Ranking the New-Look Las Vegas Raiders Following Early Moves

The Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2025 offseason with significant roster adjustments, eager to reshape their team after a difficult 2024 season. Whether through free-agent acquisitions, trades, or the NFL draft, the Raiders have made a series of moves designed to push the team back into contention. The overhaul is indicative of their desire to not only improve their roster but also give their fanbase a glimmer of hope for the future.

With new pieces in place and expectations rising, it’s time to take stock of the current Raiders roster, analyze how the new additions fit into the scheme, and rank them accordingly based on their impact, potential, and role moving forward. The following analysis will cover key acquisitions and returning players, providing an in-depth look at how the new-look Raiders are shaping up for the 2025 season.

1. Jimmy Garoppolo – Quarterback

After several seasons with Derek Carr under center, the Raiders decided to go in a new direction by signing Jimmy Garoppolo in free agency. A Super Bowl-winning quarterback with a wealth of experience, Garoppolo comes to Las Vegas with the potential to lead the team to a playoff berth. His addition is pivotal not just for his ability to win games, but also for his stability at the quarterback position, an area the Raiders have struggled with in recent years.

Why Garoppolo is a key addition:

• Experience: Garoppolo brings experience from both New England and San Francisco, having played in big games and led a team to the Super Bowl.
• Efficiency: While not known for being a flashy playmaker, Garoppolo excels in a system that values precision, quick throws, and controlling the clock. With the right offensive line and weapons, he could be a major asset for the Raiders.
• Leadership: One of the main reasons for his signing is Garoppolo’s ability to command the locker room. With a history of working with offensive-minded coaches like Kyle Shanahan, his knowledge will be valuable in helping establish a winning culture in Las Vegas.

Garoppolo’s role is clear: he’s the starter and will be expected to elevate the offense and serve as the stabilizing force at quarterback.

2. Davante Adams – Wide Receiver

Adams, one of the premier wide receivers in the league, will return for the 2025 season as the centerpiece of the Raiders’ passing attack. His chemistry with Garoppolo is still in the early stages, but the potential is undeniable. Adams is a top-tier talent who can stretch the field, win contested catches, and be a go-to target on third downs and in the red zone.

Why Adams is irreplaceable:

• Elite route-running: Adams is among the best in the NFL when it comes to route precision, separation, and creating mismatches.
• Red-zone dominance: One of the most consistent red-zone threats in the NFL, Adams will continue to be Garoppolo’s top target in high-pressure situations.
• Mentor for young receivers: As one of the veteran leaders on the team, Adams can help guide the younger receivers, showing them how to create space and make plays in critical moments.

While Adams is entering his 30s, he is still performing at a high level and will likely remain the most valuable weapon in the Raiders’ arsenal for the foreseeable future.

3. Chandler Jones – Edge Rusher

Defensive end Chandler Jones is returning for his third season with the Raiders, and after a quiet 2024 season, expectations are high for him to be a disruptive force again. While the team made several notable moves in free agency and the draft, Jones’ experience and proven pass-rushing ability give him the chance to be a top performer.

Why Chandler Jones still matters:

• Pass rush ability: When healthy and performing at his best, Jones is one of the most dangerous pass rushers in the league. His ability to collapse the pocket and pressure quarterbacks will be critical to the Raiders’ defensive success.
• Veteran leadership: In addition to his on-field play, Jones is one of the team’s veterans and can provide leadership and guidance to the younger edge rushers, especially during crucial game situations.
• Complementary role: With the addition of other pass rushers, Jones could find himself in a more complementary role, helping to draw attention away from other rushers or opening up opportunities for his teammates.

Chandler Jones will be a crucial piece for the Raiders’ defense, and while he may not be the sole star, his role as a versatile pass rusher will still be essential.

4. Maxx Crosby – Edge Rusher

One of the most dynamic pass rushers in the NFL, Maxx Crosby has earned a well-deserved reputation for his relentless motor and ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Crosby is an elite talent and one of the cornerstones of the Raiders’ defense.

Why Crosby is indispensable:

• Elite edge rusher: Crosby consistently ranks among the top in the NFL for sacks and pressures. His ability to disrupt the quarterback on every snap makes him an invaluable asset to the Raiders’ defense.
• Durability and work ethic: Crosby is known for his physical conditioning and nonstop effort. He has consistently played at a high level without much drop-off, earning him the respect of coaches and peers.
• Team leader: Crosby’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball cannot be understated. He is a vocal leader, setting the tone for the rest of the defense with his work ethic and passion for the game.

Crosby will be the focal point of the Raiders’ defensive line and continue to be a force on third downs, a critical situation for any defense.

5. Josh Jacobs – Running Back

After a breakout 2024 season where Jacobs led the NFL in rushing yards, the Raiders opted to re-sign the star running back for the 2025 season. Jacobs provides the Raiders with a reliable, physical presence in the backfield, capable of wearing down defenses and controlling the clock. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact makes him one of the toughest running backs in the league.

Why Jacobs is crucial for success:

• Elite rushing ability: Jacobs’ ability to pick up consistent yardage and churn out tough runs gives the Raiders a balanced offense.
• Versatility in the passing game: While not necessarily known for being a receiving back, Jacobs has shown he can contribute in the passing game, making him even more valuable in a versatile offensive scheme.
• Physical style: Jacobs is a downhill runner who does not shy away from contact. His bruising style allows him to wear down opposing defenses and sustain long drives.

As the focal point of the Raiders’ ground game, Jacobs will need to maintain his high level of play to ensure the offense remains balanced.

6. Tyree Wilson – Edge Rusher (Rookie)

A top draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Tyree Wilson comes to Las Vegas with high expectations. The Raiders were eager to add to their pass-rush arsenal and see Wilson as a player who can contribute right away. While he’s still developing, the potential is immense.

Why Wilson could be a game-changer:

• Raw athleticism: Wilson has the size, speed, and physicality that could make him a force in the NFL. His ability to bend around the edge and get to the quarterback is one of his best traits.
• High upside: While still developing, Wilson’s upside as a pass rusher makes him one of the most intriguing players to watch on defense. If he can adjust quickly to the NFL, he could become a starter sooner than expected.
• Complimentary rusher: With the presence of Crosby and Jones, Wilson could be allowed to develop more slowly, learning from two veteran pass rushers while contributing in a rotational role.

While Wilson’s ranking here is somewhat lower due to his inexperience, his potential makes him a key player to monitor as the season progresses.

7. Davante Adams’ Supporting Cast – Wide Receivers

While Adams is the clear-cut No. 1 receiver, the Raiders have invested in surrounding him with more talent. Veteran receivers like Hunter Renfrow and tight end Darren Waller provide Garoppolo with more weapons, and new acquisitions such as rookie receiver Zay Flowers bring additional depth to the position.

Why they matter:

• Complementary weapons: Renfrow’s route-running and possession skills make him a reliable second option, while Waller can be a matchup nightmare for defenses.
• Youth movement: The addition of younger players, like Zay Flowers, gives the Raiders a deeper receiver corps and provides Garoppolo with multiple avenues to move the ball.
• Balanced offense: Having a strong supporting cast helps take pressure off Adams and spreads the field, forcing opposing defenses to account for more than just one weapon.

The collective strength of the Raiders’ wide receiver group could help make Garoppolo’s transition to Las Vegas much smoother, giving him reliable targets and ensuring a dynamic passing attack.

The Las Vegas Raiders have made significant moves during the offseason, with a focus on both veteran leadership and youthful potential. The team’s revamped roster brings a sense of excitement and optimism, especially with key acquisitions like Garoppolo, Jacobs, and the influx of young talent like Wilson and Flowers. The combination of veteran stars and promising newcomers gives the Raiders a balanced and competitive roster for the 2025 season. If the team can come together under their new leadership and execute at a high level, the new-look Raiders could be a force to be reckoned with in the AFC.