Andrew Buller-Russ
Most would agree that the Las Vegas Raiders have done a good job of rebuilding on the fly and building a much stronger supporting cast for Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza compared to what Geno Smith was working with last year.
While the offensive line is improved, questions remain at the pass-catcher position. Have the Raiders supplied their new-look QB room with enough weaponry?
Sports Illustrated‘s Eva Geitheim doesn’t think so, but she has a potential solution in mind. She believes the Raiders should try to sign free agent receiver Deebo Samuel.
“The Raiders did not invest any high picks in a receiver during this year’s draft, and need more help at the position. Deebo Samuel is no longer as explosive as he was in his prime, but he remained productive last season in Washington as he recorded 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns. New coach Klint Kubiak is familiar with Samuel, dating back to their time on the 49ers in 2023, making Las Vegas a reasonable fit for the veteran wideout.”
SI’s Eva Geitheim on Raiders signing Deebo Samuel
Samuel, a one-time All-Pro receiver, is still just 30 years old. While Samuel recorded just 727 receiving yards last season, that’s 31 more than anyone on the Raiders had in 2025.
He may not fit the profile of a No. 1 receiver, but there’s no doubt Samuel could help provide a spark for the Raiders as a complementary piece to complement Brock Bowers. The question is whether there’s mutual interest.
However, with Samuel not being linked to any other teams, it’s possible he’d welcome the opportunity that the Raiders could provide. The Raiders signed Jalen Nailor this offseason to a three-year, $35 million contract, and he’s expected to be among their leading pass-catchers. He’ll be competing for targets alongside 2025 second-round pick Jack Bech, 2025 fourth-round pick Dont’e Thornton, and Tre Tucker.
The Raiders may prefer to roll the dice on the youth they have developing into reliable playmakers. If so, they likely won’t be calling upon a veteran like Samuel. Yet, if Las Vegas gets to camp and realizes their prospects aren’t quite ready for primetime, then Samuel may be just what the Raiders need.
Related: 2026 NFL QB Rankings: From NFL’s Worst Starting QB to the Best
