The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for an eventful 2025 season with heightened expectations under new leadership from general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll. Their offseason has already been marked by significant roster changes as the team moves on from several key players while focusing on acquiring fresh talent. With the Raiders winning just four games last season, a major overhaul of the squad was anticipated.
As of March 21, 2025, the Raiders have added seven new players to their roster, showcasing a commitment to bringing in high-impact athletes. New quarterback Geno Smith is stepping into the spotlight wearing No. 7, a number previously held by safety Tre'von Moehrig. This shift in numbers is part of a larger strategy as several players switch gears for the upcoming season.
Also making the transition are Kyle Phillips, who will don No. 15 after Gardner Minshew's exit, and Eric Stokes, who has claimed No. 22, the former number of Alexander Mattison. Lineman Alex Cappa will wear No. 65, taking over from Cody Whitehair, while Lonnie Johnson and Jeremy Chinn have selected Nos. 32 and 11, respectively.
Meanwhile, new running back Raheem Mostert has yet to finalize his number. Having worn No. 31 with the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins, it’s likely he may revert to this number since it’s available in the Raiders' current lineup.
Additionally, two players have chosen new numbers this year as well. Tre Tucker has chosen No. 1, while Tyreik McAllister will wear No. 13, signaling the shift in identity for the Raiders.
On top of these changes, speculation surrounds the Raiders' pursuit of Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens. Observers noted his social media activity—an Instagram post featuring Pickens alongside Tom Brady—which has sparked rumors about a potential trade. However, not all analysts are convinced this is a wise move. Raiders insider Mitchell Renz has come out strongly against trading for Pickens, who he describes as a "diva 'me' guy, saying, "The Raiders should NOT be interested in trading for the biggest diva 'me' guy in the NFL." Renz’s concern stems from Pickens's questionable attitude and the inconsistency he has shown on the field, suggesting that bringing him into their ranks could potentially derail the positive momentum the franchise is building under Brady's guidance.
While Pickens has not publicly requested to leave Pittsburgh, the uncertainty around his future remains, especially after the Steelers recently signed two-time Pro Bowler DK Metcalf. With his 2025 salary set at $3.656 million, the Steelers may consider trading Pickens given the shifts in his role and the looming possibility of a costly contract extension.
The Raiders currently find members of their wide receiver corps limited, eyeing only Tyler Lockett and Pickens as viable options. However, with no confirmed interest in pursuing Pickens beyond the social media buzz, the team's focus may lean towards the upcoming NFL draft, where they have nine picks that could be utilized towards discovering new talent.
Prospects like Tetairoa McMillan, Emeka Egbuka, and Evan Stewart present long-term solutions for the Raiders, given the track record of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly alongside Carroll, who have both shown the capacity to develop young athletes into impactful professional players.
The 2025 season is rapidly approaching, and as the Raiders navigate through roster changes and potential trades, only time will tell whether they will acquire a controversial player like Pickens or trust their draft strategy to fill the gaps in their offense.
