News Raiders Team Notes

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Even with Germaine Pratt’s addition, Raiders linebackers still patchwork unit

Linebacker Germaine Pratt (57) is no stranger to the Las Vegas Raiders. He helped end the Silver & Black’s playoff run in 2021 with a game-ending interception in the Wild Card round. | Albert Cesare / The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Veteran adds much-needed depth and experience but Las Vegas long-term planning at position group needs focus

Sometimes, football fate meets football reality.

Such is the case for Germaine Pratt and the Las Vegas Raiders.

When the veteran linebacker found himself cast aside by the Cincinnati Bengals — the team that drafted him in the third round (72nd overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft — the proclamations the Silver & Black sign a much-needed defender to bolster a position of need arrived faster and with more determination than Bo Jackson when he took the handoff against the Seattle Seahawks back in 1987.

Raider Nation and reporters alike quickly connected the dots on a Pratt-Raiders union. And just two days after the Bengals released their former team captain and stalwart linebacker, Pratt and Las Vegas agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $4.25 million.

As our Matt Holder delved into mid-June, the 29-year-old adds another quality run defender to the Raiders linebacker corps. Pratt is an instinctual linebacker who can diagnose quickly, use his strength to blast blockers backwards, and is patient to not get lost in the flow of traffic. His 143 total tackles and five stops for loss in 2024 along with his total sum of 118 tackles and seven stops behind the line of scrimmage in 2023 are a testament to Pratt’s skillset.

I will never forget you, Germaine Pratt. One of the happiest moments of my life. #Bengals pic.twitter.com/fUTEGpVRL3

— Jacob Tissot (@jacobtissot) June 9, 2025​

But even with the addition of the 6-foot-3 and 250-pound North Carolina State product (the same school that produced current Raiders wider receiver Jakobi Meyers and punter AJ Cole III), Las Vegas linebacker room remains a patchwork unit.

And the long-term outlook on the position group is equally as hodgepodge.

Veteran Affairs​

The group of Pratt, Elandon Roberts (31 years old), Devin White (27), and Jaylon Smith (30) are the old heads of the Raiders linebacker room.

Roberts, the elder statesman, heads into year 10 in the NFL after arriving to the scene as a sixth-round pick in the 2014 draft by the New England Patriots. Smith, the second oldest, heads into his seventh season and is a reclamation project as he came into league as the Dallas Cowboys’ second-round pick in the 2016 draft.

White, the youngest of the veteran group heads into year seven and is another reclamation project as he was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ fifth-overall pick in the 2019 draft.

#Raiders LB Devin White talks on being an “energy” guy & trying to match @CrosbyMaxx’s energy. pic.twitter.com/tTv0RSJBzM

— Heidi Fang (@HeidiFang) June 11, 2025​

Each of those aforementioned names are on one-year deals and have plenty to prove to themselves, the Raiders, and the rest of the NFL. Pratt and Roberts represent the most defensive snaps and production out of the veteran group with the former logging 1,078 snaps in 17 games (17 starts) with the Bengals in 2024 with the latter earning 478 snaps in 17 games (14 starts).

In comparison, White played only 176 defensive snaps in 2024 while Smith didn’t play this past season. So it’s clear-cut competition for the vets and younger linebackers on the roster with one glaring item still to be seen: Just how many linebackers will the Raiders deploy on defense?

Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham used a 4-2-5 base alignment for much of his tenure calling the plays and that’ll leave two “starting” spots if that remains to be the case in 2025 and beyond.

The Young Ones​

Of the 10 total linebackers on the Raiders 90-man roster, 6 are 25 years old and under.

Amari Gainer, an undrafted free agent, is a popular youngster amongst Raider Nation as he’s got the size (6-foot-3 and 236 pounds) that seems to fit the bill. He’s the oldest of the younger crop and was a special teamer as a rookie last year. Tommy Eichenberg, who Las Vegas picked in the fifth round of the 2024 draft, also has good size at 6-foot-2 and 233 pounds. The 24-year-old spent his rookie season as a special teams mainstay.

Cody Lindenberg is the Raiders latest rookie (seventh-round pick in the 2025 draft) linebacker coming from Minnesota. He, too, has good size at 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds and has even worn the green dot on second team defense in Las Vegas’ mandatory minicamp this past month.

That group is joined by Michael Barrett (second year, undrafted, 25 years old, Michigan) and two new undrafted rookies in: Matt Jones (24, Baylor) and Jailin Walker (22, Indiana).

Love how Cody Lindenberg takes command of the defense pre-snap, also a well-timed blitz here to make the tackle near the LOS #Raiders pic.twitter.com/Y2jkHtIKLL

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) May 13, 2025​

Long-Term Projection​

Pratt, Roberts, White and the rest of the linebackers on one-year pacts can rise to the occasion and earn a nifty pay day next offseason. Said players could also re-up with the Raiders on a contract extension.

But the prove-it-type deals are indicative of the roster building general manager John Spytek and general manager Pete Carroll are engaging in. Let’s see what we got and determine needs as the season progresses and next offseason (free agency and draft).

There’s also a chance the younger linebackers like Gainer, Lindenberg, or Walker step up to stake their claim as roster-worthy types that either contribute on defense or provide ample snaps on special teams that older veterans tend to steer away from.

But that’s a ton of could and should above, however.

And, overall, pass coverage remains a concern amongst the entire group of linebackers.

Let’s see if the Raiders can shore that up as the offseason progresses.

Extra Points: Going back to the 2000 draft, the Silver & Black here’s the list of linebackers selected. Take note that the team tends to use middle to late round picks on the position group over this particular course of time:

• Napoleon Harris, 23rd overall, 2002
• Cody Spencer, 182nd overall, 2004
• Kirk Morrison, 78th overall, 2005
• Thomas Howard, 38th overall, 2006
• Darnell Bing, 101th overall, 2006
• Rolando McClain, 8th overall, 2010
• Travis Goethel, 190th overall, 2010
• Miles Burris, 129th overall, 2012
• Nathan Stupar, 230th overall, 2012
• Sio Moore, 66th overall, 2013
• Khalil Mack, 5th overall, 2014* (edge rusher)
• Ben Heeney, 140th overall, 2015
• Neiron Ball, 161th overall, 2015
• Max Valles, 179th overall, 2015* (edge rusher)
• Cory James, 194th overall, 2016
• Marquel Lee, 168th overall, 2017
• Azeem Victor, 216th overall, 2018
• Divine Deablo, 80th overall, 2021
• Amari Burney, 203rd overall, 2023
• Tommy Eichenberg, 148th overall, 2024
• Cody Lindenberg, 222nd overall, 2025

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/2/24456479/raiders-2025-germaine-pratt-linebacker

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Free agents who make sense for the Las Vegas Raiders

Safety Justin Simmons, right, celebrates his fourth-quarter interception against the Las Vegas Raiders. Simmons played for the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 and is an unrestricted free agent. | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Veterans like Justin Simmons, Mike Hilton, Quinton Jefferson can fill needs, bolster Silver & Black defense

We’ve rounded the corner past June we’re about three weeks out from the kickoff to Las Vegas Raiders training camp.

It’s an integral offseason in the augural year with general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll at the helm and when rookies kick off camp July 17, the hard work and grind the Silver & Black are engaging in with eyes of competing and not floundering in 2025 recommences.

The veterans follow their neophyte counterparts on July 22 and we’ll find out plenty about this rendition of the Raiders. Pads will come on and the competition should begin to produce expected starters. And when Carroll and his Raiders meet the Seattle Seahawks (his former team) on August 7 to kick off preseason play, we’ll learn even more.

As NFL teams embark on their respective training camps, rosters sit at 90. According to both Over The Cap and Spotrac, Las Vegas has about $31.2-plus or $31.8-plus million in cap space available. And with that in mind, let’s take a look at available free agents that make sense for the Raiders.

How is Justin Simmons still a free agent???#NFLTwitter pic.twitter.com/GrdlwUCRJl

— Locker (@PlayLockerLive) July 21, 2024​

Justin Simmons, Safety​

I’m surprised Simmons remains on the open market as the Boston College product is an impact defensive back since his arrival to the NFL as the Denver Broncos’ third-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

He’s older at 31 but is a 6-foot-2 and 202-pound safety who remained an effective safety and takeaway artist for the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 (62 total tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass deflections). Pro Football Reference charted Simmons as allowing 22 receptions on 37 targets for 229 yards and three touchdowns. The 59.5 percent completion rate he allowed when quarterbacks targeted him is impressive.

Simmons has the size, awareness, instincts, and capability to be a thief on the Raiders back end and would be a better option in three-safety alignments alongside Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola-Mao than Lonnie Johnson Jr. (who is of similar size, but two years younger).

That all said, with the Pittsburgh Steelers trading safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to acquire cornerback Jalen Ramsey from the Miami Dolphins, there’s another AFC squad who needs a safety.

Mike Hilton, Cornerback​

I’m pretty sure everyone has written about Hilton at this point.

Yet, Las Vegas’ depth at the slot/nickel cornerback spot is less than ideal and despite being 31 and “only” 5-foot-9 and 184 pounds, the Mississippi product plays much bigger than his size and is a fierce defender.

Hilton’s 24 total tackles for loss the last two seasons (12 in 2023 and 2024) showcase the cornerback’s ability to mix it up and get dirty where many others simply make “business decisions”.

Hilton isn’t a volume interception machine (one in 2024, two in 2023, one in 2022 as examples) but holds up well in coverage and he’s accustomed to be activated on the blitz — something Graham likes to do with his defensive backs both against the run and pass.

Never let your guard down when Quinton Jefferson is around pic.twitter.com/8T1t16ysoV

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) January 10, 2022​

Quinton Jefferson, Defensive Tackle​

Now here’s a defender that’s no stranger to either Carroll or the Raiders.

While the defensive tackle position has intriguing young pieces along with veteran leadership, the absence of Christian Wilkins looms large and Adam Bulter could use another savvy vet in the trenches. While the 32-year-old Jefferson hasn’t been a multi-game starter over his nine-year career, he did play in and start 17 games for the Raiders back in 2021 and racked up 47 total tackles, 5.5 sacks, and five tackles for loss.

As a rotational pass rushing-type tackle, Jefferson still has the juice to get in the backfield and brings decent size and movement at 6-foot-4 and 290 pounds. Jefferson is coming off a 2024 campaign where he finished with 14 total tackles and two sacks. But he did have a solid 2023 season with the New York Jets (34 total tackles, career high six sacks, and four tackles for loss).

Keenan Allen, Wide Receiver​

Do the Raiders really need a veteran possession receiver who turned 33 not to long ago?

With Jakobi Meyers as the only established wideout on Las Vegas roster, Allen can come in and compete for the WR1 role from the jump. His 2024 campaign may have been light (70 catches for 744 yards in 15 games (15 starts)), Allen still hauled in seven touchdowns for the Chicago Bears last year.

The connection to the Raiders is present as wide receivers coach Chris Beatty was Allen’s position coach with the Los Angels Chargers (2021-23) and then the Bears this past season. With his precise route running, Allen can be an ample and productive target for quarterback Geno Smith in Las Vegas.

Neville Hewitt has become one of the best special teams players in the NFL.

Hewitt knew he had to change his mindset if he wanted to remain in the NFL.

️@Neville_Hewitt: "Every business, you gotta have a niche. You gotta be good at something."

pic.twitter.com/74RK88JF9o

— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelV) December 1, 2024​

Neville Hewitt, Linebacker​

A career special teamer who shines when given the opportunity on defense, Neville would be another patchwork-type defender the second level of Las Vegas defense. But the 32-year-old Marshall product brings something other Raiders linebackers don’t: Pass coverage chops.

The 6-foot-2 and 234-pound linebacker is a nuisance when dropping back in coverage and, last year with the Houston Texans, Neville was targeted 14 times allowing nine completions for 68 yards and one touchdown. The lone season where he was an every-down linebacker in 2020 with the New York Jets, Neville amassed 134 total tackles, two sacks, and four pass deflections.

He may not be an every-down defender anymore, but Neville would be a nice add as a rotational/situational cover linebacker.

Dalton Risner, Guard​

The Raiders have a mauler at center in second-year pivot Jackson Powers-Johnson, so why not add another one to the mix right next to him?

Risner is a well-built 6-foot-5 and 312 interior lineman who played primarily at left guard since being taken in the second round of the 2019 draft by the Denver Broncos. He played for the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 and 2024 mixing in at both left and right guard spots during his two seasons there.

Las Vegas is having an open competition at the left guard spot and adding Risner — a blocker with a mean streak — into the fight with Dylan Parham, Jordan Meredith, and Thayer Munford Jr. will only ensure the Raiders find the best option on the left side. Shoot, Risner could potentially give Alex Cappa a run for his money on the right side.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/3/24456451/raiders-2025-justin-simmons-free-agents

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Silver Minings: How fourth quarter changed things

Ashton Jeanty | Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Raiders were on pace for top pick

That’s why they play a full four quarters, I suppose.

NFL draft status can be fleeting. After all, the Las Vegas Raiders looked like they were primed to get the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft until they won’t back-to-back Week 16 and 17 games against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the New Orleans Saints to tumble away from the top pick.

Their fourth-quarter play also played a role. Recently NFL analyst Warren Sharp looked at what the 2024 team records for each team would be if games ended after third third quarter. In that scenario, the Raiders would have had the No. 1 overall pick with a 2-15 mark. Here is the full list:

2024 record if games ended after the 3rd qtr:

14-3 - Detroit Lions
12-3-2 - Los Angeles Chargers
12-4-1 - Buffalo Bills
12-5 - Houston Texans
12-5 - Philadelphia Eagles
12-5 - Washington Commanders
11-5-1 - Denver Broncos
11-5-1 - Minnesota Vikings
10-5-2 -…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) June 18, 2025​

So, things changed dramatically for the Raiders who ended up with the No. 6 overall pick and running back Ashton Jeanty.

That’s why they play the full games.

In other Raiders news:

• WR pre: The Raiders’ website previews their wide receiver group.
• One question: The Athletic has a lingering question for every NFL team.
• Hometown love: Las Vegas native and Raiders defensive tackle Jonah Laulu gives back to the community.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/4/24451518/raiders-news-fourth-quarter-changed-record

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Brown, Rice or Porter for WR1 on 2000s All-Quarter Century Team?

Jerry Rice, Tim Brown | Photo by Bob Falcetti/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Coincidentally, all three wideouts were on the same team for a few years

Despite the last 25 years being a dark period for the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders, the franchise has had several quality wide receivers during that timeframe.

In addition to Tim Brown, Jerry Rice and Jerry Porter, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree and Hunter Renfrow all had strong cases to be listed as nominees for the No. 1 wide receiver on the Raiders’ 2000s All-Quarter Century Team. However, it’s hard to go against three wideouts who rank in the top 15 for the most receiving yards in franchise history, despite all three playing on the same team from 2001 to 2003.

For clarity, we’ll be doing two wide receiver polls, where the two losers will here be included in the No. 2 wide receiver poll. However, since we included a fullback, there will only be two wide receiver spots to keep the offense to 11 players. Also, there might be a couple of positions between the receiver polls to allow enough time to collect votes.

Tim Brown​

James D. Smith-Imagn Images
Tim Brown

Raiders Stats (2000-2003): 300 catches, 3,790 yards, 24 TDs (4 seasons, 64 games)

Accolades (2000-2003): Pro Bowl (2001)

For clarity, Brown is the franchise leader in every major statistical category among Raiders receivers, racking up 1,070 catches, 14,734 yards and 99 touchdowns during his 16 seasons. However, we’re focusing on what each player has done in the last quarter century. But even if we just took his production since 2000, he’d rank sixth in receptions, ninth in yards and tied for 15th in touchdowns all-time. Mr. Raider was also a key fixture in Oakland’s offense during the team’s three consecutive playoff runs from 2000 to 2002.

Jerry Rice​

Photo by David Madison/Getty Images
Jerry Rice

Raiders Stats: 243 catches, 3,286 yards, 18 TDs (4 seasons, 54 games)

Accolades: Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro (2002)

While he gained more notoriety for his work across the Bay, Rice’s tenure with the Raiders in the early 2000s was also impressive. At 39 and 40 years old, he still managed to have consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns and ranks 14th in franchise history for receiving yards despite playing just three and a half seasons with the club. The G.O.A.T. receiver also had postseason success in Oakland, adding another 27 catches, 434 yards and three touchdowns in five playoff games to his silver and black stat line.

Jerry Porter​

Photo by Robert B. Stanton/NFLPhotoLibrary
Jerry Porter

Raiders Stats: 284 catches, 3,939 yards, 30 TDs (8 seasons, 105 games)

Accolades: none

The 2000 second-round pick spent the majority of his first few seasons in the NFL as the third receiver behind the two wideouts above, leading to a slow start to begin his career. But Porter proved to be an excellent third wideout and complement to the Hall of Famers in 2002, racking up nearly 700 yards and nine touchdowns. He also led the league with 237 yards and three touchdowns during the postseason that year. Then, when Brown and Rice left, Porter became the top target and flirted with 1,000-yard campaigns in ‘04 and ‘05, notching 998 and 942 yards, respectively.

---

So, which wide receiver are you going with for the WR1 spot on the Raiders’ 2000s All-Quarter Century Team?

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

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...de-receiver-tim-brown-jerry-porter-jerry-rice

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Is 1983 or 1976 the greatest Raiders team of all time?

Manny Rubio-Imagn Images

Vote below on who is the greatest Raiders team of all time

The Las Vegas Raiders have a rich history that helped their build a loyal fan base. The rise of the team started in 1967 and led to three Super Bowls in the next 17 seasons. Although the team hasn’t had much success recently, its mystique has remained.

During TDL Friday Night Live, a fan vote contest was held to determine the greatest Raiders team of all time. It is now down to the final two, who were both Super Bowl Champions. 1976 was the Raiders' first championship after years of failing to topple the Pittsburgh Steelers. 1983 was the year the Raiders celebrated their second season in Los Angeles with a championship. The legendary run by Marcus Allen is one of the greatest plays in NFL history.

Please vote in the poll below to determine which is the greatest Raiders team of all time. Is it 1983 or 1976? Should another team be in the running? The results will be announced on Friday Night Live tomorrow.

Sign up and go to the comments section.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/5/24456666/greatest-raiders-team-all-time

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

What’s the long-term projection at quarterback?

Geno Smith, front center, is the Las Vegas Raiders starting quarterback while Aidan O’Connell, left, is slated to be the backup. For the short term, the Raiders are set. But what about the long-term future? | Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Aidan O’Connell under contract for next two seasons; rookie Cam Miller is a developmental pick for Las Vegas

With Geno Smith on board, the Las Vegas Raiders are set for the short term at the all-important quarterback position.

The 34-year-old reunites with head coach Pete Carroll in the desert after the Silver & Black sent a 2025 third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks back in early March. A month later, Las Vegas inked Smith to a two-year, $75 million contract extension that ties the signal caller to the franchise through the 2027 season.

And after four season together (2020-23), both the bond and familiarity between the Raiders’ new QB1 and head honcho are as strong as ever.

Thus, Smith is the clear-cut starter for Carroll’s Raiders — a coach who inked a three-year pact with the team with an option for a fourth year. Were Smith and Carroll to ride through their current deals, after three seasons, the quarterback will be nearly 37 and the coach nearly 76.

By The Numbers
Geno Smith, Quarterback

• 2024: 17 games (17 starts), 407 of 578 (70.4 percent completion rate), 4,320 yards, 21 touchdowns, 15 interceptions, 50 sacks absorbed, 9 fumbles; 53 carries, 272 yards, 2 touchdowns
• Career: (2013-2024) 94 games (83 starts), 1,721 of 2,655 (64.8 percent completion rate), 19,143 yards, 105 touchdowns, 72 interceptions, 222 sacks absorbed, 44 fumbles; 316 carries, 1,494 yards, 12 touchdowns

Completion Percentage on Deep Passes [Since 2022]
+ min. 80 deep pass attempts

1. Tua Tagovailoa (67.6%)
t2. Geno Smith (65.4%)
t2. Brock Purdy (65.4%)
4. Joe Burrow (64.7%)
...
Dead Last / 28. Patrick Mahomes (49.4%) pic.twitter.com/DUqIva3eDx

— Fantasy Points Data (@FantasyPtsData) July 1, 2025​

But what about the long-term projection of the vital position?

That’s where it gets interesting.

The Room​

The current makeup of Las Vegas quarterback room sees Smith atop the depth chart as the unquestioned starting quarterback this coming season. Aidan O’Connell, who enters his third season with the team after being drafted in the fourth round (135th overall) in the 2023 NFL Draft, is slated to be the backup while undrafted free agent Carter Bradley and 2025 sixth-round pick (215th overall) Cam Miller are set to duke it out for QB3/emergency signal caller role.

O’Connell turns 27 on September 1 while Bradley is 25 and Miller recently turned 24. So it’s a relatively young quarterback room in Las Vegas and only Smith and O’Connell have experienced the rigors of the NFL games. Smith has 94 total games under his belt (83 starts and a 40-43-40 win-loss record as a signal caller) in 11 seasons, while O’Connell has 20 career games on his resume (17 starts, and a 7-10-0 win-loss mark) in two seasons.

Like many other incumbent Raiders, O’Connell is in dire need of stability in the coaching staff and front office. He’s had a new head coach and play caller in his first two seasons in the NFL and being a beneficiary of a sustained regime can do him and other Raiders good.

Now returning for his third stint as a #Raiders coach, Greg Olson speaks on what Aidan O’Connell brings to the QB room. pic.twitter.com/qNFPXDetgu

— Heidi Fang (@HeidiFang) May 28, 2025​

Contract-wise, Bradley has the shortest pact as he’s slated to become an exclusive-rights free agent at the end of this coming season. O’Connell is under contract for two more years under his rookie deal and hits unrestricted free agency in 2027.

We’ve discussed Smith above — he hits unrestricted free agency in 2028 if he and the Raiders see his three-year contract through. Miller is the one with the longest contract ties as his four-year rookie contract has him hitting unrestricted free agency in 2029.

Going back to Smith, there’s a potential out for Las Vegas after the 2026 season as the quarterback carries no dead money on his $39.5 million cap number for the 2027 season. Thus the Raiders could axe him and receive no dead money while saving $39.5 million.

Inherent Differences​

While Smith and O’Connell are of similar height — both are 6-foot-3 — the former is exponentially more mobile than the latter. While he isn’t a big-time scrambling threat, Smith’s ability to escape and evade in the pocket and make defenses pay for not respecting his mobility were ever-present as a starter in Seattle.

O’Connell, meanwhile, isn’t a sloth as he can move in the pocket, but he’s not the type to gallop 34-yards for a touchdown against a stout defense like Smith did. Hence why I dubbed O’Connell Cement Shoes.

Where the two quarterbacks are similar, however, is quick release and accuracy. According to Pro Football Reference, Smith is an on-target thrower with an 81.8 percentage in 2024 and a 78.5 percent mark over the last six seasons. O’Connell, meanwhile, was charted with a 72.8 and 71.2 percent on-target mark the past two years.

It’s difficult to discern Bradley’s capabilities as he hasn’t seen action against first-team NFL defenses being a practice squad mainstay for the majority of his rookie season in 2024. The same can be said about Miller.

Both are long-term developmental types with Bradley being the taller one at 6-foot-3 and 216 pounds while Miller stands 6-foot-1 and 212 pounds.

Knock Miller coming from FCS North Dakota State all you want, yet it’s difficult to ignore he was productive four-year starter and winner (45-11 record) that led the Bison to two NCAA Division I FCS national championships and a 15-3 playoff record.

#Raiders part owner, former 6th round pick Tom Brady endorsed 6th round QB Cam Miller.

Here's the rookie getting in work at OTAs learning from Geno Smith, Aidan O'Connell, and Carter Bradley. Miller led North Dakota State to two FCS national championships. @KTNV pic.twitter.com/MxPbf6gu0P

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) May 27, 2025​

Miller is quick through is progressions and releasing the ball and he’s able to feather throws at all three levels for accuracy and touch. He also brings mobility as a scrambler to make defenses pay for not respecting that part of his game.

But like Bradley, Miller doesn’t have the big-time arm talent that brings both velocity and power to go deep or thread the needle consistently.

Future State​

Unless there’s significant drop off or injury, expect Smith to be the clear-cut starter the next two season and a third highly likely. That 39.5 million camp number in 2027 isn’t exorbitant and his $26.6 million figure in 2026 doesn’t preclude Las Vegas from either drafting another signal caller or inking a free-agent option.

O’Connell appears destined to be a reliable backup as QB2. Unless he can legitimately push Smith, he either re-ups with the Raiders when his contract is up or signs with another team. Bradley just may be another practice squad candidate while Miller earns the QB3 role based on his collegiate exploits and upside as a late-round pick in the most recent draft.

Horizon-wise, the Raiders are in good fiscal shape as the team is likely going to be in the Top 5 in cap space available next offseason and in the Top 10 in 2027.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/6/24460690/raiders-2025-offense-geno-smith-quarterback

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

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

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

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

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

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

Previous games​

Saturday, July 5, 2025
Friday, July 4, 2025
Thursday, July 3, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
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Silver and Black Pride in-5 instructions​

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

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

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/6/24462429/sb-nation-raiders-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Does Crosby still reign supreme over AFC West EDGEs?

Maxx Crosby | Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Edge rushers are on the rise in the division, but have they done enough to unseat Crosby?

We’re flipping sides of the ball and moving onto the defense in Silver and Black Pride’s AFC West position rankings, focusing on the edge defenders in the division. This is an interesting position group, as several pass-rushers emerged last season to challenge Las Vegas Raiders’ star Maxx Crosby for the top spot.

For example, the Denver Broncos had two edge rushers finish with double-digit sacks and in the top 15 for the metric, with Nik Bonitto getting to the quarterback 13.5 times (third-most) and Jonathon Cooper notching 10.5 sacks (tied for 12th). But was that enough to unseat Crosby?

1. Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders​

2024 Stats: 45 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, 17 TFLs

While Cooper and Bonitto made a strong push to dethrone Crosby, Madd Maxx still reigns supreme over the rest of the AFC West edge defenders. Despite playing in five fewer games than those two, he nearly matched them in pressures, logging 54 while Cooper had 61 and Bonitto racked up 57, according to Pro Football Focus. Also, Crosby didn’t have nearly the same supporting cast as the Broncos’ duo did last year to take some of the attention away from him. That’s in addition to the four-time Pro Bowler being the superior run defender and having the better overall resume.

2. Jonathon Cooper, Denver Broncos​

2024: 58 total tackles, 10.5 sacks, 11 TFLs

The 2021 seventh-round pick has certainly exceeded expectations in the Mile High City. He’s produced 19 sacks and 116 pressures (via PFF) over the last two years to become one of the NFL’s up-and-coming pass rushers in the league. On top of that, Cooper showed growth as a run defender in 2024, earning a 71.3 PFF run defense grade and tying for the seventh-most defensive stops (24) among edges during the regular season. That’s how he earned a four-year, $54 million contract extension in November, resulting in quite the pay bump from about $900k per year to $13.5 million.

3. Nik Bonitto, Broncos​

Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images
Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper

2024 Stats: 48 total tackles, 13.5 sacks, 16 TFL

Similar to his running mate, Bonitto has quietly been climbing up the ranks among pass-rushers in the league over the last two years. He’s logged 21.5 sacks and 104 pressures during that timeframe, culminating in 2024 Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro bids. He also managed to score two touchdowns last year: a 71-yard pick-six and a 50-yard fumble recovery. The only reason the 2022 second-rounder is behind his teammate is that he’s recorded a PFF run defense grade of 60 or below in each of his three seasons. That said, a lucrative contract extension is still likely coming for Bonitto.

4. Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers​

2024 Stats: 39 total tackles, 6 sacks, 6 TFLs

If this list were based on career accomplishments, the nine-time Pro Bowler and 2016 Defensive Player of the Year would easily be at the top. But the 34-year-old is starting to slow down a bit, recording the fewest sacks since his rookie season and the least amount of pressures (49) since the 2022 campaign, when he participated in just seven games. Don’t get it twisted, though, Mack can still play and is still a high-level run defender. He ranked second among edges league-wide with an 88.0 PFF run defense grade last year. Whether he hangs ‘em up this offseason or in the next few years, the Raiders’ 2014 first-round pick will likely be enshrined in Canton one day.

5. George Karlaftis, Kansas City Chiefs​

2024 Stats: 35 total tackles, 8 sacks, 9 TFLs

While defensive tackle Chris Jones gets most of the recognition and attention on Kansas City’s defensive line, Karlaftis has put up some noteworthy numbers over the last three years. His 24.5 sacks since entering the NFL in 2022 are enough to earn a spot in the top 25 across the league during that timeframe, via StatMuse, and he’s cracked 60 pressures in back-to-back regular seasons, per PFF. Also, the Purdue product’s 61 pressures during the 2024 regular season led AFC West edge rushers and were tied for 13th at the position league-wide. The Chiefs picked up Karlaftis’ fifth-year option, so he’s still a year away from receiving a contract extension, but a big payday should be coming.

Honorable Mentions: Tuli Tuipulotu (LAC), Malcolm Koonce (LV), Bud Dupree (LAC), Jonah Elliss (DEN)

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ers-roster-afc-west-rankings-edge-maxx-crosby

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Can Raiders dunk Maxx Crosby’s NBA comparison?

The Las Vegas Raiders’ Maxx Crosby, right, pointed to the NBA Oklahoma Thunder turnaround from worst to best as a potential blueprint for the Silver & Black. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Elite edge rusher knows there’s lots of work to do but Las Vegas has an experienced head coach in Pete Carroll to lead the way

Worst-to-first for the Silver & Black?

Now, if you chuckled in disbelief with a hint of sarcasm, you can easily be forgiven. After all, the Las Vegas Raiders are the antithesis of consistent winner. But if you got goose bumps and have unwavering belief the Las Vegas Raiders can shed the label of perennial loser, good on you.

Because that’s the line of thinking the Silver & Black’s premier player Maxx Crosby has.

“Anytime you go out there, you want to be in a position to win,” Crosby said two weeks ago at the annual Sack Summit, per The Athletic’s Tashan Reed. “Individual success and things like that are awesome, but it’s not why you play the game. You play to win. We just saw it in the NBA: OKC, just a couple years ago, was one of the worst teams in the league. But they had a lot of young guys, they trusted the process, they developed and now they’re the world champions.

“We’re trying to win. I want to win so badly. I put everything into it. I want everybody else to think like that. And that’s been my goal, just bringing as many guys along as I possibly can.”

Period. pic.twitter.com/wYqTGc9i3P

— Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) June 30, 2025​

By The Numbers
Maxx Crosby, Defensive End

• 2024: 12 games (12 starts), 45 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, 20 quarterback hits, five pass deflections
• Career: 2019-24, 95 games (89 starts), 366 total tackles, 105 tackles for loss, 59.5 sacks, 144 quarterback hits, 23 pass deflections, 9 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries

Since entering the league as a fourth-round pick (106th overall) in the 2019 NFL Draft, the best mark the Raiders have sported in Crosby’s six seasons is the 10-7 overall finish in 2021 that saw the team fall to the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round of the playoffs.

Heading into Year 7 with yet another regime calling the shots, the belief the 6-foot-5 and 255-pound defensive end continues to put out in the universe is commendable. Crosby turns 28 on August 22 and is coming off a 2024 campaign that saw him play the least amount of games in his career (12 with 12 starts).

But, despite all that, the new Silver & Black shot callers — general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll — made sure the entire NFL world knew how valuable Crosby is the the franchise as the Raiders handed the pass rusher a rich three-year, $106.5 million contract extension that gave the Eastern Michigan product $91.5 million guaranteed.

Crosby and the Raiders are now tied at the hip through the 2029 season (if the contract sees it’s entire length without another extension) and the edge rusher hits unrestricted free agency at age 33 in 2030.

“It’s an honor, obviously, having the Raiders with a new staff and new regime come in and show me that type of respect,” Crosby said of his three-year extension. “It means the world. Like Spytek said, it’s not about what I’ve done, it’s about what I’m about to do. … And we’ve got a lot of work to do.”

Most people think competition is about beating someone else.

It’s not.

Pete Carroll’s definition is one of the best I’ve ever heard and it’ll change how you think about competing forever pic.twitter.com/GvRT3q6a4c

— Coach AJ Mental Fitness (@coachajkings) June 30, 2025​

There’s reason for optimism that backs Crosby’s sentiments, however.

In come Spytek and, more importantly, Carroll to lead the way. The head honcho replaces a very inexperienced (but plenty of machismo and sound bites) coach Antonio Pierce. He may be 73 years old, but Carroll still shows signs of uncanny energy and was frequently seen spry and moving around like a much younger coach during Raiders OTAs and mandatory minicamp last month.

That energy has transitioned well to the players and many speak of the game being fun again under the guidance of Carroll.

The GM and head coach combo also infused the roster with intriguing young talents in the draft but the biggest get — that will likely have the largest impact on Las Vegas’ win-loss record — was trading for quarterback Geno Smith. It’s a signal caller that has unwavering belief in Carroll, a coach who helped resurrect a flatlined career. If there was one thing Pierce lacked during his reign as Raiders head man, it was quarterback.

Carroll has his.

"He helped me change the way I spoke to myself."

Geno Smith's relationship with Pete Carroll is special.@Raiders (via @NFLFilms)pic.twitter.com/YUy3vSOFvn

— NFL (@NFL) March 8, 2025​

And now we’ll get to see if the Carroll-Smith combination can revive a Raiders offense that was the often the ultimate “this isn’t how you run an NFL offense” teach tape in 2024. In comes Chip Kelly — a failed NFL head man but renowned offensive play caller — as offensive coordinator providing more optimism that Las Vegas found the right man to deliver an explosive, if not, efficient offense.

Yet, for all the optimism, tempered expectations is equally as proper. There was once another bold head coach who engineered excitement and brought back boisterous bravado. I mean, come on, who could forget the all-time speech Jon Gruden dropped on Hard Knocks.

It’s just too bad, the Silver & Black nightmare continued — even in Chucky 2.0.

We’ll find out soon enough if the Raiders can dunk Crosby’s NBA comparison. The Thunder did trust the process and climbed atop the league mountain. NFL parity suggest the Raiders can do the same. But like Crosby noted, there’s a lot of hard work that needs to be done. Are we in for a 1998 St. Louis Rams’ turnaround?

That was the “Greatest Show on Turf” offense led by Kurt Warner as the Rams’ won Super Bowl XXXIV.

That’d be quite nice, wouldn’t it?

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/7/24460695/raiders-2025-preview-maxx-crosby

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Who are highest paid Raiders in 2025?

With a cap hit of $18.137 million in 2025, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is the third-most expensive Las Vegas Raider. He’s joined by quarterback Geno Smith and defensive end Maxx Crosby as the top 3 highest-paid Raiders. | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The Raiders have some top-end money makers on roster

The Las Vegas Raiders were most certainly not hurting for cap space this offseason.

The team was projected to have the second-most cap space at onset of 2025 at about $92.5 million and the team remains in prime shape with about $31.84-plus million in cap room still available.

The combo of general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll spent some solid coin to retain their own and provide some security for a newly gained offensive centerpiece. But overall, the new Raiders regime isn’t in dire financial straits.

Thus, let’s look at highest earns in Silver & Black. We’ll take a look at the 2025 active roster cap numbers as per Spotrac below and provide some insight on the Top 5 earners.

The Top-Paid Raiders​

Geno Smith, Quarterback​

Cap Hit: $40 Million​

The Silver & Black’s starting quarterback is tied for sixth in the league in terms of cap hit (with the Atlanta Falcons’ Kirk Cousins). This is a byproduct of a two-year, $75 million contract extension Las Vegas gave Smith after trading for the signal caller with the Seattle Seahawks.

Smith was on the final stanza of a three-year, $75 million extension he signed with Seattle back in 2023 and he and the Raiders decided to provide a contract that mirrors the head coach who helped revive his NFL career (Carroll inked a pact with Las Vegas for three years with an option for Year 4).

In terms of overall contract value, Smith’s deal is 19th amongst his fellow quarterbacks.

Geno Smith's 2 year, $75M ($37.5M APY) extension with the #Raiders makes him the 17th highest average paid QB in football.

A reported $66.5M guaranteed ranks 17th.

— Spotrac (@spotrac) April 3, 2025​

Maxx Crosby, Defensive End​

Cap Hit: $38.1530-plus Million​

The Raiders’ premier pass rusher sits atop the 2025 cap hit with an exact $38,153,250 number. That’s more than $10 million that the Chicago Bears’ Montez Sweat garners at $25,085,494 — who is second in Spotrac’s cap hit list.

Proving they weren’t just saying flattering things about Crosby to blow smoke, the duo of Spytek and Carroll inked Crosby to a three-year, $106.5 million contract extension. The new coin is well earned, of course, as Crosby is often the lone consistent pass rusher that wears a Raiders jersey.

In terms of overall contract value, Crosby’s new pact slots him at fourth overall behind the New York Giants’ Brian Burns. The San Francisco 49ers’ Nick Bosa is king of the defensive end total value at $170 million.

Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle​

Cap Hit: $18.137 Million​

Las Vegas’ top interior defensive lineman ranks 10th in 2025 behind the Carolina Panthers’ Derrick Brown ($18.74 million). The top money maker at the defensive tackle position group is the Indianapolis Cots’ DeForest Buckner ($26.6 million) followed by the Washington Commanders’ Daron Payne ($26.17 million).

A healthy and 100-percent ready-to-play Wilkins would be a tremendous boon for Las Vegas’ defense, however, the outlook remains murky. While there’s ample time to get ready for the regular season, Wilkins will need the snaps to reacclimate and build football endurance.

Contract value-wise, Wilkins deal remains the second richest at the defensive tackle spot at $110 million. He trails the Kansas City Chiefs’ Chris Jones ($158.75 million).

Raiders DT Christian Wilkins, who is still recovering from a Jones fracture that ended his 2024 season in October, seen wearing a left foot boot last weekhttps://t.co/PdZFJVlLgL pic.twitter.com/BVbJjWROcU

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) June 24, 2025​

Kolton Miller, Left Tackle​

Cap Hit: $15.680-plus Million​

Ranking seventh in Spotrac’s blindside protector list with a respectable $15,680,998 cap hit, Miller seeks long-term security with a contract extension. The top earner at left tackle in 2025 is the Detroit Lions’ Taylor Decker ($23.098 million) followed by the Washington Commanders’ Laremy Tunsil ($21.35 million).

Being on the final stanza of a contract extension he signed back in 2021, Miller is slated to hit unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career since arriving as the 15th overall pick in the 2018 draft.

Miller’s current deal gives him the 13th-ranked contract ($54 million) at the position group. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Tristan Wirfs holds the richest overall contract at left tackle with a hefty $140.6 million pact.

Jakobi Meyers, Wide Receiver​

Cap Hit: $14.962-plus Million​

The lowest ranking Raider in terms of overall cap hit at their respective position group, Meyers’ $14,962,334 figure puts him No. 13 in the 2025. The top earner at wide receiver may surprise some: The Tennessee Titans’ Calvin Ridley who has a cool $28 million cap number. He’s followed by the Miami Dolphins’ Tyreek Hill ($27,698,750) and the Washington Commanders’ Terry McLaurin ($25.5 million).

Like Miller, Meyers has expressed interest in remaining a Raider beyond the final year of their current deal.

Meyers signed three-year, $33 million pact with the Raiders back in 2023 and is slated to hit unrestricted free agency next offseason. His current contract ranks 32nd at the position group in contract value. The Cincinnati Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase is king of the mountain with a $161 million contract value.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/7/8/24460703/raiders-2025-christian-wilkins-preview

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Does Wilkins’ injury impact standing among AFC West DTs?

Adam Butler, Christian Wilkins | Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

How far does the 2024 free-agent signing slide?

Defensive tackle is an interesting position for the Las Vegas Raiders heading into the 2025 season. When healthy, Christian Wilkins is one of the best interior defenders in the AFC West and the entire NFL, for that matter. However, Wilkins’ injury casts some doubt on his standing, while also giving Adam Butler a chance to rise up the ranks this fall.

So, where do Wilkins and Butler stand in Silver and Black Pride’s preseason AFC West defensive tackle rankings?

1. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs​

2024 Stats: 37 tackles, 5 sacks, 9 TFLs

The six-time All-Pro selection will have a gold jacket hanging in his closet one day and is still playing at a high level. While Jones posted his lowest sack total since his rookie season last year, he still ranked second among defensive tackles with 74 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. That kept his streak going of three consecutive seasons with more than 70 pressures. The 31-year-old might be at the tail end of his career, but he still reigns supreme as the top defensive tackle in the division and one of the best in the league.

2. Zach Allen, Denver Broncos​

2024 Stats: 61 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 15 TFLs

Allen hasn’t gotten much recognition; last year was his first All-Pro selection (second-team), and he still hasn’t been named to a Pro Bowl roster, but he’s been a quality defensive tackle for several years. Per PFF, the six-year veteran has ranked tied for 20th (35) in pressures among the NFL’s interior defenders, eighth (60) and first (75) over the last three seasons, respectively. He’s also a solid run defender, finishing in the top 10 for ‘defensive stops’ during his two campaigns in Denver.

3. Christian Wilkins, Las Vegas Raiders​

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Getty Images
Christian Wilkins

2024 Stats: 17 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 TFL

As referenced above, Wilkins’ broken foot threatens his availability for the upcoming season, which means he could slide further down this list at the end of the year. The injury limited him to just five games (four and a half, really) in 2024 and has already caused him to drop one spot in the division rankings. However, when healthy, Wilkins is a great run defender who still deserves recognition. For example, he ranked tied for eighth among defensive tackles with seven defensive stops against the run and was second with an 80.2 PFF run defense grade before suffering the foot injury last season. On top of that, the free-agent signing had a career year as a pass-rusher in 2023, collecting nine sacks and 58 pressures. If he can return to form this fall, he can be a top 10 player at his position in the entire league.

4. John Franklin-Myers, Denver Broncos​

2024 Stats: 40 tackles, 7 sacks, 8 TFLs

The Broncos have a pair of impressive defensive tackles, especially as pass-rushers. Denver was the only team in the NFL to have two interior defenders finish in the top 10 for pressures last season, as Franklin-Meyers was tied for ninth with 53, via PFF. Even more impressively, he was the only player in the top 10 to rush the passer fewer than 400 times (368 pass-rush snaps) and has collected 50 or more pressures in each of the last five seasons. Not bad for the second-best interior pass-rusher on the team.

5. Adam Butler, Las Vegas Raiders​

2024 Stats: 65 tackles, 5 sacks, 8 TFLs

The Raiders needed someone to step up after Wilkins’ injury last season, and Butler answered the call. He started 16 games for the first time in seven seasons and recorded a career high in tackles, nearly double his previous best of 34. The veteran also posted personal bests with 31 pressures (tied for 35th among NFL DTs) and with 32 defensive stops (11th). That’s good enough to earn a spot in the top five AFC West defensive tackle rankings heading into the fall.

Honorable Mentions: D.J. Jones (DEN), Teair Tart (LAC), Mike Pennel (KC)

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...efensive-tackle-christian-wilkins-adam-butler