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The Raiders will kick off training camp July 23 in Henderson. That makes this a perfect time to take a position-by-position look at the club’s roster.

The Las Vegas Raiders are set to kick off training camp on July 23 in Henderson, Nevada, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. After another season of missed playoffs and internal resets, the Silver and Black enter 2025 with a fresh blend of familiar names, high-upside youth, and coaching continuity under Antonio Pierce. As the desert heat intensifies, so does the competition—every snap at camp could shape the roster and redefine this team’s trajectory.

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the Raiders heading into training camp:

Quarterbacks: Aidan O’Connell vs. Gardner Minshew—Let the Battle Begin

The Raiders’ quarterback room is set for a fierce battle. Second-year man Aidan O’Connell showed poise and promise in 2024, but Gardner Minshew, the savvy veteran who led the Colts to a surprise playoff berth, was brought in for a reason: competition. The Raiders haven’t committed to a long-term QB solution yet, but whoever comes out on top in Henderson will have the keys to a high-ceiling offense.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Does O’Connell make the Year 2 leap or does Minshew Magic steal the job?

Running Backs: Replacing a Legend

With Josh Jacobs now in Green Bay, the Raiders’ backfield enters a new era. Zamir White flashed potential late last season, and newly acquired Alexander Mattison brings experience. Don’t sleep on rookie Dylan Laube, either—a pass-catching specialist who could carve out a unique role.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Can White handle the full load, or will it be a true committee?

Wide Receivers: Adams Leads, But Who Follows?

Davante Adams remains one of the NFL’s elite, but the supporting cast needs to step up. Jakobi Meyers quietly had a strong 2024 campaign, while third-round rookie Jermaine Burton brings speed and swagger. Hunter Renfrow’s future remains uncertain amid trade rumors.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Will Burton earn immediate reps, or is Renfrow poised for a rebound?

Tight Ends: Mayer Mania Incoming

Michael Mayer enters Year 2 with major expectations after a solid rookie season. Veteran Austin Hooper provides depth and leadership, but this is Mayer’s room now. Look for the Raiders to feature more two-tight end sets in red zone and short-yardage situations.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Can Mayer make the leap into the upper tier of NFL tight ends?

Offensive Line: Stability, Finally?

After years of shuffling, the Raiders may finally have found some stability. Kolton Miller remains a top-tier left tackle, while rookie DJ Glaze could push for time at right tackle. Dylan Parham and Andre James anchor the interior, but depth is thin.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Who wins the right tackle job, and can the line protect long enough to unlock deep shots?

Defensive Line: Mad Maxx and the Young Guns

Maxx Crosby is the heart and soul of this defense—and perhaps the entire team. Tyree Wilson, last year’s first-round pick, must take a big step forward. The addition of Christian Wilkins from Miami gives the Raiders a game-wrecker on the interior.

Camp Storyline to Watch: How dominant can the Wilkins-Crosby duo be?

Linebackers: Fast, Physical, and Finally Deep

Under Antonio Pierce, a former linebacker himself, this group has gotten faster and nastier. Divine Deablo leads the charge, while free-agent addition Blake Martinez adds toughness and IQ. Rookie Tommy Eichenberg could be a steal and make noise quickly.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Who becomes the QB of the defense?

Secondary: Youth Movement in Full Effect

The Raiders have invested heavily in the secondary. Nate Hobbs is now the veteran of the group, and he’ll be counted on to lead a talented but unproven unit. Second-year safety Chris Smith and rookie corner Decamerion Richardson bring energy, while Tre’von Moehrig needs a bounce-back season.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Can this group generate takeaways and lock down elite receivers in the AFC West?

Special Teams: Underrated, but Solid

Kicker Daniel Carlson remains automatic, and punter AJ Cole is a weapon. The return game is up for grabs, with Tre Tucker and Laube among the favorites to emerge.

Camp Storyline to Watch: Who will replace DeAndre Carter as the full-time returner?

Final Thoughts: Training Camp Will Define This Team

The Raiders aren’t expected by many to contend in the AFC this year, but don’t tell that to Antonio Pierce or Maxx Crosby. With a chip on their shoulder and talent quietly stacked across the board, this camp isn’t just about filling out the depth chart—it’s about setting a new tone.

From quarterback competitions to defensive dominance and everything in between, training camp in Henderson could be where the Raiders begin to rewrite their narrative.

One thing is certain: Come July 23, the battle in the desert begins—and every position matters.

 

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