The Pete Carroll era begins as the Las Vegas Raiders open 2025 training camp. See how new signing Jamal Adams fits into the renewed culture and high expectations.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The long wait is over, Raider Nation. The heat of the Nevada desert has nothing on the energy radiating from team headquarters today, as players officially reported for the start of the 2025 training camp. This isn't just another camp; it's the dawn of a new era under legendary head coach Pete Carroll, and the feeling of a fresh start is palpable.
'They look great. Guys have really worked out hard to get back to this.' - Head Coach Pete Carroll on the team's condition reporting to camp.
From the moment he stepped to the podium, Pete Carroll's infectious enthusiasm set the tone. For the first time, he and GM John Spytek welcomed the squad to Henderson, emphasizing a renewed focus on connecting with the fan base and building a tough, unified team. Carroll praised the players' offseason work ethic, noting their excellent physical condition. The message was clear: expectations are high, the work will be hard, and full buy-in to the new culture is non-negotiable. The primary goal of this camp will be forging chemistry between returning players and a host of new faces.
As if the first day of camp wasn't newsworthy enough, the front office made a significant move to bolster the defense. The Raiders signed veteran safety and three-time Pro Bowler Jamal Adams, a player known for his physicality and leadership. The move immediately addresses a major weakness from the 2024 season. Adams is expected to be a tone-setter in a revamped secondary. The team also added depth by signing former Chargers safety JT Woods, providing valuable special teams experience. These signings send a clear signal: improving the defense is a top priority.
All eyes will be on the offense, now orchestrated by the innovative Chip Kelly. Veteran quarterback Geno Smith, acquired via trade, takes the reins, reuniting with his former Seahawks coach. He'll have a dynamic new weapon in the backfield in rookie running back Ashton Jeanty. The 6th overall pick from Boise State, who led all FBS running backs in receiving yards last year, is expected to play a massive, versatile role immediately. He joins second-year phenom Brock Bowers, who is already considered one of the league's best tight ends. The biggest question mark remains the offensive line, which must improve if this high-potential offense is to reach its ceiling.
The sportsbooks in the Raiders' own backyard are cautiously optimistic. The team's over/under win total is set at 7.5, a significant jump from last year's dismal 4-13 record. While that shows respect for the offseason moves—including adding veterans like RB Raheem Mostert and LB Devin White—the playoff odds tell a different story. At +1200 to win the AFC West and a staggering +12000 to win the Super Bowl, the Raiders are still considered longshots. For a franchise desperate to end a three-year playoff absence and a 22-year drought without a playoff win, proving the doubters wrong is the ultimate goal.
Day one is in the books, and the foundation is being laid. The next few weeks will be crucial as pads come on, systems are installed, and battles for starting spots heat up. Can Geno Smith find his Seattle magic again? Will Jamal Adams anchor the defense? Can Ashton Jeanty be the offensive sparkplug the team needs? The journey to answer these questions begins now, culminating in the preseason opener against the Seahawks and the ultimate test on September 7 in New England. For the first time in a while, there's a tangible sense of direction and hope in Henderson.
