Las Vegas Raiders 2025 Training Camp: A Week of Intensity, New Beginnings, and Off-Field Drama

The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off their 2025 training camp at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada, with a palpable sense of renewal and determination. Under the leadership of new head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek, the Silver and Black embarked on a journey to redefine their identity and set the tone for a competitive season in the loaded AFC West. The first week of camp, spanning July 23 to July 28, 2025, was marked by high-energy practices, standout performances, and a significant off-field controversy involving star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Through highlights, player and staff interviews, and the unfolding drama, the Raiders’ first week of camp provided a glimpse into a franchise focused on the future.

On-Field Highlights: Pads On, Intensity Up

The Raiders wasted no time setting a physical tone, with the first four practices building anticipation for the fifth, when pads finally came on. The team’s energy was evident from Day 1, as players hit the field early to beat the Nevada heat. Head Coach Pete Carroll, known for his infectious enthusiasm, set lofty expectations: “Oh, we are going to win a ton,” he declared before camp began. “I can’t even imagine anything else.” His confidence, backed by a resume that includes a Super Bowl and a national championship, infused the roster.

Quarterback Geno Smith, reunited with Carroll from their Seattle days, was a standout. On Sunday, July 27, Smith showcased his arm strength, connecting with second-year tight end Brock Bowers for a pinpoint touchdown pass in the red zone, drawing gasps from the crowd. He later threw a deep touchdown to wide receiver Tre Tucker, who used his blazing speed to outrun the secondary. Smith also found rookie wideout Dont’e Thornton Jr. for an impressive sideline catch, highlighting the young receiver’s footwork. “It felt great to be back on the field, not just with Coach but with all the guys,” Smith said post-practice, emphasizing the chemistry building within the offense.

Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as a focal point. His professionalism and work ethic drew comparisons to former Buccaneers wideout Chris Godwin, with Jeanty settling into a routine that included buying a house and integrating into the Las Vegas community. On the field, he displayed burst and vision, earning praise from Carroll: “When they step on that practice field, they’re going to give us everything they got.” Jeanty’s role as the undisputed starting running back signals a shift from the Josh Jacobs era, with the rookie poised to anchor the offense.

The defense also showed promise, particularly in the secondary. Cornerbacks Eric Stokes and rookie Darien Porter impressed with sticky coverage, while Decamerion Richardson sealed a team period with an interception off Smith in the end zone. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham noted the group’s length and speed, saying, “It’s a space game in this league, and the receivers just keep getting better.” The addition of linebackers Germaine Pratt and Elandon Roberts, along with safety-turned-linebacker Jamal Adams, bolstered the unit’s versatility. Adams, embracing his new “joker” role, said, “It’s nothing foreign to me. I’m here to make plays.”

However, the offense struggled at times, particularly the wide receivers outside of Jakobi Meyers. The group failed to create consistent separation, a concern as the Raiders aim to improve a unit that ranked 27th in total offense in 2024. Carroll remained optimistic, noting, “We’ll get to the physicality part in terms of seeing who’s going to be able to support the run.”

Player and Staff Interviews: Building a Culture

Interviews with players and staff underscored the cultural shift under Carroll and Spytek. Defensive end Maxx Crosby, the team’s heart and soul, emphasized consistency: “The most important thing for us is continuing to further that culture, that consistency on a daily basis as a unit.” He praised Carroll’s leadership, calling him “incredible so far.” Crosby’s bond with second-year offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson also stood out, with the two described as inseparable, arriving early and staying late to hone their craft. Powers-Johnson, showing newfound maturity, credited Crosby’s mentorship: “He’s the standard.”

Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, tasked with reviving a stagnant offense, highlighted the potential of his young playmakers. “Brock Bowers, Ashton Jeanty, these guys are hungry,” Kelly said during a July 24 press conference. “We’re building something special.” Tight end Michael Mayer echoed the sentiment, noting the offense’s growing cohesion: “Geno’s throws leave us in awe sometimes. It’s exciting to be part of this.”

Carroll’s influence was a recurring theme. “Our first team meeting was jacked up, and guys were losing their minds in there,” Smith said, reflecting on the coach’s ability to galvanize the roster. Carroll’s philosophy of treating every practice as an opportunity resonated, with players like rookie wideout Jack Bech, who caught a touchdown from backup quarterback Aidan O’Connell, embracing the intensity. “It’s about making the most of every rep,” Bech said.

Off-Field Drama: The Christian Wilkins Saga

The week’s biggest story was the shocking release of defensive tackle Christian Wilkins on July 24, just days after he was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Wilkins, signed to a four-year, $110 million contract in 2024, suffered a Jones fracture in Week 5 of the previous season, limiting him to five games. Despite expectations of a return for 2025, his recovery stalled, with the Raiders insisting he needed a second surgery, a procedure Wilkins declined. The team voided $35.2 million in guaranteed money on June 4, citing a lack of a “clear path or plan for future return to play.” Wilkins filed a grievance with the NFLPA, and a hearing is pending.

Adding intrigue, reports surfaced of an incident involving Wilkins playfully kissing a teammate on the forehead, with the teammate taking offense. While not the primary reason for his release, it reportedly contributed to the Raiders’ decision, highlighting tensions beyond the injury dispute. “Some league sources believe an incident involving a teammate may have factored in-part,” wrote Josina Anderson, though specifics remain unclear.

The Raiders moved quickly to address the void, claiming former Chiefs and Titans defensive tackle Keondre Coburn off waivers. However, replacing Wilkins’ production, 17 tackles and two sacks in five games, will be a challenge. Crosby expressed confidence in the defensive line, saying, “I trust those guys. They’re going to be ready.” The team will rely on a committee approach, with Leki Fotu, Tyree Wilson, Zach Carter, and rookies Tonka Hemingway and JJ Pegues stepping up.

Looking Ahead

The Raiders’ first week of training camp was a microcosm of their 2025 aspirations: high energy, emerging talent, and a no-nonsense approach to roster decisions. Carroll and Spytek’s swift handling of the Wilkins situation sent a clear message: commitment is non-negotiable. As the team prepares for an open practice at Allegiant Stadium on August 2 and their preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks on August 7, the focus remains on building chemistry and physicality. With standout performances from Smith, Jeanty, and the secondary, and a culture driven by Carroll’s relentless optimism, the Raiders are laying the groundwork for a season that could defy their recent history of mediocrity.

As Kolton Miller put it, “We don’t really have control of [the drama]. The best you can do is just move on and stay focused.” With pads now on and the season approaching, the Raiders are doing just that, ready to prove they can “win a ton.”