Heading into free agency, the Las Vegas Raiders were second in cap space available. Although March 12th was the first day of the new season, the Silver and Black started a little sooner. Before any free agent negotiations could begin, the team successfully signed and traded for players—new general manager John Spytek wasn’t messing around.
Even though Raider Nation didn’t necessarily agree with the decisions, the Raiders addressed defense and offense in drastic ways. Still, the Raiders have more room to add additional assets to this roster—in other words, let’s look at the offseason additions made thus far.
Top 5 offseason additions by John Spytek and the Raiders
No. 5: Elandon Roberts, Linebacker
Roberts was signed to a one-year, $3 million contract. The Raiders were unable to retain Robert Spillane and needed immediate help.
Roberts is predominantly known as a run defender, posting a Pro Football Focus grade of 91.0 in run defense. However, he struggles in pass coverage, which could become a liability. While the former Pittsburgh Steeler will make an impact, keeping Spillane would have been a massive win for this team.
At 30 years old, there is not much room for growth at this point. But a fresh start could help bring something out of Roberts the world has not seen.
No. 4: Raheem Mostert, Running Back
With Sin City having one of the worst running offenses in 2024, there was a prominent need for change. Both Zamir White and Alexander Mattison only showed flashes, not sustainability. Additionally, Chip Kelly wanted someone with familiarity with this new offense. The former Dolphin was signed to a one-year deal, giving Las Vegas a complimentary piece at excellent value.
Mostert’s best season was in 2019 with Kelly as a San Francisco 49er. This season he rushed for 772 yards and eight touchdowns. Although age may play a factor, Mostert brings a home run threat to this offense. In due time, there will be another addition made to this running back room. The 33-year-old brings veteran leadership that the room needs.
The Raiders kept some homegrown talent after all…
No. 3: Malcolm Koonce, Edge Rusher
Heading into last season, Koonce was supposed to have a breakout season. He injured his leg before the 2024 campaign could start. Christian Wilkins, Maxx Crosby, and Koonce will have another chance to excel for the Raiders in 2025. Koonce, who formerly played on a rookie contract, will now be playing on a one-year contract.
This season will grant the opportunity for No. 51 to stamp his place as the second edge rusher. Besides Crosby, Sin City has been desperately searching for help on the defensive line. The team was able to keep a promising, young edge rusher at a decent price. Las Vegas lost half of their starting defense last season.
No. 2: Jeremy Chinn, Safety
Due to Tre’von Moehrig signing with the Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas headed in a cheaper direction. The team signed Jeremy Chinn to a two-year, $16 million deal. Although the contract value is modest, Chinn was one of the best safeties available. At 27 years old, the former Washington Commander joins the team with 441 tackles and three interceptions in his career.
He is a powerful hitter with the potential to develop into a zone player. Chin is the type of player Raider fans hoped Johnathan Abram would become.
No. 1: Geno Smith, Quarterback
Since the release of Derek Carr, there has been one question. Who is going to play quarterback for the Raiders? Time after time, regimes have failed to solve this problem. Aidan O’Connell, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Gardner Minshew have all proven to be ineffective as solutions. This may finally change.
Pete Carroll traded for the last quarterback who played for him. The West Virginia alum is coming off a season with 4,320 passing yards and 21 touchdowns. Smith joins this team with hopes to win his first playoff game. Since moving to Las Vegas, the Raiders have not won a playoff game either. Smith has contributed to three winning seasons in a row for the Seahawks. 2025 will hopefully bring his fourth.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
More Raiders Offseason News
The Linebacker Search Continues
Adding To The Defensive Line Remains Top Priority
Las Vegas Adds Another Tight End
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