Las Vegas Raiders 2025 Training Camp Scrimmage: Highlights, Lowlights, and Standouts
On Saturday, August 2, 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders took their 2025 NFL Training Camp to Allegiant Stadium for an electrifying intrasquad scrimmage, offering fans a glimpse of the revamped Silver and Black under new head coach Pete Carroll. The mock game, held in front of an enthusiastic Raider Nation, showcased the team’s progress, potential, and areas needing polish as they gear up for the 2025 season. With a new regime, a bolstered roster, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Raiders displayed moments of brilliance alongside some growing pains. Below is a detailed breakdown of the highlights, lowlights, and standout performers from the scrimmage, drawing from reports and observations shared across various platforms.
Highlights
Geno Smith’s Precision in the Pocket
One of the standout performances came from quarterback Geno Smith, who demonstrated why the Raiders brought him in to lead their offense. Smith was razor-sharp, orchestrating three scoring drives, two of which culminated in touchdown passes to All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers in the red zone. His ability to read defenses and deliver accurate throws under pressure highlighted his veteran poise and chemistry with key playmakers. Smith’s performance reaffirmed the team’s confidence in his ability to steer the new-look offense, which is being shaped by offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to maximize explosive plays. His command of the huddle and quick decision-making were a promising sign for a team looking to turn things around after years of inconsistency.
Maxx Crosby’s Defensive Dominance
Defensive end Maxx Crosby stole the show with a play that electrified the crowd and underscored his status as one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers. In a defining moment, Crosby stormed through the offensive line, stripped the ball from backup quarterback Aidan O’Connell, and raced down the field for a touchdown. Dubbed “Strip six by the Condor” by the Raiders’ official X account, this play showcased Crosby’s relentless motor and game-changing ability. His performance was a reminder of why the Raiders extended his contract early, avoiding a potential holdout situation like those seen with other star defenders league-wide. Crosby’s presence sets the tone for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s aggressive unit.
Devin White’s Resurgence
Linebacker Devin White, a former fifth-overall pick whose production had dipped in recent years, looked revitalized under Carroll’s guidance. White intercepted a pass from Geno Smith near the sideline during a team period and later nearly sacked the quarterback, though tackling was prohibited. His speed and instincts were on full display, prompting Carroll to declare, “He’s back.” White’s performance suggests he could reclaim his All-Pro form, bolstering a linebacker corps that Carroll has praised for its versatility and depth. With linebackers coach John Glenn facing tough decisions at the position, White’s emergence could solidify his role as a defensive anchorOffensive Line Progress
The Raiders’ offensive line, a point of concern in recent seasons, showed encouraging signs of cohesion. Left tackle Kolton Miller, recently signed to an extension, anchored the unit, providing stability on the blindside. The team’s decision to lock up Miller long-term paid dividends, as he held firm against a fierce pass rush. Meanwhile, the interior line saw competition, with Jordan Meredith taking first-team reps at center over Jackson Powers-Johnson, who slid to right guard. This shuffle indicates the coaching staff’s willingness to experiment to find the optimal combination, a positive step toward protecting Smith and opening lanes for the running game.
Lowlights
Lonnie Johnson Jr.’s Injury
A significant lowlight was the injury to safety Lonnie Johnson Jr., who was carted off the field after colliding with Crosby while attempting to tackle running back Raheem Mostert. Johnson, who signed a one-year deal this offseason, suffered a broken fibula, confirmed by an MRI, which could sideline him for a significant portion of the season. His absence is a blow to the secondary, where he was projected as a backup but had earned first-team reps in three-safety sets alongside Jeremy Chinn. The injury underscores the Raiders’ need for depth in the defensive backfield, especially with other cornerbacks vying for starting roles.
Offensive Line Uncertainty
While the offensive line showed promise, the ongoing battle at center and right guard revealed some inconsistencies. Jordan Meredith’s deployment at center over Jackson Powers-Johnson, a highly touted rookie, raised eyebrows and suggested the coaching staff might be dissatisfied with Powers-Johnson’s early camp performance. Alex Cappa, another contender for right guard, was relegated to second-team reps, indicating the line is still a work in progress. This shuffling could lead to growing pains as the unit gels, particularly against formidable defensive fronts in the regular season.
Defensive Absences
The scrimmage was marred by the absence of key defensive players. Defensive tackle Adam Butler exited practice early with trainers, and defensive end Tyree Wilson was sidelined for much of the team period. While neither absence was detailed as severe, their limited participation raised concerns about the defensive line’s depth and readiness. Wilson, a former first-round pick expected to break out in 2025, needs to stay healthy to fulfill his potential. The Raiders’ ability to manage injuries will be critical, as even talented rosters can be derailed by health setbacks.
Observations and Standouts
Emerging Cornerback Battle
The secondary featured a spirited competition at cornerback, with Eric Stokes and Decamerion Richardson starting on the outside. Newly signed JT Woods also impressed, earning first-team snaps and showing promise as a versatile defender. Darien Porter, who got the first nod opposite Stokes, and Jakorian Bennett, primarily with the reserves, are also in the mix. This depth and competition suggest the Raiders are prioritizing flexibility in Patrick Graham’s defensive scheme, which emphasizes communication and adaptability.
Running Back Depth
The Raiders’ running back room, bolstered by rookie Ashton Jeanty, showed depth with Zamir White and Sincere McCormick contributing in camp. White, in particular, earned praise from Carroll for his solid performance, indicating he remains a key part of the rotation despite Jeanty’s arrival. Raheem Mostert’s return after the birth of his child added veteran presence, though his collision with Johnson was unfortunate. The backfield’s versatility could be a strength as the season progresses.
Brock Bowers’ Red-Zone Prowess
Though Bowers sat out parts of the scrimmage, his two touchdown catches from Smith in the red zone were a highlight. His ability to exploit mismatches and make contested catches reinforces his role as a centerpiece of the passing game. Chip Kelly’s utilization of Bowers and Michael Mayer in red-zone packages could make the Raiders’ offense a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Final Thoughts
The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2025 training camp scrimmage was a microcosm of their potential and challenges. Geno Smith’s efficiency, Maxx Crosby’s dominance, and Devin White’s resurgence were bright spots, signaling that Pete Carroll’s new regime is instilling a winning culture. However, injuries to players like Lonnie Johnson Jr. and uncertainty along the offensive line highlight areas that need attention before the season opener against the New England Patriots on September 7. With a talented roster and a coaching staff unafraid to tinker, the Raiders are poised to make waves in 2025, but consistency and health will be key.