​The Las Vegas Raiders are about to begin training camp within the next month, and as they prepare for what promises to be an intriguing 2026 season, a handful of players and specific position groups could determine the trajectory of their year. The club added a substantial amount of talent this offseason, and predictably the roster will feature starters returning at only a handful of offensive spots—left and right tackle, tight end, running back, and one wide receiver. On defense, expect the Raiders to bring back three starters along the defensive line, one safety, one corner, and none at linebacker. In short, the Raiders are undergoing a significant talent infusion, a move that was essential for a franchise that had been starved of young, dynamic contributors in recent years.
I’ve already broken down the defense, and that analysis should be live as you read this, though if it isn’t, it will be soon. I’ve also examined the special teams, highlighting how those units could shape the season.
On the offense, Jeanty faced challenges in 2025, largely as a byproduct of the struggling offensive line, though his own issues didn’t help. He was a capable pass protector, but to be a true focal point of the passing game, he’ll need to elevate his protection when used as a blocker on blitzes or in pass protection rather than remaining a liability. Jeanty will line up behind what should be a much improved offensive line in 2026, with better coaching and a more cohesive offensive system. If Jeanty can recapture the form he showed at times during his rookie season—most notably in games against the Bears—he possesses the ability to add a dynamic element to the Raiders’ offense. Should he perform at the level many, myself included, believed he could reach out of Boise State, the Raiders can ease the pressure on the passing game and lean more on the ground attack.
In the passing game, Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton are positioned for pivotal roles, but opportunities will not be handed to them. The Raiders also have Jalen Nailor and Tre Tucker, both expected to play critical roles in the offense, contributing in the intermediate and short areas while still benefiting from opportunities downfield. The offense will also rely heavily on Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers, but there will still be ample targets for Thornton and Bech. Bech showed flashes during camp, bringing the potential to line up in the slot or as an X/Z receiver. While he flashed promise in his rookie year, Bech struggled with consistency and lacked an immediate burst off the line, though he did show capability in yards after catch scenarios. Thornton, with his ideal size, speed, and athleticism, has the potential to become a game-changing piece, though he faced issues with route concepts, drops, and winning contested throws in his rookie campaign at 6’5, 220 pounds. The Raiders will need their high draft picks to elevate their level of play to help drive the offense forward.
As the Raiders push through this new era with a reshaped roster, the tasks ahead for the coaching staff are clear: optimize the passing game by leveraging Bech, Thornton, Nailor, and Tucker while betting on Jeanty to emerge as a consistent, multi-dimensional threat. The implications for a successful 2026 campaign hinge on those players delivering at a high level, supported by improved line play and a cohesive system that can maximize their talents.