April Will Set the Foundation for the Raiders’ Future
April 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal month for the Las Vegas Raiders as they kick off their offseason program and prepare for the NFL Draft, reinforced by the recent contract extension of quarterback Geno Smith. With new head coach Pete Carroll at the helm and a revitalized sense of purpose, the Silver and Black are set to hit the ground running, starting with their first official workout on April 8th.
The offseason program begins with Phase One, a two-week period focused on meetings, strength training, and conditioning. This initial phase is critical for integrating Smith, acquired from the Seattle Seahawks in a trade last month and now locked in with a two-year, $85.5 million extension, into the Raiders’ system. Reuniting with Carroll, under whom he thrived in Seattle, Smith brings stability and a proven arm to a quarterback room that struggled mightily in 2024. These early workouts will allow offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to start tailoring the playbook to Smith’s strengths, setting the tone for a competitive 2025 campaign.
From April 21st to 23rd, the Raiders will hold their voluntary minicamp, offering the first on-field glimpse of the team’s revamped roster. This three-day session will feature individual and group drills, giving Smith and key playmakers like tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers a chance to build chemistry. While voluntary, expect high attendance as players buy into Carroll’s “win now” philosophy, especially with the AFC West’s fierce competition looming.
The month caps off with the 2025 NFL Draft, held April 24th-26th in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Despite securing Smith, the Raiders, holding the No. 6 pick, remain open to drafting a quarterback for the future or bolstering other needs like wide receiver, running back, or offensive line. General manager John Spytek has emphasized a best-player-available approach, and with additional picks like No. 37 and No. 68, Las Vegas has flexibility to address multiple gaps.
April marks the Raiders’ transition from offseason planning to action. With Smith’s extension signaling intent, the workouts and draft will lay the foundation for a team determined to climb out of the AFC West basement and contend in 2025.