Silver And Black Pride
What are the realistic best- and worst-case scenarios for the 11 drafted rookies?
Now that the courtship is over and the Las Vegas Raiders’ 2025 NFL Draft class is in the building, it’s time to determine each of the 11 rookies’ expectations during their first season. So, what is the ceiling and floor for each draft pick in year one?
Ceiling: Offensive Rookie of the Year
The Raiders have only had one AP OROY in franchise history, Marcus Allen in 1982. Jeanty, who will be looking to follow in the franchise rushing leader’s footsteps, has a chance to be the second as he’s currently the favorite to win the award, per FanDuel Sportsbook. While that’s a lofty goal, the Boise State product should get plenty of touches to put up some impressive numbers in year one.
Floor: Leads team in rushing
The floor is pretty high for Jeanty’s rookie season since he will be the team’s top back heading into training camp. Barring an injury, there’s no reason why he can’t at least lead Las Vegas in rushing yards this year.
Ceiling: Become No. 2 pass-catcher
Bech is currently projected to be a starter opposite Jakobi Meyers out wide. But the second-round pick has a chance to unseat Meyers as the offense’s second option in the passing game. While that’s an uphill battle, it is the ideal situation for the team long-term, seeing as the veteran is entering a contract year. However, becoming the No. 1 over Brock Bowers is unrealistic.
Floor: Fall to WR3
Tre Tucker and the rookie will be battling it out for the Raiders’ WR2 distinction during training camp. Granted, they have different skill sets with Tucker being a deep threat and Bech a possession receiver, but Tucker’s role could expand in his third season to take targets away from the TCU product.
Ceiling: Become CB1
It will be an open competition in Las Vegas for the defense’s top cornerback spot, and Porter has elite traits to potentially earn that honor. If he’s a quick learner and can improve his technique during training camp, the third-round pick could be on a fast track to becoming the team’s best defensive back.
Floor: Only contribute on special teams
On the other end of the spectrum, there is a world where Porter needs more time to develop before he can contribute on defense. However, he’s already talked about playing special teams and should offer value in that department, at the least.
Ceiling: Win a starting guard spot
Like cornerback, the Silver and Black have an open competition on the interior of the offensive line. While Jackson Powers-Johnson, Dylan Parham, Jordan Meredith and Alex Cappa are the favorites to earn the three starting spots, there is room for Rogers to crash the party and start as a rookie.
Floor: Backup duties
The Raiders need depth in the trenches, so the Texas Tech product will likely dress for every...
