2024 Season: A Tryout for Camaraderie and Reconstruction
The 2024 season for the Las Vegas Raiders was a tough one, their first and only full campaign under head coach Antonio Pierce. The team finished with a 4-13 record, placing fourth in the AFC West and missing the playoffs for a third consecutive year. Despite winning two of their last three games, the Raiders struggled with consistency, particularly at the quarterback position. Injuries and poor performance led to a rotation between Gardner Minshew II, Aidan O’Connell, and Desmond Ridder. The offensive woes were compounded by the mid-season firing of offensive coordinator Luke Getsy and two other position coaches in November. The team’s late-season surge, while a positive sign, ultimately pushed them out of contention for the No. 1 overall draft pick, a crucial opportunity lost for a franchise with significant needs.
Leadership Transition: Pete Carroll and Geno Smith
The Raiders made a significant move by hiring Pete Carroll as their new head coach, a decision that brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the franchise. Carroll, known for his successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, has a proven track record of building winning teams. His familiarity with veteran quarterback Geno Smith, whom the Raiders traded for, adds a layer of stability to the roster. Smith’s experience and chemistry with Carroll could provide the consistency the Raiders have lacked at the quarterback position. This stability is crucial for the team’s long-term success and could be a significant factor in their ability to compete in the coming seasons.
Defensive Cornerstone: Maxx Crosby
While the Raiders faced numerous challenges on offense, they have a strong foundation on defense with the signing of Maxx Crosby to a record-breaking three-year, $106.5 million extension. Crosby, a dominant pass rusher, is a key asset for the team’s defensive line and will serve as a cornerstone as they rebuild. His presence offers a solid defensive anchor and will be essential in improving the team’s overall defensive performance. The investment in Crosby signals the Raiders’ commitment to building a balanced and competitive team.
2025 NFLPA Report Card
The Raiders received a 4th place ranking in the NFLPA report card, largely due to the positive reception of their new team facility and owner Mark Davis. However, players had some reservations about the efficiency of former head coach Antonio Pierce. With Pete Carroll taking the helm, the team is poised for a more streamlined and effective approach. The report card highlights areas of strength and provides a baseline for the improvements needed to enhance the players’ experience and performance on and off the field.
Key Free Agents and Needs
The Raiders have several important free agents to address this offseason, including Marcus Epps, Ameer Abdullah, Nate Hobbs, Adam Butler, John Jenkins, Robert Spillane, Divine Deablo, and Tre’von Moehrig. Among these, Moehrig, a standout safety, is a priority to retain. His strong performance and leadership on defense make him a valuable asset. The team also has significant needs at running back, wide receiver, and offensive line. Addressing these needs through free agency and the draft will be crucial for the Raiders to strengthen their roster and improve their competitiveness.
Financial Flexibility and Draft Strategy
The Raiders enter the offseason with an estimated $96 million in cap space, the second-highest in the league behind the New England Patriots. This financial flexibility provides the team with the opportunity to make key acquisitions and upgrades to their roster. Notable potential cuts, such as Gardner Minshew II and Andre James, will further free up cap space. With the 6th overall pick in the draft, the Raiders have the flexibility to address their needs. Ashton Jeanty, a highly touted running back from Boise State, could be a perfect fit to revitalize the team’s ground game. Adding a dynamic player like Jeanty, along with further investments in the offensive line and wide receiver positions, sets the stage for a more balanced and formidable offense.
Conclusion
The 2024 season was challenging for the Raiders, but the off-season presents a window of opportunity for significant improvement. The hiring of Pete Carroll and the trade for Geno Smith provide stability at the quarterback position, while the extension of Maxx Crosby strengthens the defense. Addressing key free agents and drafting wisely will be critical in building a competitive team. The Raiders have the financial flexibility and draft capital to make impactful moves, setting the stage for a promising future in Las Vegas.
