The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2026 roster is taking shape, but there still could be some roster tinkering and that includes some current players who could be candidates to be traded at some point before the season starts. Let’s look at some potential trade candidates:
Guard Jackson Powers-Johnson:
There has been a lot of speculation that Powers-Johnson could be on his way out. I’m not quite buying that. There is, no doubt, Powers-Johnson had a rough 2025 for a lot of reasons But this is a new year and, most
importantly, a new coaching staff. I think the Raiders owe it to themselves to see what they can do with JPJ. The 2024 second-round pick is talented and has showed some flashes. But the light has to come one for good and here is no reason why that can’t happen this year. Now, if Powers-Johnson can’t carve out a starting job in training camp, then a trade could be considered. But the new coaching staff needs to see what they have.
Tight end Michael Mayer:
Mayer is entering the final year of his contract. The 2023 second-round pick (who the Raiders traded up to draft) has had flashes and hasn’t lived up to expectations. Like every year, there is hope he can excel in a double tight-end set with star tight end Brock Bowers. We shall see. I think it’s probable that Mayer stays in Las Vegas this year, but a trade isn’t out of the question.
Quarterback Aidan O’Connell:
O’Connell may be he most likely player on this list to get shipped out. There was speculation he could be dealt during the draft, but, for now, it looks like he will be headed to training camp with the Raiders. Still, there are questions whether he is a fit for Klint Kubiak’s offense. Don’t be surprised the 2023 fourth-round pick (who is entering the final year of his contract) is traded at some point before the 53-man rosters are set.
Wide receiver Dont’e Thornton:
Last year, he was a rookie fourth-round pick with major buzz hovering around him. Then, the game started, he should he was nowhere near ready to contribute. Now, the Raiders’ wide-receiver room has gotten more crowded and sixth-round pick Malik Benson has the buzz around him. There are questions how great of a fit Thornton is for Kubiak’s offense. If it’s not happening early in training camp, the Raiders may try to salvage a low-round pick for Thornton if they feel there is no room for him on the 53-man roster.
Who do you think may (or may not be) traded before the season starts?
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