Sportsnaut
In the coming days and weeks, teams will make post-June 1 cuts and trades for more cap savings on players who have fallen out of favor. The Las Vegas Raiders should look for help at linebacker and cornerback to compete with unproven players and older veterans on one-year deals.
Over the past couple of weeks, the Raiders have been able to evaluate how certain players fit in offensive and defensive systems during organized team activities (OTAs). They have 88 players on the roster, leaving room for a few additions.
With $36.2 million in cap space, Las Vegas can make a significant move before training camp.
Let’s look at three realistic trades the Raiders can make to address their most significant roster needs.
Las Vegas Raiders receive: Cornerback Jalen Ramsey
Miami Dolphins receive: 2026 fourth-round pick
Ramsey is the top post-June 1 trade candidate. He confirmed reports that his time in Miami is over.
For the record btw, i’ve loved every city i’ve played in & the fans who supported! the anger is very misplaced at times but sometimes valid too 😂 but real ones kno the intentions always solid! …
a new chapter awaits
— Jalen Ramsey (@jalenramsey) May 28, 2025
Since teams know that the Dolphins and Ramsey are set to part ways, the three-time All-Pro cornerback may not fetch more than a fourth- or fifth-round pick. If Miami takes a Day 3 pick for its top cornerback, general manager Tom Telesco should make an offer.
The Raiders have a young cornerback room that includes Jakorian Bennett, Decamerion Richardson and rookie Darien Porter. The Athletic’s Tashan Reed noted that Bennett has lined up with the second-team defense while returning from a season-ending shoulder injury at OTAs.
Ramsey would immediately improve the Raiders pass defense as a starter on the boundary who can also line up in the slot. In 2024, he didn’t make the AFC Pro Bowl roster but still logged 11 pass breakups and two interceptions while allowing an 83.2 passer rating in coverage.
Las Vegas Raiders receive: Linebacker Jahlani Tavai
New England Patriots receive: 2026 sixth-round pick
The Raiders tried to acquire Patriots linebacker Christian Elliss, but New England matched their offer sheet to retain him. Las Vegas can make another attempt to pry a linebacker from the Patriots.
Over the last two years, Tavai has made some plays in pass coverage, recording three interceptions and 10 pass breakups since 2023. He hasn’t allowed more than one touchdown reception in a single season since 2020.
Tavai still has room for improvement in pass coverage, though he’s more equipped to handle those assignments than Elandon Roberts and Devin White.
Also, Tavai led the Patriots in tackles (115) last season by a wide margin and registered seven tackles for loss. Boston.com’s Colin McCarthy listed him as a cut candidate because the Patriots added Robert Spillane...
