The Las Vegas Raiders are aiming to flip the script in 2025—not just with a better record, but by making a serious push for the playoffs. Under the leadership of new head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek, the message has been clear from Day 1: this team isn’t waiting around to rebuild. It wants to win now.
That urgency has been reflected throughout the offseason. The Raiders were aggressive in both free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft, reinforcing a roster that underperformed during a frustrating 2024 campaign. The arrival of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and key additions like quarterback Geno Smith and running back Ashton Jeanty suggest a shift toward a more dynamic and creative offense.
Carroll’s track record speaks for itself—wherever he’s coached, success has followed. Paired with Spytek’s eye for talent, Las Vegas has laid a solid foundation for a turnaround.
Still, not everyone is buying the hype.
New-Look Las Vegas Raiders Face Doubts Despite Bold Offseason Moves
USA Today’s Ayrton Ostly recently projected a 6-11 finish for the Raiders in 2025, just two wins better than last season.
“We fully expect Las Vegas to take a step forward on both sides of the ball but especially on offense,” Ostly wrote. “Bringing in Smith and Jeanty as well as Kelly as the offensive coordinator should yield solid results; they should be better than 29th in the NFL in scoring this season.”
However, Ostly points to the steep climb ahead in a loaded AFC West, where all three division rivals made the playoffs last year. The Raiders also face a tough schedule, including road games against the Texans, Eagles, and Commanders due to the NFL’s rotation.
Bookmakers have similar expectations for the 2025 Raiders, setting their over-under win total at 6.5 wins.
Even with improvements on paper, Las Vegas still has to prove it can win games when it counts. The promise is there, but in 2025, results—not potential—will define the Raiders’ new era.