Las Vegas Raiders 2025 Preseason Opener vs. Seahawks: What to Expect

Tonight, August 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM PT, the Las Vegas Raiders open their 2025 preseason against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field, marking the 20th preseason matchup between the two teams. Under new head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, the Raiders aim to rebound from a 4-13 season in 2024 and establish a fresh identity. This game offers fans a first look at a revamped roster, with the emotional return of Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith to Seattle, alongside young players battling for roster spots.

Pete Carroll and Geno Smith’s Seattle Homecoming

The game’s emotional core is the return of Pete Carroll and Geno Smith to Seattle. Carroll, who coached the Seahawks from 2010 to 2023, led them to a Super Bowl XLVIII title and 137 regular-season wins, making him the franchise’s most successful coach. Now guiding the Raiders after replacing Antonio Pierce, Carroll brings his high-energy, competition-driven philosophy, stating, “We’re going to play hard, play fast, and let our young guys show what they can do.” His return to Lumen Field, where he built the “Legion of Boom,” will likely earn a warm ovation from Seahawks fans, though his focus is on shaping the Raiders’ future.

Geno Smith, traded to the Raiders in March 2025 for a third-round pick, also faces his former home. After six seasons with the Seahawks (2019-2024), Smith transformed from a backup to a two-time Pro Bowler, earning the 2022 AP Comeback Player of the Year with 4,320 passing yards and 21 touchdowns last season. “Seattle’s where I grew as a player and a person,” Smith said, “but I’m here to compete and help the Raiders win.” His familiarity with the Seahawks’ system and Lumen Field’s atmosphere could provide an early edge in this preseason clash.

Playing Time for Starters

Carroll has signaled that the Raiders’ starters are “live” and “ready to go,” indicating they’ll see limited action, likely a drive or two, as is typical in preseason openers. Expect Smith to take a few snaps to showcase his command of Chip Kelly’s offense, which aims to improve on last season’s struggles (29th in scoring at 303.2 yards per game, last in rushing at 79.8 yards per game) with a focus on a strong run game and quick passing. Star tight end Brock Bowers, fresh off a 2024 season with 1,140 yards and 10 touchdowns, will likely see brief action, as will defensive end Maxx Crosby, a perennial All-Pro setting the defensive tone. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick, is expected to get a few carries to display his Heisman-caliber explosiveness. Carroll’s cautious approach will prioritize health, giving reserves and rookies most of the game to prove themselves.

Players on the Roster Bubble

The preseason is a proving ground for players fighting for a spot on the 53-man roster, and the Raiders have several names on the cusp. Rookie wide receiver Tommy Mellott is a key player to watch, bringing versatility as a potential slot receiver and special teams contributor. His performance tonight could secure his place in a receiving corps led by Jakobi Meyers, who posted his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Rookie quarterback Cam Miller, competing for the backup role behind Smith, offers dual-threat ability and could see significant second-half snaps to make his case.

On defense, rookie defensive tackles Tonka Hemingway and JJ Pegues are vying for rotational roles. Hemingway’s quickness and Pegues’ size (6’2”, 325 pounds) give them a chance to disrupt Seattle’s backup offensive line, potentially locking in their roster spots. Offensive lineman Caleb Rogers, a late-round pick, is battling for a swing tackle role, while practice squad guard-turned-center candidate Meredith faces a critical opportunity to prove his versatility. Carroll’s emphasis on youth, “I’m not hesitant to play young guys”, means these players will get ample reps, especially in the second half, to showcase their potential.

What to Expect from the Raiders

Under Chip Kelly, hired after leading Ohio State to a 2024 national championship, the Raiders’ offense will debut a simplified scheme blending Kelly’s run-heavy roots with quick passes to exploit Bowers and Meyers. Kelly’s $6 million annual deal, making him the NFL’s highest-paid coordinator, reflects the Raiders’ commitment to revitalizing their attack. Defensively, coordinator Patrick Graham, retained from 2024, will test pressures led by Crosby and linebacker Jamal Adams, another ex-Seahawk aiming to make an impact. The emotional weight of Carroll and Smith’s return will fuel early intensity, but the focus will be on young players like Jeanty, Mellott, Hemingway creativa, and Pegues. This opener is a chance for the Raiders to lay the foundation for a season of growth under Carroll and Kelly’s experienced leadership.