Raiders' top NFL free agency targets as 2025 offseason begins

The 2025 NFL offseason has officially begun. This is going to be a very crucial period for the Las Vegas Raiders. They will seek to overhaul their roster and redefine their identity. With significant gaps at multiple positions, the Raiders have a prime opportunity to utilize free agency to expedite their path back to relevance. Raider Nation is growing impatient. They demand a reversal of fortunes after consecutive disappointing campaigns. The months ahead will determine whether Las Vegas can rise to challenge the AFC West’s powerhouses or remain anchored at the division’s bottom.

A Season to Forget

The 2024 NFL season was nothing short of a nightmare for the Raiders. Ending with a dismal 4-13 record, the team fell far short of even the most tempered expectations. What started with cautious optimism quickly spiraled into a season marred by missed opportunities and subpar performances. Key injuries, erratic quarterback play, and a defense that struggled to compete at a league-average level all contributed to the team’s struggles. The most glaring issue, however, was at quarterback. With the Derek Carr era ending in 2023, neither Gardner Minshew nor Aidan O'Connell brought the consistency and leadership the franchise desperately needed. Heading into this offseason, addressing the quarterback position and reinforcing other critical areas of the roster are at the forefront of the team’s priorities.

For Raiders fans, there is a glimmer of hope. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the current roster, the team has significant cap space. With ample financial resources, the Raiders are poised to pursue multiple high-profile free agents to bolster their lineup.

Here we'll look at the players who should be among the Las Vegas Raiders' top NFL free agency targets as the 2025 offseason begins.

Defensive Cornerstone

The Raiders are in a prime position to pursue some of the top veteran talent available in free agency this offseason. With the 49ers extending Deommodore Lenoir during the season, it’s likely that Charvarius Ward will be seeking a new team. Adding a seasoned presence like Ward to the secondary could be exactly what the Raiders need. He can help bring cohesion and stability to a struggling defensive unit.

Last season, the Raiders’ young group of defensive backs surrendered 27 passing touchdowns. This highlighted the need for a proven leader in the secondary. Although Charvarius Ward is coming off a down year, his track record as a reliable cornerback is undeniable. The former San Francisco 49er has consistently demonstrated an ability to lock down elite receivers. He can thrive in both man and zone coverage. Ward’s physicality, play-reading skills, and knack for creating turnovers make him a perfect fit for the Raiders' defense.

A Game-Changer in the Backfield

Sure, upgrading the running back position isn’t the Raiders’ top priority. That said, signing Aaron Jones would be a move worth considering. In 2024, Jones posted solid numbers with the Minnesota Vikings. He tallied 1,138 rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground. That's along with 408 receiving yards and two touchdowns through the air.

Jones’ consistency and versatility make him one of the league’s most dependable players. With uncertainty surrounding the Raiders’ backfield, his ability to contribute as both a rusher and a pass-catcher would be invaluable. This is especially true with a rookie quarterback potentially leading the offense. Jones would not only provide a reliable ground attack. He would also serve as a safety valve for a young signal-caller. This would ease the transition for the Raiders’ next quarterback.

Bringing Hobbs Back Home

Retaining Nate Hobbs should be a top priority for the Raiders this offseason. The talented cornerback will see his rookie deal expire. In 2024, emerged as one of the league’s best slot defenders. With the modern NFL trending toward nickel-heavy defensive alignments, Hobbs’ ability to excel in the slot is more valuable than ever.

Hobbs has also expressed a desire to return to the Raiders. Bringing him back would stabilize a secondary that has often been pieced together with stopgap solutions. Pairing Hobbs with a potential acquisition like Ward would create a versatile and balanced defensive backfiel. They would surely be capable of countering a variety of offensive schemes. His intelligence, physicality, and familiarity with defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s system make Hobbs an ideal candidate to anchor the secondary moving forward.

Reinforcing the Offensive Line

The Raiders’ offensive line has been a weak link for far too long. Addressing this issue is critical to improving their offensive production. Targeting underrated left tackle Alaric Jackson could provide a much-needed boost. Jackson has been a reliable presence for the Los Angeles Rams. He allowed only three sacks in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus.

Jackson has developed into a starting-caliber left tackle with significant upside. At just 26 years old, he offers a combination of youth and experience. This aligns with the Raiders’ long-term plans. If Las Vegas can secure Jackson in free agency, they could finally stabilize the offensive line. He would immediately provide better protection for their quarterback -— an essential component of their rebuild.

Coaching and Management Changes

After a disappointing 4-13 season, the Raiders have parted ways with head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco. Owner Mark Davis, alongside minority owner Tom Brady, is leading the search for their replacements. Among the candidates for head coach are Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. Johnson, widely regarded as one of the brightest offensive minds in the league, has already completed a virtual interview. Meanwhile, Carroll can bring a wealth of experience and a winning pedigree to the table.

Securing the right head coach and general manager will be pivotal for the Raiders as they attempt to steer the franchise back on track. The organization’s leadership decisions this offseason could define their future for years to come, making these hires as crucial as any player acquisition.

Looking Ahead

The Raiders have significant work ahead of them as they enter the 2025 offseason, but the pieces are there to spark a turnaround. From pursuing top-tier free agents like Charvarius Ward and Alaric Jackson to re-signing key contributors like Nate Hobbs, Las Vegas has the resources to address its most pressing needs. Adding Aaron Jones could provide the offense with another weapon, while smart coaching hires could set the foundation for long-term success. Raider Nation is ready for a new chapter, and this offseason presents a golden opportunity to deliver it.