendered a career-low 182 yards when targeted and allowed a reception once every 22.9 coverage snaps in 2025 to finish as PFF’s sixth-highest graded safety in coverage (83.2). Additionally, the former Kansas City Chief earned a high mark against the run (80.1) to finish as the site’s fourth-best safety overall (83.5). However, Las Vegas should proceed with caution since Cook could fall into the “one-year wonder” category, never grading out higher than 65.2 before this past campaign.

Jalen Thompson​

PFF ranking: 65 (S5)

The Athletic: 52 (S5)

NFL.com: 74 (S6)

Versatility is arguably Thompson’s biggest calling card. In addition to nearly 2,500 career snaps at free safety (per PFF), he’s also logged over 2,000 snaps in the box and just under 1,200 at slot corner. However, the 27-year-old (turns 28 in July) hasn’t had an interception since 2023 and only has nine PDs over the last two years, meaning he might not have the ball production the Raiders are looking for. That could be chalked up to Thompson spending more time in the box, though. From 2021 to 2023, he was primarily used as a deep defender or slot corner and racked up eight picks and 24 PDs, while recording about 33.4 percent of his total snaps at strong safety. The latter bumped up to 40.2 percent over the last two years.

Reed Blankenship​

PFF ranking: 65 (S5)

The Athletic: 52 (S5)

NFL.com: 74 (S6)

The Raiders could be in a position to buy low on Blankenship since he’s coming off a down season, recording a career-low 32.7 PFF coverage grade with just one interception and four PDs. That being said, the four-year veteran did have good ball production in 2023 and 2024, combining for seven interceptions and 17 PDs, and graded out in the 70s during the first three years of his career. Additionally, Blankenship was a good run defender last season, recording a 73.9 mark and a career-high 11 ‘defensive stops’ in that department.

Alohi Gilman​

PFF ranking: 82 (S12)

The Athletic: 83 (S8)

NFL.com: NR

Gilman has had an interesting career to this point. He was a role player during his first three seasons, then became a full-time starter in 2023 and performed well with two interceptions, 10 PDs and three forced fumbles to earn a two-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Chargers. However, the 2020 sixth-round pick battled injuries and saw a dip in production with just one pick, four PDs and no FFs the following season. Gilman never seemed to be a fit in then-Chargers’ defensive coordinator Jesse Minter’s defense and was traded midseason to the Baltimore Ravens, where he enjoyed a bounce-back performance. The safety didn’t log an interception but had nine PDs (six over 12 games in Baltimore) and the second-highest PFF coverage grade (71.9) of his career in 2025.

Honorable mentions: Kamren Curl, Jaylinn Hawkins, Ar’Darius Washington, Andre Cisco

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-raiders-free-agency-free-safety-coby-bryant

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

What offseason moves should Las Vegas Raiders expect from Denver Broncos?

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 04: Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos and Head coach Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos speak in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field At Mile High on January 04, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Silver and Black Pride is wrapping up it’s offseason preview for each of the Las Vegas Raiders’ division rivals, previously touching on the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs. That means the Denver Broncos will round us out, and Ian St. Clair from our frenemies at Mile High Report was kind enough to answer a few questions about the Broncos for Raider Nation.

Q: Davis Webb received some head coach interest this offseason, including from the Raiders, and Sean Payton decided to fire his longtime assistant Joe Lombardi and promote Webb to offensive coordinator. Was that decision solely to keep Webb in Denver? Do you expect to see any changes in the Broncos’ offense with Webb’s promotion?

A: The move was two-fold: to change things up and get new voices/eyes on the Broncos offense, and to keep Webb with the franchise. There’s no question that Payton and the organization respect Webb. This is more than that. Payton didn’t want the offense to get stale, so potentially giving up play calling to Webb and bringing in a new crop of assistant coaches should help breathe some new life into Payton’s and Denver’s offense.

Q: The Broncos were a Bo Nix injury away from going to the Super Bowl this season and have a fairly complete roster. So, how do you think they will approach the offseason, and what positions do you think they need to improve to get over the hump next year?

A: This offseason is all about doing what the Broncos can to get Nix weapons on offense. To be specific, I’d like Denver to add a top-notch running back, a game-changing receiver, and, potentially, a tight end. Since the Broncos are finally free from the anchor of Russell Wilson’s contract, they have the salary cap space to make those moves happen. Getting Nix a consistent running game and a possible game-changer at receiver will only make Nix and the Broncos better.

Q: The Broncos’ rushing attack was significantly different without running back J.K. Dobbins in the lineup this past season, and Dobbins is a free agent this offseason. If the front office lets Dobbins walk, draft or free agency, who would be your top candidates to replace him?

A: There are two running backs Denver must target if they become available: Breece Hall and Kenneth Walker III.

There’s some speculation that the New York Jets will do New York Jets things and potentially put the transition tag on Hall. That would mean he could still hit the open market, and he jumps to the top of the wish list. Hall with Nix would be a fun duo. As for Walker, we saw his value in the Super Bowl.

Either one of those guys instantly makes the Broncos running game drastically better. They make Nix better. They make the Denver passing game better. Given the importance of the running game in Sean Payton’s offense, and the lack of it the last two years, there’s no question that it will be the top priority for the team this offseason.

Q: Who do you think will be a surprise free agent or a salary cap casualty in Denver this offseason?

A: There’s talk amongst Broncos Country that Denver could move on from either right tackle Mike McGlinchey or left guard Ben Powers. I don’t see that happening. The Broncos have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. Why mess with a great thing? So I think both guys will be back, even if the contracts are restructured.

Since Denver has shored up pretty much all the players they wanted to extend, there really shouldn’t be any surprises. John Franklin-Meyers won’t likely return to the Broncos, given the guys they’ve brought back on the defensive line.

Two guys to keep an eye on: Tight end Evan Engram and middle linebacker Dre Greenlaw may not return. If I had to put a name to your question, though, maybe safety Brandon Jones. After middle linebacker, safety could be the position the Broncos look to improve on defense.

Q: Of the Broncos’ in-house free agents, if you had to pick someone who you’d pound the table to re-sign and someone you’d have no problem with letting walk, who would they be and why? The caveat here is that the players have to have been significant contributors from this past season.

A: I mentioned him just now, but Franklin-Meyers is likely gone, and hopefully Alex Singleton is, too. Singleton has a great story, having survived testicular cancer, but he’s not good at all. He’s a liability every time he’s on the field in literally every scenario he faces, and I do not want him back with the Broncos next season.

What’s funny is I’d pound the table to keep JFM. Since the trade that brought him from the Jets, he’s been really good in Denver. But given the guys and the money they’ve thrown at the defensive line, Franklin-Meyers won’t be back. The second player I’ll pound the table for is Dobbins, but with a caveat. Only if the Broncos miss out on Hall or Walker.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...nver-broncos-offseeason-free-agency-nfl-draft

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Roger McCreary, Las Vegas Raiders’ top nickelback options in free agency

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 14: Roger McCreary #21 of the Tennessee Titans defends in coverage during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams at Nissan Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After letting Nate Hobbs walk in free agency last offseason, nickelback was one of many weaknesses on the Las Vegas Raiders’ roster in 2025. With 2026 NFL free agency just around the corner, Las Vegas has a chance to improve the position by finding a defensive back who can cover the slot.

So, using Pro Football Focus’, The Athletic’s and NFL.com’s rankings, who are the Raiders’ top options on the open market at nickel?

Roger McCreary​

PFF ranking: 103 overall (CB9)

The Athletic: 106 (CB9)

NFL.com: NR

McCreary’s coming off a weird season, beginning the campaign with the Tennessee Titans before getting traded to the Los Angeles Rams and suffering an injury shortly after arriving in Los Angeles. That led to the 2022 second-round pick recording a career-low 416 defensive snaps (including playoffs), but he was good when on the field, logging a 72.0 coverage grade and 68.6 run defense grade from PFF. That’s been the story of McCreary’s career, as he’s been a good nickelback option with his ability to contribute to both phases of the game.

Kader Kohou​

PFF ranking: 188 (CB18)

The Athletic: NR

NFL.com: 79 (CB10)

The Raiders might be able to buy low on Kohou since he missed the entire 2025 campaign after suffering a partially torn ACL at the beginning of training camp. So, there is some risk involved with signing the 27-year-old (turns 28 in Novemember), but he was one of the most efficient slot corners in the league two years ago. Per PFF, Kohou’s 0.81 yards allowed per coverage snap in the slot ranked tied for fifth among corners with at least 101 coverage snaps on the inside.

Alontae Taylor​

PFF ranking: NR

The Athletic: 18 (CB1)

NFL.com: 33 (CB3)

Taylor has bounced back and forth between covering the perimeter and the slot during his career, recording 1,597 career snaps at the former and 1,664 at the latter, per PFF. Not only would the Tennessee product bring versatility to Las Vegas, but he also has great ball skills with 52 career passes defended and mixes it up in the running game, collecting 21 tackles for loss. Additionally, Taylor can provide value as a blitzer, recording seven sacks and 10 quarterback hits over the last three seasons.

Greg Newsome II​

PFF ranking: 221 (CB23)

The Athletic: 125 (CB12)

NFL.com: 75 (CB9)

To be fair, Newsome is more of an outside cornerback who can slide inside on passing downs. The problem is that he’s a subpar run defender, which calls his ability to be a full-time nickelback into question. But the 25-year-old (turns 26 in May) is young, has recorded nearly 1,200 snaps over the slot and 43 passes defended over five seasons. If the Raiders want to sign the former Cleveland Brown/Jacksonville Jaguar, defensive coordinator Rob Leonard could get creative by having Jeremy Chinn take the run downs at nickel while Newsome is on the perimeter and then slides inside in passing situations.

Cobie Durant​

PFF ranking: 160 (CB16)

The Athletic: 118 (CB10)

NFL.com: NR

Along similar lines, Durant has primiarly been an outside corner during his career but does have nearly 700 snaps of exerience lining up over the slot. Physically, the 5-foot-10 defensive back profiles better on the inside and is a decent run defender to at least be an option at nickel. Additionally, he has good ball skills with 26 career passes defended and is coming off a campaign where he had three interceptions during the regular season and added three more during the playoffs.

Honorable mentions: Mike Hilton, Jonathan Jones, Josh Jobe

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...raiders-free-agency-nickelback-roger-mccreary

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders release Alex Cappa

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) with guard Alex Cappa (65) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders continued to make roster moves Friday as they prepare for the start of the new league season starting next week.

Friday morning, ESPN reported the Raiders will release 2025 starting quarterback Geno Smith when the new league year starts Wednesday if he is not traded by then. Friday afternoon, Las Vegas released one of the men in charge of protecting him as they said goodbye to interior offensive lineman Alex Cappa.

Like Smith, Cappa’s release was not a surprise.

Cappa spent one seoans with the Raiders. they signed him shortly before free agency after he was cut by Cincinnati. Cappa and Las Vegas general manager John Spytek were in Tampa Bay together. Cappa and Raiders’ part owner Tom Brady won a Super Bowl together with the Buccaneers.

Cappa didn’t have a great season for the Raiders. He played in all 17 games with eight starts. He signed a two-year, $11 million deal with a $2 million signing bonus. He had a salary-cap number of just over $6 million for 2026. He has $1 million dead dead cap money for this season.

The Raiders are expected to sign one or two starting-caliber offensive lineman in free agency.

In other offensive-line news, the New England Patriots traded center Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears on Friday. The Bears were expected to be one of the Raiders’ competitors for top free-agent center Tyler Linderbaum of Baltimore. Perhaps New England will now get in that mix.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...iders-news-alex-cappa-released-offensive-line

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders trade Maxx Crosby to Baltimore Ravens

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 14: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders runs off the field after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 14, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images

A move that has been brewing for months has finally happened — superstar pass-rusher Maxx Crosby is a former Las Vegas Raider.

According to several reports, the Raiders have traded the heart-and-soul of the franchise to the Baltimore Ravens. The Raiders got a huge haul as they received a 2026 first-round pick (No. 14 overall) and a 2027 first-round pick for Crosby.

ESPN sources: the Raiders agreed to trade five-time Pro-Bowl DE Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for 2026 and 2027 first-round picks.

The trade cannot be processed until next week, but it is in place. And Crosby is expected to be a Raven with two 1s back to Vegas. pic.twitter.com/rfExCLpXfF

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2026

Crosby’s future became in question in late December when the team shut him down for the final two games because of a knee injury that he ended up having surgery for. Crosby said he wants to play and briefly left the team because of his anger. He has often said he was tiring of losing and he wants to win now.

Crosby, who turns 29 in August, is one of the NFL’s best overall defensive ends. He excels against the pass and the run.

Crosby was a terrific value for the Raiders, who drafted him in the fourth round in 2019. Crosby had 69.5 sacks and was one of the NFL leaders in tackles for loss in his time with the Raiders. Crosby, who overcame issues with alcohol after his rookie season, became a team leader and a pillar of the community for the franchise.

Now, he moves on and the Raiders hope the resources gained in his trade will finally make the team a winner, a wait Crosby finally tired of.

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Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/las-vegas-raiders-news/121719/raiders-news-trade-maxx-crosby

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Do Las Vegas Raiders kick tires on Daniel Carlson again?

Jan 4, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders place kicker Daniel Carlson (8) leaves the field after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Joe DeCamillis has the tall task of restoring order to the Las Vegas Raiders special teams unit. It’s a group that was dependable, if not consistent in prior years, however, in 2025, it was more liability than asset.

The lack of execution resulted in blocked field goals and punts and allowing touchdowns on punt and kick off return and the eventual dismissal of former special teams boss Tom McMahon. A majority of the Raiders 2025 coaching staff is out the door alongside McMahon paving the way for Las Vegas to land hotshot Klint Kubiak as its new head coach.

And in comes DeCamillis alongside the new lead man to right the Raiders’ ship. The 34-year coaching veteran — a majority of it focused on special teams — provides the rookie head coach an experienced assistant that was in charge of the Los Angeles Rams 2021 unit that was a strength not liability. Coincidentally, that’s the last time up until this most recent 2025 season, head coach Sean McVay took special teams seriously.

DeCamillis has a serious challenge ahead of him in Las Vegas. The group isn’t without its standouts — like punter AJ Cole III and core special teamer and linebacker Tommy Eichenberg — but the unit needs tinkering. And the big decision is at the kicker spot. For the last eight seasons, that was a gig securely held by Daniel Carlson. But the 31-year-old is an unrestricted free agent and saw a downward slide the last few seasons in terms of conversion rate.

Which beckons: Do the Raiders kick the tires on Carlson again?

Since joining the #Raiders in Week 7 of 2018, K Daniel Carlson (@DanielCarlson38) has made 15-of-17 (88.2%) FGs with a chance to tie the game or take the lead in the last 2:00 of regulation or overtime.

His 88.2% clutch FG percentage over that span leads all kickers in the #NFL… https://t.co/gASfEdyVhr pic.twitter.com/Aogz4ZO3Hl

— Raiders PR (@RAIDERS_PR) January 5, 2026

Since joining the Raiders after getting drafted in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings and cut after two games going 1-for-4 on field goals, Carlson is one of three last-stand Oakland Raiders on the roster — the other two are Cole, left tackle Kolton Miller. The other was edge Maxx Crosby who was traded to the Baltimore Ravens on Friday.

Carlson turned it around quickly joining the Silver & Black an experienced the highest peaks with game-winning kicks in regulation and overtime and the lowest valleys with missed or blocked boots. The Auburn product’s 2020-2022 seasons saw him hit field goal percentages in the 90s with the highest a 94.3 conversion rate in 2020 and then AP All-Pro second- and first-team selections in 2021 and 2022. But its been a downward trend since then as his conversion rates went: 86.7, 85, and 81.5 percent the next three seasons. This past year, Carlson went 22-for-27.

That noted, Carlson is part of a free agent kickers market that features older veterans. The prize of the group is the Dallas Cowboys’ Brandon Aubrey, who has a big-time leg at 31 years old. But the undrafted free agent is a restricted free agent and the Cowboys placed a second-round tender on their kicker, which portends to his return to Big D. Any team that inks Aubrey to an offer sheet must send a second-round pick to Dallas if the Cowboys don’t match.

That leaves Carlson, Jason Sanders (30 yeas old, 37-for-41, 90.2 field goal percentage, for the Miami Dolphins in 2024), Nick Folk (41, 28-for-29, 96.6, for New York Jets in 2025), and Riley Patterson (27-for-29, 93.1, for Dolphins in 2025), as free agent options. Patterson is the youngest of that group and has played for six different teams in the eight seasons he’s been in the NFL.

DeCamillis needs a kicker and it’ll be interesting to see which route he and the Raiders take to fill that void with Carlson slated to hit the open market with the legal tampering period opening this coming Monday.

But free agency in March isn’t the only place to fill the place kicker spot. There’s April’s draft and after it, too.

Kansei Matsuzawa, Hawaii’s kicker who was dubbed the "Tokyo Toe," used grit to become an AP All-American with NFL hopes. Today he will take the field for the Rainbow Warriors for the last time in the Hawaii Bowl against California.#KanseiMatsuzawa #HawaiiBowl #Hawaii #TokyoToe pic.twitter.com/vfxigTYDTX

— The Associated Press (@AP) December 24, 2025

There are a trio of standout prospects in the 2026 draft that have the potential to become long-term solutions at the position if Las Vegas decides to move on from Carlson.

Trey Smack, Florida: On name alone, this Gator has an NFL-made surname. Spending all four seasons in Florida (2022-25), Smack is widely considered the top kicker in the 2026 class going 18-for-22 (81.8 field goal percentage) this past season for the Gators. In the three seasons where he served as the kicker, Smack went 53-for-64 (82.8 field goal percentage) scoring a total of 259 points (career-high mark 98 in 2024). Smack brings a big-leg reputation with him as he ventures towards the pro game.

Kansei Matsuzawa, Hawaii: A two-year presence for the Rainbow Warriors (2024-25), this consensus All-American is considered the 1B to Smack’s 1A. Matsuzawa went 27-for-29 (93.1 field goal percentage) in 2025 and scored 121 points leading the nation in attempts, makes, and point total. While he may trail Smack and others in pure leg power, Matsuzawa is accurate and is relatively new to the kicking game, meaning he’s highly moldable for DeCamillis.

Dominic Zvada, Michigan: Another powerful kicker, this Wolverine will need to rebound after a down senior year. The Arkansas State transfer was stellar in 2024 going 21-for-22 and sporting a nation-leading 95.5 field goal percentage. But this past season, Zvada went 17-for-25 (68 percent). He’s a long-range bomber though and a coach like DeCamillis working to shore up accuracy can give the Raiders a big-legged clutch performer potentially.

Carlson isn’t the lone core special teamer heading to free agency without a new deal. Long snapper Jacob Bobenmoyer, a favorite of former special teams boss McMahon, is also an unrestricted free agent. The Raiders did sign Alex Ward to a future/reserve contract so there’s a long snapper presently on the roster. But filling the kicker and long snapper spots are must-dos and are amongst a myriad of other needs Las Vegas has.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...as-raiders-kick-tires-on-daniel-carlson-again

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Alec Ingold reunion makes sense for Las Vegas Raiders

Oct 12, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins fullback Alec Ingold (30) carries the football against Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Troy Dye (43) during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

On Friday, a report surfaced that the Miami Dolphins intended to release former Pro-Bowl & Raiders fullback Alec Ingold as a way to find cap relief. Ingold, originally signed with the Raiders as a UDFA following the 2019 NFL draft. The Raiders retained Ingold till after the 2021 season where the team announced they would not tender the restricted free agent and Ingold signed with the Dolphins on a 2 year, 6.5 million contract. In the 2023 off-season, the team then signed him to a 3 year, 12.2 million extension making him one of the NFL’s highest paid full backs and having him earn a total of 16.8 million in his six NFL seasons so far.

The #Dolphins and 2023 Pro Bowl FB Alec Ingold are parting ways, sources tell The Insiders. The three-time Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee and team captain had discussions with Miami about a new deal but he will be released and free to sign with a team as soon as today. pic.twitter.com/xGbobcTJF5

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 6, 2026

The 2023 Pro Bowler consistently spoke highly of Las Vegas and the fans, along with his love for the city and franchise after it was announced he would not return. Ingold, will turn 30 in July, and the former Raiders standout should be a hot commodity on the open market. While the NFL is transitioning away from fullbacks, they have seen a resurgence lately with teams holding a fullback on 38% of gameday rosters last season and 9 teams having a fullback on their initial roster. The Raiders were not one of those teams, and haven’t had a fullback since 2023 though new head coach Klint Kubiak reported that the team does intend to bring in a fullback this off-season. The free agent market will contain Ingold, CJ Ham, and Patrick Ricard the consensus three best fullbacks in the NFL and the Raiders should have their pick at who to add. Ingold, a former Wisconsin runningback, has a career 75 receptions, 611 yards, and four touchdowns with another 56 yards and three scores on the ground. Las Vegas will have competition, and as much as Ingold loved the city and fans that coaching staff who brought him into the franchise is far and wide spread out. Ingold, a Green Bay native, is close friends with Packers runningback Josh Jacobs from their time in Las Vegas together. Additionally, Chargers OC Mike MacDonald coached Ingold in Miami, though the Chargers have former Air Force defensive tackle Scott Matlock at fullback. Ingold has remained an exceptional blocker, and the Raiders need to bring in a fullback makes the fit ideal, along with Ingold returning to the franchise he enjoyed playing for during the beginning of his successful NFL career.

Outside Zone Right

Missed opportunity here IMO. Looks as though entire OL expects the Julian Hill/Alec Ingold combo to go to #43 – but those 2 are working up to the CB.

Make cornerbacks make tackles. If Ingold peels back on #43, then Achane has the chance to make the corner… pic.twitter.com/kgfx2H6QPh

— eric smith (@OLCoachSmith63) October 13, 2025

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...old-reunion-makes-sense-for-las-vegas-raiders