The new Las Vegas Raiders regime led by general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll was pretty busy this offseason. The team’s roster has undergone significant changes, and Maxx Crosby has also become considerably wealthier. To improve the Raiders, this management team traded for a new quarterback and drafted a generational running back. Despite these numerous additions, there remains room for improvement on the roster.
Both sides of the line of scrimmage currently have weak position groups. The secondary lacks a true middle fielder with the departure of Tre’von Moehrig. Additionally, there is room for significant improvement across the offensive line. The Raiders still have over $31 million in cap space to spend.
Adding Needed Cornerback Talent: Asante Samuel Jr. At the Top
Nate Hobbs leaving was a devastating blow to this defensive core. Besides Crosby, he has been the most consistent player for Las Vegas since 2021. However, the hard-nosed nickel cornerback struggled to stay healthy and did not return to Sin City. There are a couple of players who could replace his role on this roster.
Eric Stokes and Darien Porter joined the cornerback room this offseason. However, neither Eric Stokes nor Darien Porter are considered nickel cornerbacks.
Luckily for the Silver and Black, there is an abundance of free agents on the market. The most obvious name is Asante Samuel Jr. Besides being a long-tenured AFC West member, he is also the best cornerback in free agency.
Regardless of the decision, adding any cornerback would aid this position group. Other options available include Stephon Gilmore, Kendall Fuller, and James Bradberry. If there’s one position that Raider Nation is pleading for, it’s this one.
Making Geno Smith’s Life Easier: Offensive Line and An Extra Weapon
After signing a two-year, $75 million contract, Geno Smith’s success is monumental for the Raiders. Coupled with having a calm pocket, having wide receivers who can create separation can make a quarterback’s job easier. The offensive line is unproven, and the pass catchers lack veteran leadership.
Overall, the trenches could be improved at almost every position. Besides Kolton Miller, every player still has a lot to prove at their designated spot. Jedrick Willis and Tyron Smith are available for the tackle positions. Additionally, the team could insert Brandon Scherff or Shaq Mason at guard.
For the most part, the receiving group in Sin City has lots of potential but is still young. Jakobi Meyers will be the only major contributor not on a rookie contract. D.J. Chark is still an available big target, and Keenan Allen is an available route runner. Some other options include Gabriel Davis and Amari Cooper. Could the team consider pursuing one of these players?
The Middle Field Player: Justin Simmons
Justin Simmons is one of the best free safeties in the NFL. Interceptions come often for the 31-year-old, totaling 32 interceptions since 2016. He has the potential to complete this team’s roster. Jeremy Chinn is a versatile talent that could coincide with Simmons and Isaiah Pola-Mao.
In 2024, Las Vegas finished last in the AFC West with their interception numbers. Simmons could drastically change this statistic and create fear for opposing quarterbacks.
The Raiders have tough decisions to make before this season begins.
