Raider Nation, brace yourselves—the Las Vegas Raiders’ offense is gearing up for a thrilling 2025 season. After a lackluster 2024, new head coach Pete Carroll, general manager John Spytek, and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly have transformed the unit with blockbuster draft picks and strategic veteran additions. From a superstar running back to dynamic playmakers, the Silver and Black are loaded with talent. Here’s why the Raiders’ offense is about to light up the NFL.
Ashton Jeanty: The Game-Changing RB
The Raiders struck gold with their No. 6 overall pick, Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. This wasn’t just a selection—it was a franchise-altering move. Jeanty’s 2024 college season was historic, with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, nearly eclipsing an NCAA record. His blend of power, agility, and vision makes him the cornerstone of Carroll’s run-first attack. He’s a “generational talent,” raved one scout, and he’s ready to dominate.
Jeanty takes over as RB1, backed by veterans like Raheem Mostert and holdovers Zamir White and Dylan Laube. Mostert’s speed adds a change-of-pace element, but Jeanty is the workhorse. Last year, the Raiders’ run game was the NFL’s worst, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry. Jeanty’s college clip of 7.0 yards per carry promises to turn that weakness into a strength, giving Las Vegas a punishing ground attack.
Geno Smith: The Answer at QB
The quarterback revolving door—five starters in two years—stops spinning with Geno Smith, acquired in a trade. Smith’s arm strength, pocket poise, and play-action prowess align perfectly with Kelly’s system. His Pro Bowl-caliber season a few years back showed he can sling it with the best, and at 34, he’s hungry to prove he’s a long-term solution.
With Jeanty commanding defensive focus, Smith will have clean pockets and open throwing lanes. Late-round pick Cole Miller, a raw but intriguing prospect, adds depth, but this is Smith’s offense to lead. His veteran savvy gives the Raiders the stability they’ve lacked.
Explosive Weapons: Bech, Thornton, and Beyond
The passing game gets a turbo boost with two 2025 draft steals: TCU wideout Jack Bech (second round, No. 58) and Tennessee burner Dont’e Thornton Jr. (fourth round, No. 108). Bech, a versatile 6’1”, 215-pound mismatch, can play receiver, slot, or even tight end, with soft hands and route-running polish. Thornton is a field-stretcher, blazing past defenders with 4.3-second speed and a knack for splash plays.
They join a stacked group of Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, Brock Bowers, and Michael Mayer. Meyers, fresh off a 1,000-yard season, is a rock-solid WR1. Tucker’s speed keeps secondaries honest, while Bowers, arguably the NFL’s top tight end, and Mayer, a budding star, create chaos for linebackers. This group’s versatility—receivers and tight ends who can line up anywhere—will give defensive coordinators nightmares.
Strengthening the Line
A great offense starts up front, and the Raiders doubled down with third-round picks Caleb Rogers (No. 98), a battle-tested guard, and Charles Grant (No. 99), a massive tackle with starting potential. Rogers’ experience and grit make him a plug-and-play option, while Grant’s size and athleticism bolster depth. Veteran Alex Cappa’s signing adds stability, though left tackle remains a question mark.
Spytek’s focus on the trenches ensures Smith has time to throw and Jeanty has room to run. The line isn’t perfect, but it’s leaps better than last year’s patchwork unit.
Chip Kelly’s Magic Touch
Enter Chip Kelly, the offensive mastermind whose up-tempo, run-heavy scheme is tailor-made for this roster. Kelly will unleash Jeanty’s talents, maximize Smith’s play-action throws, and exploit the flexibility of Bech, Bowers, and the receiving corps. His ability to scheme open targets and create big-play opportunities will elevate everyone. With Kelly pulling the strings, the Raiders’ offense will be fast, physical, and unpredictable.
Why the Raiders Will Soar
Last season’s offense was dismal, averaging just 18.2 points per game. But 2025 is a new era. Jeanty anchors a revitalized run game, Smith brings quarterback consistency, and Bech and Thornton add sizzle to a deep cast of pass-catchers. The offensive line’s upgrades provide a foundation, and Kelly’s system ties it together. This unit has the potential to climb into the NFL’s top half, a massive leap from 2024’s struggles.
The AFC West is brutal, but the Raiders’ revamped offense has the juice to compete. If Smith stays sharp and the line holds up, a wildcard push isn’t out of reach. Training camp will be a proving ground, but the pieces are in place for something special.
Raider Nation, it’s time to crank up the hype. The 2025 offense isn’t just improved—it’s a powder keg ready to erupt. With Jeanty bulldozing defenders, Smith airing it out, and a slew of weapons making plays, the Silver and Black are back in business. Let’s roll!
