The Las Vegas Raiders began their preseason with some noteworthy results, including Cam Miller’s impressive performance and Ashton Jeanty’s stumble.
New Raiders head coach Pete Carroll went home in his first game since taking over for the Silver and Black. The Seattle Seahawks, whom Carroll propelled to a Super Bowl win, welcomed the Raiders on Thursday to officially bring back football. In the end, both teams emerged mostly unharmed and with a tied score. The matchup “doesn’t count,” but there were some notable findings.
Did Tom Brady find the next Raiders quarterback?
Cam Miller’s NFL preseason debut was about as good as a rookie could script it. The Raiders’ sixth-round pick completed six of seven passes for 76 yards and threw a touchdown, quickly making his mark with a stunning 41-yard bomb on the opening drive. Later, he almost concluded the night with a game-winning drive down the field—only to have that potential hero moment thwarted by a blocked kick.
Miller’s poise was not merely a result of luck. Veteran quarterback Geno Smith has mentored the rookie, providing guidance that only a former wide-eyed newcomer can provide. “I just try to slow it down for him,” Smith said. “Take deep breaths… I remember when I was a rookie.” That mentorship, paired with Miller’s natural rhythm-based style, could make Thursday’s upcoming game in Seattle a crucial stepping stone.
For a late-round QB, Miller’s early flashes are turning heads—perhaps even validating the instincts of a certain Raiders minority owner who knows a thing or two about sixth-round gems. Raider Nation has been eager for young talent to inspire confidence, and if Miller continues to deliver impressive performances, they may have discovered their next underdog story to rally around.
It appears that Brady may possess some of that Al Davis charm, as the legendary owner had a unique talent for discovering gifted players.
Speaking of talented players, how did things go for Ashton Jeanty, the organization’s prized first-round selection?
Ashton Jeanty’s debut…
Ashton Jeanty’s NFL debut was less a fair trial and more a crash course in life behind a struggling offensive line. The No. 6 overall pick finished with -3 yards on three carries in the Raiders’ 23-23 preseason tie with the Seahawks—a stat line that, at first glance, will feed every “this is what he does against real competition” hot take.
But context matters.
Three carries provide limited understanding of a running back’s true potential, particularly when every play encounters immediate pressure in the backfield. Jeanty, who was a Heisman Trophy runner-up and a fan favorite over the actual winner, Travis Hunter, faced virtually no running lanes. The issues with the Raiders’ offensive line were evident, collapsing before Jeanty had the chance to establish his footing or showcase his well-known vision and explosiveness.
This is a situation where the numbers don’t always reflect the truth.
Critics will point to the numbers; smarter eyes will see a debut sabotaged by circumstance. Under those conditions, even the Raiders’ most polished backs would have faced significant obstacles. The game on Thursday, if anything, brought to light the important areas to concentrate on—up front—before the regular season begins.
For now, Jeanty’s stock should remain stable. Give him the opportunity to run, and the highlight reels will inevitably follow. Until that happens, this debut is more a reflection of the blockers than the ball carrier. Perhaps it would be wise for Raider Nation to take a step back and stay calm.
Related: 2025 AFC West Power Rankings—Quarterbacks
*Top Photo: Getty Images