Three weeks before the NFL’s legal tampering period begins, teams have started making early roster moves, and the Las Vegas Raiders may soon join them.
Under new head coach Pete Carroll and first-time general manager John Spytek, the Raiders are likely to reshape their roster, with potentially significant changes to their offensive personnel. While defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will continue developing his unit, secondary upgrades remain possible.
Here are five players who could be traded or released this offseason.
Center Andre James: Trade
Andre James could become expendable if the Raiders want Jackson Powers-Johnson to play his natural position at center. In six seasons, James has played center for all but one snap of his career, according to Pro Football Focus. His lack of positional versatility makes him an expensive backup with an $8.7 million cap hit. Though coming off a mediocre season, James could draw interest from teams needing an experienced starter at center.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders expected to move on from former Pro Bowler
Cornerback Jack Jones: Trade
Jack Jones had an inconsistent 2024 season after a productive stint under former head coach Antonio Pierce. Though he led the team with 16 pass breakups and three interceptions, Jones also allowed eight touchdowns in coverage. He faced disciplinary action early in the season after publicly criticizing teammates for making “business decisions” in Week 2.
The third-year cornerback’s playmaking ability could make him valuable in trade talks, potentially fetching an early Day 3 pick. His future with the Raiders may depend on whether they pursue a high-profile cornerback in free agency or select Will Johnson with the sixth overall pick.
Related: One bold prediction for every NFL team this offseason, including the Las Vegas Raiders
Quarterback Gardner Minshew: Cut
Gardner Minshew struggled as the Raiders’ primary starter in 2024, posting career lows with an 81.0 passer rating and 38.1 QBR while throwing nine touchdowns against 10 interceptions. According to The Athletic’s Tashan Reed, the Raiders could designate Minshew as a post-June 1 cut, spreading $10.8 million in dead money across 2025 ($7.8 million) and 2026 ($3 million). Aidan O’Connell, with his $1.3 million cap hit, offers a more economical backup option.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders linked to surprise QB, insider projects 2 possible big moves
Running back Zamir White: Cut
Zamir White underperformed in the league’s worst rushing attack, losing his starting role after Week 4 and battling injuries throughout the second half of 2024. He managed just 213 yards and one touchdown from scrimmage while losing two fumbles. For comparison, Alexander Mattison (714) and Ameer Abdullah (572) each recorded significantly more scrimmage yards and five touchdowns. White’s trade value is minimal following his injury-plagued season, and he could face competition for a roster spot.
Related: 7 moves Las Vegas Raiders must make in 2025 NFL free agency
Tight end Michael Mayer: Trade
After missing six weeks due to personal issues, Michael Mayer played a limited role behind All-Pro rookie Brock Bowers, recording just 21 catches for 156 yards without a touchdown. While the Raiders could employ two-tight-end sets to feature both players, Mayer might draw interest from teams looking to expand his role as a receiver. Despite a strong incoming tight end draft class, Mayer could potentially fetch a middle-round pick in trade talks.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders named as ‘team to watch’ for Pro Bowl QB coming off career year
Maurice Moton covers the Raiders for Sportsnaut. You can follow him on Twitter at @MoeMoton.