Raider Nation, buckle those chin straps—because this Las Vegas Raiders rookie class might just be the group that launches Las Vegas into a new era of silver-and-black dominance. Four new players are already making significant contributions during offseason workouts, and if initial reports are accurate, these young players will not only make significant contributions in 2025, but they will also shape it.
Let’s begin with Ashton Jeanty, a formidable backfield player who came with high expectations and no fear. Let’s face it, as the organization’s top pick this year, there’s a lot riding on him. Dubbed the best running back in his draft class, Jeanty’s versatility is precisely what offensive coordinator Chip Kelly craves in his uptempo attack. He’s a powerful runner who excels in tight spaces and a skilled pass catcher—anticipate him to challenge linebackers and safeties as he establishes himself as the central figure of a revamped offense.
Speaking of a revamped Raiders offense…
Rookies on offense who will make an impact in 2025
Offensively, Jack Bech is establishing himself as a formidable player. The rugged and savvy receiver not only catches everything but also craves contact and excels in the dirty work across the middle. When paired with Brock Bowers, Michael Mayer, and Jakobi Meyers, Kelly’s play-action packages could turn Sundays into a chess match that opponents simply can’t win.
And then there’s Dont’e Thornton Jr.—6’5″, blazing 4.3 speed, and dripping with big-play potential. He’s drawing preseason buzz as a future NFL mismatch nightmare. Give him single coverage? That’s an automatic six points. Or, how about you let him stretch the defense—Jeanty then eats underneath and we know how that ends up. It’s a pick-your-poison scenario, and Raider Nation is drooling.
With the Raiders’ rookies reporting today, which player are you most excited to see take the field and hear from? pic.twitter.com/Vb9bcQQKH4
— RaiderRamble.com™ (@TheRaiderRamble) July 17, 2025
For the first time in a long while, there is genuine excitement for the Raiders’ offense. However, the caveat is that many unproven rookies are under significant pressure. On the flip side, having a veteran quarterback like Geno Smith should help bring everything together. Additionally, there is considerable promise on the defensive side of the ball.
The Raiders could have a special talent at corner…
On the defensive side, Darien Porter could very well be the steal of the draft. The former wide receiver who has transitioned to cornerback possesses the ideal size (6’2″), impressive speed (4.3), and the confident demeanor that fits perfectly within a Pete Carroll secondary. Just look at what he built during his tenure in Seattle: tall, lengthy, and physical cornerbacks.
Porter’s ball-tracking skills from his receiver days are already showing up, and insiders say he’s earning legit first-team reps. Give him a year to grow into the position, and the Raiders may have their lockdown corner of the future.
If Las Vegas is celebrating in January of 2025, it will undoubtedly be because this rookie class didn’t wait for their opportunity—they seized it. The future is quick, tough, and unafraid—and it’s making its way to Vegas right on time.
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*Top Photo: Getty Images