The Las Vegas Raiders faced a tough 2024 NFL season, notching a 4-13 record that sparked a whirlwind of changes within the organization. Key figures at the helm now include new General Manager John Spytek and Head Coach Pete Carroll, ushering in a fresh philosophy aimed at rejuvenating the team from the ground up. In the mix as well are the returning Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham and newly appointed Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly, creating a coaching lineup that looks impressive on paper. But as the Raiders set their sights on a brighter 2025 season, the question remains: What strategic moves can they make to bolster their roster?
Top 3 Free Agent Targets for the Las Vegas Raiders
Honorable Mention: Safety Tre’von Moehrig, Las Vegas Raiders
Tre’von Moehrig, a 2021 second-round pick by the Raiders, has quietly established himself as one of the rising safeties in the NFL. Over the past couple of seasons, Moehrig has been a force in the secondary, ranking in the top 15 for interceptions and forced incompletion rates according to PFF since 2023. His 2024 Run Defense Grade of 87.5 showcases his ability to be a vital cog in the Raiders’ defensive unit. Retaining Moehrig before he tests free agency could be pivotal for maintaining the team’s defensive integrity.
EDGE Josh Sweat, Philadelphia Eagles
For a Raiders team blessed with defensive stalwarts like Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins, adding another pass-rushing powerhouse like Josh Sweat could be the key to the defensive puzzle. Sweat brings seasoned yet youthful dynamism as a consistent performer; his PFF Pass Rush Grade of 75.7 and Run Defense Grade of 69.3 attest to his well-rounded skill set. Competing in a division teeming with quarterback talents like Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Bo Nix, Sweat’s presence could prove invaluable in pressuring these formidable opponents.
WR Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Before facing a setback with an ankle injury in Week 7, Chris Godwin was on course for the season of his career, amassing 576 receiving yards and tallying five touchdowns. While the ankle injury poses some questions, the connections run deep for Godwin with the Raiders. General Manager John Spytek and minority owner Tom Brady both share history with him from their days with the Buccaneers. If Godwin fully rebounds, his addition alongside Jakobi Meyers and Brock Bowers could form a formidable receiving corps, setting a strong foundation for whoever assumes the quarterback role in Las Vegas.
RB Aaron Jones, Minnesota Vikings
With a 2024 run game that fell short of expectations, the pairing of Pete Carroll and Chip Kelly might be eying an explosive backfield makeover. Enter Aaron Jones, whose dual-threat capabilities could ignite the Raiders’ ground game while also providing potency in the aerial attack. Jones’ 2024 season performances, as reflected in his PFF Rushing and Receiving Grades of 75.8 and 74.6 respectively, reveal a versatile back still capable of making a significant impact. His addition would not only address immediate needs but also offer potential room to groom new talent through the draft.
Conclusion
The Raiders have already made bold moves this offseason, which signal their commitment to transformation. With an invested coaching staff in place, the continuation of strategic free agency acquisitions is likely as they aim to reconstruct the franchise’s fortunes. By bringing in dynamic players who can match the vision set by their leadership, the Raiders are positioning themselves as a team eager for a comeback in future NFL seasons.
