As the 2027 NFL offseason looms on the horizon, the Las Vegas Raiders are already mapping out their future roster moves. Free agency officially kicks off on March 10, with the negotiation window opening three days earlier. While it feels like a lifetime away, it's never too early to peek at which players could be testing the market—and what that means for the Silver and Black.
For Raiders fans, this is a chance to think ahead about potential extensions, roster shake-ups, and the players who might don a different uniform. But before diving into the names, let's break down the key free agent categories so you can follow along like a pro.
Understanding the Free Agent Lingo
- Accrued Season: A player is on the roster for six or more regular-season games.
- UFA (Unrestricted Free Agent): Four or more accrued seasons; can sign with any team.
- RFA (Restricted Free Agent): Three accrued seasons; can negotiate with any team, but the Raiders can match any offer or tender a contract. Compensation tiers include:
- First-Round Tender: One year, $8.1 million. If not matched, the new team sends a first-round pick.
- Second-Round Tender: One year, $5.8 million; compensation is a second-round pick.
- Original Round Tender: One year, $3.67 million; compensation equals the round the player was originally drafted (undrafted free agents yield no pick).
- Right of First Refusal: One year, $3.54 million; the Raiders can match any offer, but if they decline, no compensation is owed.
- ERFA (Exclusive Rights Free Agent): Two or fewer accrued seasons; the Raiders can offer a one-year, league-minimum deal, and the player must sign or sit out the year.
Key Notes for Raiders Fans
- Players on the practice squad can sign a Reserve/Futures contract—a one-year, league-minimum deal for the next season. Expect many of these players to be off the roster by 2027.
- While not a pending UFA, Kirk Cousins is a name to watch. A poison pill in his contract guarantees $80 million for the 2027-2028 seasons, all but ensuring his release.
Compensatory Draft Picks
Compensatory picks are awarded based on a player's 2026 playtime. Here's what the Raiders might expect:
- Seventh Round: Dependent on 2026 playtime.
- Fifth to Sixth Round: A possible fifth-rounder, again tied to 2026 performance.
Stay tuned as we track the Raiders' roster moves and break down which stars might be on the move—or staying put in Sin City. Whether you're stocking up on Raiders gear or just dreaming of the next big signing, this is your early window into what's ahead.