As the 2024-25 NFL season approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in a familiar position as long shots to make a significant impact. With current Super Bowl betting odds placing them at +6000, oddsmakers do not view the Raiders as severe contenders. The over/under for their win total is a modest 6.5 games, reflecting the challenging road ahead for a team that has struggled to find consistency in recent years.
Despite these unfavorable projections, the Raiders have an opportunity to reshape their roster and potentially improve their playoff chances through strategic trades. The quarterback position is one area where the team could look to make a splash. While Gardner Minshew was brought in on a two-year deal, questions remain about whether he represents a significant upgrade over Aidan O’Connell. The Raiders could explore trade options for a more established quarterback to elevate their offense and provide stability at the most critical position.
Offensive Help
Another potential trade target could be an elite wide receiver to complement the existing offensive weapons. With the departure of Hunter Renfrow, the Raiders could benefit from adding a dynamic playmaker to stretch the field and create opportunities for the running game. A trade for a top-tier receiver would be a sweet bonanza and could immediately boost the offense and help the team compete in the tough AFC West division.
Defense
On the defensive side, the Raiders invested significantly in Christian Wilkins to bolster their defensive line. However, they could still look to add depth and talent to their secondary through trades. A ball-hawking safety or shutdown cornerback could dramatically improve their pass defense, which is crucial in a division featuring Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert.
While the Raiders have made some notable free agent signings, including Alexander Mattison at running back, their current roster still leaves them as outsiders in the playoff race. A well-executed trade could be the catalyst needed to push them over the edge and into contention. The front office must be aggressive and creative, potentially leveraging future draft picks or current players to acquire the talent necessary to compete at a higher level.
The Raiders face an uphill battle to make the playoffs in the competitive AFC. However, a strategic trade or two could significantly alter their trajectory. By addressing critical positions of need and adding impact players, the Raiders could outperform their current odds and surprise the NFL landscape. While it’s a risky proposition, the potential rewards of making the right moves could be substantial for a franchise eager to return to postseason relevance.
