BREAKING: Understand Five Las Vegas Raiders veterans will not survive Pete Carroll’s rebuild
With three weeks until the NFL’s legal tampering period begins, teams are already making roster adjustments, and the Las Vegas Raiders could soon follow suit.
Under new head coach Pete Carroll and first-time general manager John Spytek, the Raiders are expected to revamp their roster, particularly on offense. Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham remains in place, but upgrades in the secondary could still be on the horizon.
Here are five players who could be traded or released this offseason.
Center Andre James: Trade
Andre James may be on the move if the Raiders decide to slot Jackson Powers-Johnson into his natural position at center. Over six seasons, James has played nearly every snap at center, according to Pro Football Focus, limiting his versatility. With an $8.7 million cap hit, he would be an expensive backup. While his 2024 season was underwhelming, James could still attract interest from teams in need of an experienced starting center.
Cornerback Jack Jones: Trade
Jack Jones had an up-and-down 2024 season following a strong run under former head coach Antonio Pierce. While he led the Raiders with 16 pass breakups and three interceptions, he also struggled in coverage, allowing eight touchdowns. His year was further marked by disciplinary issues, including a Week 2 incident where he publicly criticized teammates for making “business decisions.”
Despite his inconsistencies, Jones’ playmaking ability could make him a trade asset, possibly netting an early Day 3 draft pick. His future in Las Vegas may hinge on whether the Raiders pursue a top-tier cornerback in free agency or select Will Johnson with the sixth overall pick.
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Quarterback Gardner Minshew: Cut
Gardner Minshew had a rough 2024 season as the Raiders’ primary starter, recording career lows with an 81.0 passer rating and 38.1 QBR while throwing nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
According to The Athletic’s Tashan Reed, the Raiders could designate Minshew as a post-June 1 cut, which would spread his $10.8 million in dead money across two seasons—$7.8 million in 2025 and $3 million in 2026. With Aidan O’Connell carrying just a $1.3 million cap hit, he presents a far more cost-effective backup option.
Running back Zamir White: Cut
Zamir White struggled in 2024 as part of the league’s worst rushing attack, losing his starting job after Week 4 and dealing with injuries in the second half of the season. He finished with just 213 yards from scrimmage, one touchdown, and two fumbles.
In contrast, Alexander Mattison (714 yards) and Ameer Abdullah (572 yards) were far more productive, each scoring five touchdowns. Given his injury-plagued season, White’s trade value is low, and he may have to compete for a roster spot heading into 2025.
Tight end Michael Mayer: Trade
Michael Mayer saw a reduced role in 2024 after missing six weeks due to personal issues, playing behind All-Pro rookie Brock Bowers. He finished the season with just 21 catches for 156 yards and no touchdowns.
While the Raiders could incorporate more two-tight-end sets to utilize both players, Mayer might attract interest from teams seeking to expand his role as a receiver. Despite the depth of the upcoming tight end draft class, he could still command a mid-round pick in trade discussions.