Let’s update you on the latest Las Vegas Raiders speculation, including an update on Christian Wilkins, a trade idea involving Trey Hendrickson, and the persistent Amari Cooper rumor.
It’s been an intriguing few days for the Silver and Black. Many fans are concerned about Wilkins’ health heading into the season—some are even turning on him on social media. The recent video circulating online has alleviated some concerns about Wilkins’ health heading into the season. Meanwhile, there’s Hendrickson, the highly regarded pass rusher from the Cincinnati Bengals. Are the Raiders considering making a move for him? A specific beat writer strongly believes that Hendrickson should be on the Raiders’ list.
Additionally, Cooper’s name keeps surfacing as a potential target for Las Vegas, but is the interest mutual? Do fans not recall how unhappy he appeared during his time in Oakland?
New video sparks optimism about Raiders’ $110M star defender…
Raiders fans may finally receive clarity on Wilkins and the foot injury that has dominated offseason chatter as training camp approaches.
Since April, when initial reports revealed a setback to his surgically repaired foot, there have been inconsistent updates on Wilkins’ condition. Some outlets hinted he might miss the entire 2025 season, while others offered a more hopeful timeline. Rumors of a second procedure added to the mystery, but little has been confirmed.
Then came a glimmer of good news. Well, sort of.
Over the weekend, wide receiver Alex Bachman posted a video on Instagram that showed Wilkins—bootless and smiling—dancing around the Raiders’ facility. No limp, no sign of discomfort. Just good vibes.
The team officially placed Wilkins on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list last week, but this video suggests he’s making real progress.
As veteran players report this week, we anticipate receiving more concrete information soon. But for now, it’s safe to say Raider Nation has reason to feel a little more optimistic about their $110 million defensive anchor.
Raiders insider teases bold blockbuster trade to shake things up…
Could Hendrickson be the missing piece in Silver and Black? Sports Illustrated’s Hondo Carpenter sure thinks so—and he’s not letting the idea go.
For the second time this offseason, Carpenter has pushed the Raiders to make a bold move for the Bengals’ star edge rusher. On his Las Vegas Raiders Insider podcast this week, he didn’t hold back: “Go get Trey Hendrickson. You just don’t have enough elite defensive linemen. I’d make that trade today.”
While he didn’t reveal his exact trade package, Carpenter hinted it would include at least one surprising name. His philosophy? Double down on strength. “You make your strongest position even stronger,” he said.
Back in May, Carpenter suggested the idea of pairing Hendrickson with Maxx Crosby, Christian Wilkins, and Malcolm Koonce to create an elite defensive front. He believes the Raiders possess both the salary cap space and the motivation to pursue this move, particularly given the limited availability of elite corners and linebackers in the current market.
The Bengals have publicly said Hendrickson isn’t available—but if contract talks keep stalling, don’t count anything out. Raider Nation is well aware that stars with uncertain contracts often change their minds.
The Amari Cooper rumor that won’t go away…
Nearly a decade after drafting Amari Cooper with the fifth overall pick, the Raiders may have a shot at bringing him back—this time as a seasoned vet.
Now 31, Cooper isn’t the explosive Pro Bowler he once was, but the Raiders’ current wide receiver room is far from stacked. Outside of Jakobi Meyers, there’s no clear WR1 or WR2. Tre Tucker is expected to step up, but there’s no guarantee he’s a long-term solution. Although he will require time to develop, rookie Jack Bech has potential.
That’s where Cooper comes in.
As Pedro Narduchi of Pro Football Network notes, Las Vegas “desperately needs receiving depth,” and Cooper’s familiarity with the franchise makes this a natural fit. His experience could provide a steadying presence for new quarterback Geno Smith while easing the pressure on Bech in year one.
Cooper may not be the top target anymore, but as a reliable possession receiver or deep threat, he still holds value—especially if the price is right.
A reunion may lack excitement, but it makes sense. For a Raiders team focused on a playoff push, it could provide the spark they need. The only question left is whether he truly wants to return to the Raiders.
Related: Former Raiders Starting QB Gets New Gig in Cincy
*Top Photo: Wade Vandervort/Las Vegas Sun