Las Vegas Raiders’ Biggest Roster Concern After First Week of 2025 NFL Free Agency

The Las Vegas Raiders endured a disastrous 2024 season, winning just four games and parting ways with head coach Antonio Pierce after only a year at the helm. However, 2025 brings a fresh start, and there’s already plenty of reason for optimism among Raiders fans.

In a bold move, Las Vegas brought in legendary head coach Pete Carroll on a three-year deal, replacing Pierce. The front office also saw a shakeup, with John Spytek taking over as general manager, while NFL icon and minority owner Tom Brady now has a voice in key decisions. With this powerhouse leadership in place, the Raiders are positioning themselves for long-term success.

A Major Quarterback Upgrade

The Raiders wasted no time making improvements, pulling off a major pre-free agency trade by acquiring quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick.

Smith reunites with Carroll in Las Vegas and is set to take over as the team’s starting quarterback. While he may not be the franchise QB that every fan dreams of, he has proven himself as a reliable starter. Over the past three seasons, Smith has consistently thrown for over 3,600 yards and 20 touchdowns. His 2024 campaign saw him rack up 4,320 yards and 21 touchdowns, despite tossing 15 interceptions.

Compared to the Raiders’ inconsistent quarterback play in 2024, Smith is undoubtedly a significant upgrade. But with the QB position now settled, what’s the next step for Las Vegas to become a real contender in 2025?

Raiders Must Load Up on Offensive Firepower

While the Raiders have been active in free agency, most of their additions have been on the defensive side of the ball. They strengthened their secondary by signing Darnay Holmes and Eric Stokes on one-year deals, while veteran safety Jeremy Chinn joined on a two-year contract. Additionally, Las Vegas retained key defensive players Malcolm Koonce and Adam Butler.

On offense, however, the team has yet to make a major splash. The Raiders added guard Alex Cappa for offensive line depth and signed veteran running back Raheem Mostert to a one-year deal, but neither move significantly alters their offensive outlook.

If the Raiders want to maximize Smith’s potential, they need to surround him with playmakers dynamic weapons who can stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Otherwise, teams will focus all their efforts on neutralizing Brock Bowers and dialing up pressure on Smith, a recipe for disaster.

Luckily, Las Vegas isn’t starting from scratch. Bowers has emerged as the focal point of the offense, and alongside Michael Mayer, the Raiders boast a formidable tight end duo. But beyond them, the team desperately needs reinforcements.

Running Back and Wide Receiver Should Be Draft Priorities

Mostert is a solid rotational back, but he’s currently the best option the Raiders have. Zamir White underwhelmed in 2024, while Sincere McCormick outperformed him. Dylan Laube has yet to make an impact.

The 2025 NFL Draft features an elite running back class, headlined by Ashton Jeanty. Many believe the Raiders could select Jeanty with the sixth overall pick, and given their need at the position, it makes perfect sense. If they pass on Jeanty, they should still target a running back in the middle rounds, as free agency offers few viable alternatives.

The wide receiver situation is equally concerning.

Jakobi Meyers is a strong WR2, but he’s not a true No. 1 option. Behind him, Tre Tucker has promise, but he’s more of a role player than a game-changer. If the Raiders want to build a high-powered offense, they must prioritize drafting a top-tier receiver.

Tetairoa McMillan and Luther Burden III are among the best receiver prospects in the 2025 draft and are projected to be available when the Raiders pick at No. 6. A player like McMillan could make an immediate impact as a rookie and elevate the Raiders’ passing attack. Fans should closely monitor which receivers the team scouts leading up to the draft.

While Las Vegas could add more depth in free agency, finding a legitimate starter at this stage seems unlikely.

Final Thoughts

The Raiders have made strides in reshaping their roster, but their work isn’t done. Geno Smith gives them stability at quarterback, and their defense has improved, but without explosive weapons on offense, their chances of contending remain slim.

To truly take a step forward in 2025, Las Vegas must use the draft to bring in a game-changing wide receiver or running back players who can make an immediate impact and help Smith lead this team to success.

The foundation is there, but now, it’s time for the Raiders to take the next big step.