Despite a busy offseason filled with activity, CBS Sports does not believe the Las Vegas Raiders made enough improvements for the 2025 season.
Coming off what was a disastrous campaign last year, the Silver and Black were going to need wholesale changes. That’s exactly what Raiders ownership executed—a new general manager and head coach duo. That pair, consisting of John Spytek and Pete Carroll, then made their own sweeping changes at quarterback and running back. The result is a new-look team that’s undergone quite the facelift.
Was it all enough to climb the ranks of the AFC West, a division home to three playoff squads?
CBS Sports is not impressed with the 2025 Raiders…
R.J. White of CBS Sports analyzed the Raiders’ offseason moves and provided his candid predictions about what is likely to occur. “There hasn’t been enough of a talent upgrade anywhere besides quarterback and running back. The latter is arguably one of the least impactful positions to take early in the draft,” White wrote. While Geno Smith and Ashton Jeanty were arguably the biggest names added to the roster, it’s superficial to think those were the only moves. Still, White goes on.
“While Ashton Jeanty is an incredible talent,” says White, “does having him give the team a better chance at stacking wins than having a legit No. 1 receiver like Tetairoa McMillan, a legitimate running mate for Maxx Crosby on the defensive line, or a top-tier right tackle prospect that would’ve given Las Vegas one of the better tackle pairings in the league?”
Did Las Vegas do enough this offseason?
It’s fascinating to look at what White proposes. Meanwhile, is it likely that McMillan would have elevated this offense to the same level that Jeanty is expected to achieve? Objectively looking at the wide receiver corps, Spytek did a respectable job of loading it up with tons of potential. In contrast, reloading the offense was clearly the priority this offseason. However, adding another pass rusher would have certainly benefited Crosby.
The biggest addition that the Raiders made this offseason wasn’t a player; it was Carroll. Plugging in a head coach with Super Bowl-winning experience and a resume that’s full of culture-setting examples will help set the Raiders apart.
Unlike in years past, if this team plays from behind, you now have confidence that the game will be far from over. A competent offense will be Crosby and the defense’s biggest ally.
*Top Photo: The Sporting Tribune