Are the Raiders Buyers or Bystanders This Season?

The Las Vegas Raiders were written off in August but are knocking on the playoff door in November. The Silver and Black are closer to contending than rebuilding, and the Nov. 10 trade deadline is the perfect time to prove they mean it.

Before this season began, expectations were that the Raiders would be one of the worst teams in the NFL again. After eight weeks, however, Las Vegas is in playoff contention.

Even as they face a difficult slate of upcoming games, this roster looks much closer to a playoff contender than a rebuilding one. With the trade deadline arriving Nov. 10, the Silver and Black should add a game-changer soon. The timing is ideal as one move could make a major difference in the team’s competitiveness across the league.

A Wide Receiver Helps Ashton Jeanty Shine

Ashton Jeanty has faced heavy criticism in recent weeks. The sixth overall pick in the 2025 draft is averaging 3.1 yards per carry and lost his workhorse role to Mike Washington Jr. last week. As a result, analysts such as Rex Ryan are calling him “the worst running back draft pick in 20 years.”

The reality is more complicated. Defenses are stacking the box whenever Jeanty is on the field because the Raiders have few other offensive threats besides tight end Brock Bowers. If Las Vegas wants a more consistent rushing attack, it needs a receiver who can reliably separate on the outside. Fortunately, several options are available via trade right now.

One is Brian Thomas Jr., who was not targeted once in Thursday night’s game. The former LSU receiver was a first-round talent but has become a backup option. Another is Calvin Ridley of the Tennessee Titans, a veteran whose production has dropped sharply since he left Atlanta.

Maxx Crosby Drastically Needs a Defensive Tackle

Maxx Crosby, known as “The Condor,” has three sacks through eight games this season. Opponents double-team him on almost every play, and he is the only real pass-rush threat the Raiders have. As a result, offenses have been successful once they take Crosby out of the equation.

The run defense has been just as troubling. Offensive guards easily slip to the second level, and the Raiders consistently lose at the point of attack. Nakobe Dean played well in the first three games but has faded since. Las Vegas needs an anchor in the middle of its defense.

Quality defensive tackles are hard to find, but a few are available via trade. Daron Payne of the Washington Commanders and Grover Stewart of the Indianapolis Colts would both fit well. Adding one before the deadline would give Crosby and the rest of the unit the help they need.