3 Raiders Rookies in Line for Expanded Roles in 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders must get more from its 2025 draft class in 2026.

Dec 21, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jack Bech (18) celebrates running back Ashton Jeanty (2) touchdown reception against the Houston Texans in the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders will enter next season with a much different roster than they did this season. Still, for Las Vegas' rebuild to succeed, the roster will need several players who remain to have expanded roles next season. Specifically, the Raiders need more from the 2025 draft class.

The Raiders'3-14 season had several mysteries to it. None were bigger than the fact that most of the Raiders' 2025 draft class saw limited playing time until late in the season. Although players undoubtedly take time to develop, it was questionable how little the rookie class played this season.

Las Vegas eventually began getting more rookies playing time, but it was far too late. Moving forward, several of the Raiders' 2025 rookies must receive more of a role in whatever direction the Raiders' front office decides to go from here. There is little way the Raiders can succeed with this draft class.

Increased Roles Incoming

Caleb Rogers

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders guard Caleb Rogers (76) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Raiders' offense struggled the entire season. It was clear by the midway point of the season that Las Vegas had arguably the worst offensive line in the league. It eventually became clear it was unquestionably the worst. Still, former Raiders Head Coach Pete Carroll did not play Caleb Rogers.

Rogers was one of the two offensive linemen the Raiders drafted last season. He was the more polished of the two offensive linemen. Although Rogers needed time to develop, he should have been on the field much sooner. Going forward, he should be a vital part of the rebuild.

Jack Bech

Jack Bech was Las Vegas' second-round pick last offseason, which brought reasonable expectations of him making at least a serviceable impact. However, like Rogers, Carroll's coaching staff felt Bech needed more development.

Yet many would argue that game development is more productive than practice. Bech must continue to develop over the offseason. If Las Vegas can get Bech to contribute more next season, it could expedite the turnaround.

Dec 21, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jack Bech (18) before playing against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

Dont'e Thornton

Thornton has the physical build and speed to be a solid wide receiver in the league. However, Thornton must continue to develop the nuances of the position. He must improve his hands, his route running, and his overall understanding of what the Raiders' offense and opposing defenses are doing.

A more competent offensive staff, offensive line, and quarterback would help the fourth-round pick, though. Regardless, Thornton's draft position still makes him a low-risk, high-reward player. The Raiders' adding veteran receivers would help Thornton on and off the field, too.

Sep 15, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (10) runs after making a catch as Los Angeles Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) defends at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

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