The Las Vegas Raiders head into 2025 with fresh hope and a bolstered roster. They’re eager to make some noise in the AFC after years of languishing in the doldrums. Last season, they won just four games, while all three of their divisional rivals made it to the playoffs. Now, the Sin City side has strengthened, and they’re aiming to reel in the rest of the division.
Admittedly, online gambling sites are somewhat unconvinced. The latest real money gambling at Bovada odds price the Raiders as a +1100 outsider to win the AFC West, while they’ve also set the line for their number of regular season wins at 6.5. However, if these three men perform to the best of their ability, a special campaign could be on the cards at Allegiant Stadium.
Maxx Crosby
If there’s one constant force driving the Raiders’ defense, it’s Maxx Crosby. The 27-year-old has long been the sole bright light in an underwhelming team, and while he does have support in 2025, the former Eastern Michigan Eagle remains Vegas’ most important star.
Coming off an injury-riddled 2024 season, Crosby signed a jaw-dropping three-year, $106.5 million extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. And for good reason. Since arriving in 2019, Crosby has racked up 59.5 sacks, ranking third in franchise history. He isn’t done yet.
Ashton Jeanty
With the Raiders’ rushing attack languishing near the bottom of the league in 2024, all eyes turn to Ashton Jeanty. The explosive running back is an absolute beast and was unquestionably the best running back in the recent draft class. The Vegas front office agreed, selecting the Boise State superstar with the sixth overall pick.
It wouldn’t be a Boise State first half without a massive Ashton Jeanty TD run
— Bovada (@BovadaOfficial) December 7, 2024
The 21-year-old has drawn comparisons to some of the all-time greats after a stellar college career. A career in which he racked up over 1,500 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns in his final season alone. Teaming up with veteran Raheem Mostert, Jeanty gives the Raiders a one-two punch in the backfield that might make him the game-changer the Raiders have been so desperately looking for.
Brock Bowers
There’s a reason Brock Bowers is already being touted as one of the NFL’s premier tight ends. After a breakout rookie season in 2024, the 22-year-old enters 2025 ready to cement his reputation. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches in the red zone not only makes him a favorite target for his quarterback but also a nightmare for defensive coordinators.
Both wideouts, Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker, look set to make an impact next season, but Bowers will be the primary target for incoming quarterback Geno Smith. Their connection could well become the foundation of the Raiders’ aerial attack. And with Jeanty pummeling his way through defenses on the ground, Vegas now has a two-pronged attack that is up there with any other duo in the league.
*Top Photo: Getty Images