Las Vegas Raiders legend (technically, Oakland Raiders) Donald Penn understands better than anyone how to turn things around. He recently shared his thoughts on the current team.
When Penn talks Raiders football, Raider Nation listens. The former Pro Bowl left tackle, who anchored Derek Carr’s blindside during some of the franchise’s most competitive years in Oakland, has always carried the voice of a proud Raider. And this week, Penn is already setting the tone for the season ahead.
Donald Penn’s Raider Blueprint: Beat the Patriots, Ride Jeanty to 1K
Vegas Sports Today captured Penn’s mindset perfectly: “We’re playing New England this week, and we have to take that as a little disrespect. I’m excited to see them get started this year; we’re going to have a turnaround this year. Ashton Jeanty is going to have a 1K-yard season.” (H/T Vegas Sports Today)
That’s not just optimism—it’s conviction. Calling out the Patriots matchup as “disrespect” is vintage Raiders swagger, the kind of edge the Silver and Black need as they break in a new era under Pete Carroll and a fresh offensive identity. And the Jeanty prediction? It’s the type of bold, confident call that gets fans buzzing. Raider Nation loves a workhorse back, and if Jeanty hits 1,000 yards, Penn’s words will look prophetic.
Off the field, Penn continues to show his connection to the game. Rebels head coach Dan Mullen invited him to attend UCLA vs. UNLV with his son over the weekend. For a legend who’s always been a proud family man, it’s a reminder that his love for football—and mentoring the next generation—never really leaves him.
As Week 1 against the Patriots quickly approaches, Penn’s statement highlights a fundamental reality: respect in this league is earned, not given. If the Raiders are genuinely prepared for a turnaround, it begins with demonstrating that Penn’s words hold true on Sunday.
Related: Pete Carroll’s Blueprint For His 2025 Raiders
*Top Photo: Getty Images