Latest Las Vegas Raiders News: 2022 Offseason Moves, NFL Draft, Davante Adams Trade

Latest News and Updates on the Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for an exciting 2023 offseason and 2023 NFL season. After finishing the 2022 season with a disappointing 6-11 record, the Raiders will look to bounce back and compete for a playoff spot next season under new head coach Josh McDaniels.

Here are some of the latest news and updates surrounding the Raiders this offseason:

Changes to Coaching Staff

The Raiders moved on from interim head coach Rich Bisaccia and hired former Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels as their new head coach. McDaniels has begun assembling his coaching staff, hiring former Patriots staffers such as offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.

On the offensive side, McDaniels hopes to get the Raiders offense back on track after an inconsistent 2022 season. He will look to maximize the strengths of key players like quarterback Derek Carr, wide receiver Davante Adams, and running back Josh Jacobs.

Free Agency Moves

The Raiders entered free agency with limited cap space but still managed to make some key signings. They bolstered their pass rush by signing defensive end Chandler Jones and defensive tackle Bilal Nichols. Jones is a proven sacks producer who should help improve the Raiders' mediocre pass rush from last season.

Las Vegas also re-signed important veterans like cornerback Anthony Averett and running back Brandon Bolden. Retaining their own free agents was crucial for the Raiders with limited cap flexibility.

2022 NFL Draft

The Raiders owned the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. With that selection, they chose offensive tackle Dylan Parham out of Memphis. Parham provides versatility with the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line.

In the third round, Las Vegas selected running back Zamir White from Georgia. White will provide depth behind starter Josh Jacobs and insurance in case Jacobs leaves in free agency after 2022. The Raiders focused on the trenches and running game early in the draft.

Key Departures

While the Raiders brought in new faces, they also had to say goodbye to some key veterans. Defensive end Yannick Ngakoue was traded to the Colts, clearing cap space while the Raiders acquired cornerback Rock Ya-Sin in return.

Starting right tackle Brandon Parker left in free agency, signing with the Texans. Long-time Raiders cornerback Casey Hayward Jr. also departed, joining the Falcons on a two-year deal.

Derek Carr's Future

There has been speculation about Derek Carr's future as the Raiders quarterback ever since the hiring of Josh McDaniels. Carr is entering the final year of his contract in 2022.

McDaniels and new GM Dave Ziegler have voiced support for Carr, but they could also look to acquire their own hand-picked QB next offseason. How Carr performs in 2022 could determine whether he remains the long-term answer for Las Vegas.

Davante Adams Addition

The Raiders made a blockbuster trade in March to acquire star wide receiver Davante Adams from the Packers. They then signed him to a 5-year, $140 million contract extension.

Landing Adams gives Derek Carr an elite WR1 to throw to. Adams finished second in the NFL with 123 receptions last season and has posted three straight seasons over 1100 yards. He and Carr were college teammates at Fresno State.

Outlook for 2022 Season

With an upgraded receiving corps led by Adams, the Raiders offense has the talent to take a big leap in 2022. Carr and Adams have natural chemistry from their college days that should translate quickly to the pros.

Defensively, Chandler Jones boosts the pass rush while new coordinator Patrick Graham fits the mold of a tough, disciplined coach. Graham could help improve the Raiders' porous run defense from last season.

The AFC West will be stacked again, but a softened schedule outside the division gives the Raiders a chance to compete for a Wild Card spot. McDaniels will need to prove himself as a head coach, and Carr must take advantage of the new weapons around him.

If the offense gels and the defense steps up, Las Vegas has enough talent to snap its playoff drought and make a postseason run. It will be an exciting 2022 campaign for Raider Nation.

FAQs

Who is the new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders?

The Raiders hired former Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels as their new head coach for the 2022 season. He replaces interim head coach Rich Bisaccia.

What major free agent did the Raiders acquire this offseason?

The Raiders' biggest free agent acquisition was trading for star wide receiver Davante Adams. Adams joins the Raiders after spending the first 8 seasons of his career with the Green Bay Packers.

Who did the Raiders draft in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft?

With the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Raiders selected offensive tackle Dylan Parham out of Memphis. He provides versatility to play multiple positions on the offensive line.