The Las Vegas Raiders are actively assessing their roster as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. With the team's 53-man roster currently established, there remains the possibility for changes as various players are released from other teams. The Raiders have identified wide receiver as a critical position to bolster, prompting them to bring in 16 players for workouts, including notable names like Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Valdes-Scantling, a former top-10 draft pick, began his career with the Green Bay Packers before moving to the Kansas City Chiefs, where he celebrated two Super Bowl victories. Last season, he also had brief stints with the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, and Pittsburgh Steelers, ultimately spending part of the offseason with the Dallas Cowboys before being released. Despite a disappointing season in which he recorded only 120 receiving yards, Valdes-Scantling has a history of being a productive player and could provide valuable depth to the Raiders' receiving corps.
His familiarity with Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak could play a significant role in his potential signing. Valdes-Scantling previously worked with Kubiak during the 2024 season with the New Orleans Saints, which may ease his transition into the Raiders' offensive scheme. If Kubiak believes Valdes-Scantling fits the team's needs, a contract could be on the horizon.
In addition to Valdes-Scantling, the Raiders also evaluated offensive lineman Evan Neal, a former seventh overall pick by the New York Giants. Neal's career has not yet met the expectations set during his time at Alabama, and he has struggled to find a consistent role in the NFL. After starting as a tackle, he was moved to guard but did not play at all last season. A fresh start with the Raiders might be beneficial for him, as he has the potential to provide depth on the offensive line, having started 27 games in his career.
The Raiders also took a look at linebacker brothers Azeez and B.J. Ojulari, indicating a desire to enhance their defensive depth behind established players like Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker. While it remains uncertain whether any of these players will be signed, the Raiders are wisely exploring options that could strengthen their roster for the season ahead.
General manager John Spytek is under pressure as he navigates his second opportunity to finalize a roster. The Raiders have a history of being impatient with their general managers, and while Kubiak is likely to receive a couple of years to implement his vision, Spytek may not have the same luxury if the team's performance falters. Nevertheless, Spytek expressed optimism about the roster he has assembled, stating, “We made a lot of hard choices, and we’ve got a long way to go, a lot of work to do with a young roster. But I think we’re all excited to go over the next week and a half and get a chance to play the Dolphins.”
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