Most would agree that the Las Vegas Raiders have done a good job of rebuilding immediately and building a much stronger supporting cast for Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza than they did with Geno Smith last year.
While the offensive line has improved, questions remain at the pass-catcher position. Have the Raiders provided their new-look QB room with enough weapons?
Sports IllustratedEva Geitheim doesn’t think so, but she has a possible solution in mind. He believes the Raiders should try to sign free agent receiver Deebo Samuel.
“The Raiders haven’t invested any high picks in a receiver during this year’s draft, and need more help at the position. Deebo Samuel is no longer as explosive as he was at his peak, but he remained productive last season in Washington as he recorded 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns. New coach Clint Kubiak is familiar with Samuel, dating back to his time on the 49ers in 2023. “, making Las Vegas a perfect fit for the veteran wideout.”
SI’s Eva Geitheim on the Raiders signing Deebo Samuel
Samuel, a one-time All-Pro receiver, is still only 30 years old. While Samuel only recorded 727 receiving yards last season, that’s 31 more than any Raiders player in 2025.
He may not fit the profile of a No. 1 receiver, but there’s no doubt that Samuel could help provide a spark for the Raiders as a complement to Brock Bowers. The question is whether there is mutual interest in it.
Although Samuel has not been linked to another team, it is possible he would welcome the opportunity the Raiders could provide. The Raiders signed Jalen Naylor to a three-year, $35 million contract this offseason and expect him to be one of their premier pass-catchers. He will compete for targets with 2025 second-round pick Jack Beech, 2025 fourth-round pick Donte Thornton and Trey Tucker.
The Raiders may prefer to roll the dice on a young man they are developing into reliable playmakers. If that’s the case, they probably wouldn’t call up a veteran like Samuel. Still, if Las Vegas goes into camp and realizes their prospects aren’t quite ready for primetime, Samuel could be just what the Raiders need.
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