Las Vegas Raiders Making Roster Moves Ahead of Rookies Reporting for Camp
As the 2025 NFL season looms on the horizon, the Las Vegas Raiders have kicked preparations into high gear. With rookies set to report to training camp, the team is in the midst of a crucial roster reshuffling phase. From undrafted free agent signings and strategic cuts to trades and practice squad adjustments, the Raiders are carefully shaping their 90-man offseason roster, looking to build a competitive team under head coach Antonio Pierce and new general manager Tom Telesco.
This detailed report dives into the most significant moves made by the Raiders ahead of rookie camp, providing insight into how these decisions could influence the team’s trajectory in 2025 and beyond.
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I. The Context: A New Era Under Antonio Pierce
Following the tumultuous 2023 season and interim leadership transition, Antonio Pierce was officially named head coach in early 2024. His appointment signaled a cultural reset—a return to toughness, discipline, and Raider swagger. The front office overhaul brought in veteran GM Tom Telesco, formerly of the Chargers, to bring stability and experience to player personnel decisions.
Both men share a vision: building a physically dominant, defensively sound, and high-character team. That vision is evident in the roster decisions leading into training camp.
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II. Key Roster Moves Leading into Camp
1. Release of Veteran Players to Create Cap Space and Roster Room
One of the first waves of moves included the release of several veteran players to free up cap space and make room for younger talent.
CB Brandon Facyson – A familiar face, Facyson returned in 2023 but struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. The Raiders opted to release him, freeing up over $2 million in cap space.
WR DeAndre Carter – Though a reliable special teams contributor, Carter’s release opened opportunities for younger receivers and return specialists.
DT Jerry Tillery – Once a promising reclamation project, Tillery’s lack of consistency led to his release. The move signals confidence in younger interior linemen like Byron Young and Nesta Jade Silvera.
These decisions highlight a clear shift toward youth, athleticism, and upside.
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2. Undrafted Free Agent Signings
The Raiders were aggressive in the undrafted free agent (UDFA) market, targeting players with traits that align with Pierce’s physical and competitive ethos. Notable UDFA additions include:
QB John Rhys Plumlee (UCF) – A dynamic dual-threat quarterback who could develop into a gadget player or practice squad project.
RB Isaiah Davis (South Dakota State) – A powerful runner with vision and toughness, Davis may challenge for RB3 duties behind Zamir White and Alexander Mattison.
WR Jalen Coker (Holy Cross) – A small-school standout with excellent body control and hands. He’s already turning heads in OTAs with his route running and red zone ability.
LB James Dumas (UAB) – An undersized but tenacious linebacker who profiles well on special teams.
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3. Rookie Contract Signings
First-round pick Brock Bowers, the elite tight end from Georgia, signed his rookie deal—a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth approximately $16.4 million. The team is ecstatic about Bowers, expecting him to immediately impact the passing game alongside Michael Mayer in two-tight-end sets.
All other draft picks—CB Decamerion Richardson (Mississippi State), OG Cooper Beebe (Kansas State), and DL Dylan Horton (TCU)—have also inked their rookie deals. With contract logistics resolved early, the focus shifts entirely to development.
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III. Position Battles to Watch
With these roster moves setting the table, several position battles are poised to take center stage during rookie and full-team camps.
Quarterback Depth
Starter: Aidan O’Connell is projected to begin training camp as the starter, though veteran Gardner Minshew II—signed in free agency—is expected to push hard for the job. Rookie John Rhys Plumlee will likely compete for a practice squad slot.
Running Back
With Josh Jacobs gone to Green Bay, Zamir White is the presumed RB1, but the team added Alexander Mattison for veteran insurance. Isaiah Davis will battle Brittain Brown and Sincere McCormick for RB3 duties.
Wide Receiver
Davante Adams remains the alpha, with Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker rounding out the top three. Youngsters like Jalen Coker and Kristian Wilkerson are in contention for depth roles, especially if injuries arise.
Offensive Line
The Raiders are mixing youth with experience. Veteran Andre James is locked in at center, but positions like right guard and right tackle remain fluid. Rookie Cooper Beebe may push for a starting role at left guard or even center if needed.
Defensive Line
With Jerry Tillery gone, Malcolm Koonce, Tyree Wilson, and Maxx Crosby are the edge anchors. Inside, Bilal Nichols and Adam Butler are leaders, but Nesta Jade Silvera and Matthew Butler are names to watch.
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IV. Defensive Revamp Under New Coordinator Patrick Graham
The Raiders’ defense showed promise late last season under Patrick Graham, and this year’s personnel moves reflect confidence in his scheme.
CB Nate Hobbs is expected to thrive in the slot again, while the addition of Decamerion Richardson provides size and length on the boundary.
The safety duo of Tre’von Moehrig and Marcus Epps is solid, but don’t rule out second-year DB Chris Smith II challenging for more snaps.
LB Robert Spillane returns to lead a linebacker corps bolstered by rookies and younger players. There’s strong buzz around Amari Burney’s development.
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V. Special Teams Shakeups
The Raiders parted ways with longtime punter AJ Cole, choosing to go with rookie Jack Browning out of SDSU—a big-legged, high-ceiling punter. Kicker Daniel Carlson remains one of the most consistent in the league.
Return duties are wide open, with DeAndre Carter’s release paving the way for Tre Tucker, DJ Turner, or even Jalen Coker to seize the role.
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VI. Practice Squad Strategy
Expect the Raiders to use the expanded 16-man practice squad creatively. Players like Plumlee (QB), Dumas (LB), and Coker (WR) could land there if they don’t make the final 53-man cut but impress during camp.
Veteran elevation rules also give flexibility to stash contributors while keeping the active roster lean.
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VII. Culture, Competition, and Accountability
Antonio Pierce has been clear: there are no entitlements in the building. Every player, from Davante Adams to the last undrafted signee, must earn their role. That culture shift was visible during OTAs and minicamps, with coaches emphasizing tempo, execution, and physicality.
Pierce’s influence—along with the presence of respected veterans like Maxx Crosby and Kolton Miller—is fostering a competitive camp environment that could help rookies and depth players develop faster.
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VIII. Outlook and Expectations
The Raiders aren’t just reshuffling for the sake of change; they’re reshaping the franchise identity. With a focus on drafting well, developing talent, and setting a high standard in camp, the team is positioning itself to compete in a tough AFC West.
While the playoff window remains uncertain, 2025 will be pivotal for proving that this rebuild under Antonio Pierce and Tom Telesco is on the right track.
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Conclusion
As rookies report to camp, the Las Vegas Raiders’ recent roster moves are more than administrative—they’re emblematic of a franchise retooling its future. Every cut, signing, and draft decision reflects a larger plan: to reestablish the Silver and Black as a force in the NFL. With a promising rookie class, a fierce camp atmosphere, and a renewed commitment to accountability, the Raiders are charging into 2025 with purpose.
Now, all eyes turn to Henderson, Nevada, where training camp begins and the next chapter of Raiders football starts taking shape.
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