Raiders’ revamped offense faces skepticism despite major upgrades
The Las Vegas Raiders have made significant moves to transform their offense after a dismal 2024 campaign, but national analysts remain unconvinced the Silver and Black will see immediate improvement in 2025.
Major offseason additions aim to spark turnaround
Following a season where they ranked 29th in total offense and averaged just 18.2 points per game, the Raiders have invested heavily in offensive upgrades. The team hired Chip Kelly as the NFL’s highest-paid offensive coordinator, traded for veteran quarterback Geno Smith, and used the sixth overall draft pick on Boise State running back sensation Ashton Jeanty.
Kelly’s offensive philosophy has thoroughly evolved since his last stint in the league. Instead of relying on tempo to create advantages, he’s shown the ability to scheme up a diverse run game and set up explosives off play action.
Smith, who threw for a career-high 4,320 yards with Seattle in 2024, brings stability to a quarterback room that cycled through Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell, and Desmond Ridder last season. The 34-year-old veteran has already impressed with his approach to Kelly’s system.
“We’re looking to be explosive and efficient,” Smith said about the offensive plans during OTAs.
National rankings show little faith in quick turnaround
Despite these additions, Pro Football Network ranked the Raiders’ offense 29th heading into 2025, essentially unchanged from their 2024 finish. The Las Vegas Raiders have gotten a little bit of subtle steam this offseason, but we really have no evidence that they are trending in the right direction.
The skepticism extends beyond just the overall offensive rankings. PFF placed the Raiders’ offensive line at 18th, while Pro Football Network ranked it even lower. The unit allowed 50 sacks last season (seventh-most in the NFL) and struggled particularly in run blocking, finishing 31st in rushing attempts per game.
Building around Brock Bowers provides hope
The offense’s foundation centers on tight end Brock Bowers, who had a stellar rookie season despite the team’s struggles. With improved quarterback play and a more dynamic offensive system, Bowers could see his five touchdown total from 2024 increase significantly.
Kelly has been working closely with Smith to incorporate concepts from the quarterback’s previous systems, showing flexibility in his approach. “Geno is a football guy, like Geno loves ball,” Kelly said. “We’ll talk on a Tuesday night about what transpired that day, ‘How do you see this?'”
The addition of Jeanty, fresh off rushing for over 2,400 yards at Boise State, gives the Raiders a potential game-changing element in the backfield alongside veteran Raheem Mostert.
The verdict: Show-me mode
While The Athletic listed the Raiders among offseason winners and fantasy analysts project breakout seasons for several players, the consensus remains clear: Las Vegas must prove it on the field before earning respect.
The Raiders have addressed their biggest weaknesses with quality additions, but transforming from one of the league’s worst offenses to a competitive unit typically doesn’t happen overnight. With new leadership under 73-year-old head coach Pete Carroll and a revamped offensive approach, the 2025 season represents a crucial test for whether these changes can translate into tangible improvement.
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Category: Sports
Subcategory: Raiders News
Date: 08/01/2025
