We’re excited for the Oakland Raiders to officially abdicate their Oakland name and don the proud Las Vegas label. With Raiders Stadium on track to finish by next season, we’re ready for the Raiders to call our valley home.
Get excited with us for this NFL season and see what to expect from the latest Raiders roster.
Can’t wait for the 2019 NFL season? Join us for the Fox 5 Raiders Watch Party and sign up for the latest Downtown Watch Zone updates.
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Last Season Recap
Jon Gruden’s return to the Raiders in 2018 brought positive expectations for the team. Plus, he’s contracted to stay for a minimum of 10 years. After his brief sabbatical away from football, Gruden says he’s ready to get back to competing. Equipped with a Super Bowl win and previous coaching tenure, Gruden hit the season running.
The new coach’s initial moves included drafting veterans Kolton Miller and trading away Khalil Mack. If it’s not clear from fiery coaching from the sidelines or recorded rants in the locker room, Gruden means business.
However, last season, the Raiders went 4–12. They haven’t been to the playoffs since 2016. A new year and new recruits revive hopes this year that they return as AFC West champions—and beyond.
2019 Season and Roster
HBO recently launched their “Hard Knocks” series, narrowing in on the Raiders head coach Jon Gruden, giving an unconventional pep talk. He said he’s no longer into dreams, “he’s into ruining them.”
The Raiders roster, however, does have some fantasy football favorites. See all the important players to cheer for.
Returning Players
These are the top players returning this season.
Gabe Jackson – Running Back
While he had a down season last year, critics and fans are hopeful Jackson will pick up the pace.
Maurice Hurst – Defensive Tackle
Hurst performed well as a rookie last year but consistency will be key in 2019.
Kolton Miller – Left tackle
Coming off a knee injury, Miller will need to step up his game to challenge opposing offenses.
Gareon Conley – Cornerback
Conley showed up in a big way for the Raiders last year. They’ll need him to do the same this season.
New Recruits
These are the top drafted and traded players joining the team this season.
Lamarcus Joyner – Defensive Back
Taking the place of Karl Joseph, Joyner is expected to help improve the pass defense.
Josh Jacobs – Running Back
Rookie Jacobs is projected to leverage the offensive line.
Tyrell Williams – Wide Receiver
Recruited to assist in relieving pressure from Antonio Brown, Williams is needed to make big plays and stretch the defensive backs.
Clelin Ferrell – Defensive End
Many expect the rookie to spearhead sacks for the defense.
Antonio Brown – Wide Receiver
Despite a lot of controversy surrounding this particular recruit, Brown is considered one of the Raider’s top performers.
Derek Carr – Quarterback
In arguably one of the most important positions, QB Carr has a weighty burden to lead the team to an elite level, the level of champions.
What to Expect This Season
As the scent of training camp trails off the black and silver uniforms, the Raiders rev up for a promising season. So far, the Oakland football team has started off on a strong foot with victory over the Rams. With the latest recruits like Antonio Brown and rookies like Ferrell and Jacobs, many hope this year is the year they commandeer AFC West Championship.
Raiders continue the preseason with games against the Cardinals, Seahawks, and the Green Bay Packers.
To officially launch the season, the Raiders will face off the Denver Broncos on September 9.
Downtown Watch Zone Returns
Join fans on the field for the best game day seats around town. RSVP for our first Raiders Watch Party of the season.
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