The Las Vegas Raiders have been busy reshaping their roster, and most analysts agree they've done a solid job building a stronger supporting cast for their revamped quarterback room—featuring Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza—compared to what Geno Smith had to work with last season. But while the offensive line looks improved, questions still linger at the pass-catcher position. Have the Raiders given their new-look QBs enough weapons to succeed?
According to Sports Illustrated's Eva Geitheim, the answer is no—but she has a compelling solution in mind: signing free agent wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
"The Raiders did not invest any high picks in a receiver during this year's draft, and need more help at the position," Geitheim noted. "Deebo Samuel is no longer as explosive as he was in his prime, but he remained productive last season in Washington as he recorded 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns. New coach Klint Kubiak is familiar with Samuel, dating back to their time on the 49ers in 2023, making Las Vegas a reasonable fit for the veteran wideout."
Samuel, a one-time All-Pro who is still just 30 years old, may not be the dominant No. 1 receiver he once was. But here's a telling stat: his 727 receiving yards last season were actually 31 more than any Raiders player managed in 2025. That alone suggests he could provide an immediate spark, especially as a complementary piece alongside star tight end Brock Bowers.
The question, of course, is whether there's mutual interest. Samuel hasn't been heavily linked to other teams, which could open the door for Las Vegas to make a move. The Raiders have already invested in Jalen Nailor this offseason with a three-year, $35 million contract, and he's expected to be among their top pass-catchers. He'll be competing for targets alongside 2025 second-round pick Jack Bech, 2025 fourth-round pick Dont'e Thornton, and Tre Tucker.
The Raiders could certainly choose to roll the dice on their young, developing talent rather than adding a veteran like Samuel. But if they're looking for a proven playmaker to elevate their offense right now, the All-Pro wideout might just be the missing piece they need.