Silver And Black Pride
Big things could be in store for these Raiders this season
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to rely on a handful of young players at several key spots on the depth chart this fall, giving Las Vegas a few potential breakout candidates heading into the 2025 season. So, without using any rookies on the roster, which five Raiders are poised to take a major step forward during the upcoming campaign?
With only 66 catches for 870 yards and five touchdowns to date, Tucker hasn’t been that productive during his three NFL seasons. But last year’s box scores didn’t accurately reflect the growth as a route-runner that the Cincinnati product displayed, which was primarily due to subpar quarterback play.
With Geno Smith behind center, Tucker could resemble one of Smith’s top targets with the Seattle Seahawks, Tyler Lockett. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Tucker double his career production in year three.
Another member of the 2023 draft class, Mayer also has an underwhelming stat line so far: 48 catches, 460 yards and two touchdowns. Spending several weeks away from the team while dealing with a personal issue last year, obviously, plays a big factor in those numbers. So, getting that situation squared away is one reason he’s in line for a breakout season.
Also, new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has a history of getting two tight ends involved in the passing game and has already praised Mayer, calling him “outstanding” during OTAs. Kelly’s offense should help unlock the Notre Dame product as a run blocker too, giving him a good chance to break out despite being on the same team as Brock Bowers.
After rarely seeing the field defensively during his first two years in Las Vegas, Pola-Mao finally got significant playing time last season. He became a starter from Week 4 on, showing some promise that was highlighted by a 72.4 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus.
Now, the fourth-year pro enters training camp as a first-stringer for the first time in his career. And the Raiders are looking for a couple of safeties to step up after losing Tre’von Moehrig and Marcus Epps during free agency, creating a big opportunity for Pola-Mao to make a name for himself this fall.
Gainer is the biggest wildcard of all the players listed here. Last year, he went from being an undrafted free agent to a preseason standout who earned a roster spot, to a backup who rarely saw the field defensively (12 snaps, via PFF). There’s no shame in the latter, though, and Las Vegas’ thin linebacker corps creates an opportunity for him to have a big campaign.
The front office added Elandon Roberts, Germaine Pratt and Devin White during free agency to help replace last year’s starters, Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo. However, Roberts and Pratt are run defenders while White is best as an off-ball blitzer, leaving a void for a coverage linebacker. Gainer...
