The Las Vegas Raiders are set for a fresh start in the 2025 NFL season, equipped with a revamped roster and new head coach Pete Carroll.
Alongside company from quarterback Geno Smith and rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders welcome the New England Patriots in Week 1 of the NFL season on September 7, 2025.
In this article, we’ll examine Carroll's illustrious career, along with the background of Smith and Jeanty, how the team shapes up for the opener, and what expectations are for the team as the season draws near.
Pete Carroll's Coaching Legacy
Pete Carroll is not new to the NFL limelight. At 73, his second go-round with the Raiders is another chapter in a career spanning decades.
Carroll made his initial big splash as head coach of the New York Jets in 1994, though his one-year stint ended with a 6-10 record. He resurrected his career with the New England Patriots from 1997-1999, going 27-21 with two playoff berths, including an AFC East championship in 1997.
It was with the Seattle Seahawks from 2010 to 2023, though, that he cemented his legacy. In 14 seasons, Carroll had a 137-89-1 regular-season record, five NFC West championships, and a Super Bowl XLVIII title in 2014 over the Denver Broncos. His player-friendly, high-energy style transformed the Seahawks into a defensive giant, with the "Legion of Boom" era hallmarking his time there.
So it’s clear why Carrol’s presence gives hope for the Raiders, as his calming influence could help the franchise that is desperate for stability and success. For this new, promising era, the Raiders fans who feel optimistic can test their prediction skills by taking advantage of the sports betting promotions list with all the sites on it, and gain a head start through welcome bonuses for the upcoming season.
Geno Smith's Comeback Career
Geno Smith, aged 34, possesses a Las Vegas redemption story. Drafted in 2013 by the New York Jets, Smith started off slowly, finishing 12-18 as a starter in four years with a 57.7% completion percentage and 28-36 touchdown-interception ratio.
Following years of backup work for the Giants, Chargers, and Seahawks, Smith's career was rekindled in Seattle. From 2020 to 2023, he started 34 games, passing for 7,906 yards, 50 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions on a 67.4% completion percentage. The Pro Bowl season in 2022 was evidence of what he can do to command an offense with poise and accuracy. Smith joined the Raiders in 2025 and should bring veteran leadership and a steady arm, but how well he transitions into a new scheme under Carroll will be critical.
Ashton Jeanty's Explosive Potential
Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty is the X-factor for the Raiders.
A standout at Boise State, Jeanty rushed for 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns in his last collegiate season in 2024, winning the Heisman Trophy and drawing comparisons to NFL legends such as Saquon Barkley.
Standing 5'9" and 215 pounds, Jeanty is a compact power runner with breakaway speed and is a dual threat from the backfield. His vision and ability to break tackles have scouts buzzing, but the leap to the NFL is large. The Raiders' drafting of Jeanty signals a desire for a dynamic, run-oriented offense, and his chemistry with Smith can be the difference-maker for the team's early success.
Preparation for the Patriots Showdown
The Week 1 game for the Raiders against the Mike Vrabel-coached New England Patriots and quarterback Drake Maye is a test of sorts.
There are reports from training camp that Carroll is attempting to achieve a balanced offense by meshing Smith's play-action passing with Jeanty's rushing. The new offensive line has been working on opening up holes for Jeanty and shielding Smith from the New England aggressive front seven. Defensively, the Raiders are relying on veterans such as Maxx Crosby to harass second-year quarterback Maye.
Carroll's practices have been energetic, with an emphasis on discipline and flexibility—traits of his Seahawks days. The team's trip to Madrid for a Week 11 matchup with the Commanders has also shaped early preparations, with Carroll emphasizing team cohesion for the international platform.
Fan Expectations and Season Outlook
Raiders' fans are on an optimistic roll. Following years of up-and-down football, the arrival of Carroll has given fans hope of a playoff run.
Social media reaction is that of excitement about Jeanty's game-changing potential and Smith's prospects for bringing stability to the quarterback position.
The Week 1 matchup is viewed as a measuring stick against a rebuilding Patriots team as well. A tough, physical game is anticipated, with most believing Jeanty will top 100 yards rushing in his first game.
The more complete 2025 roster, with difficult games against the Chiefs and Dolphins, removes a bit of the luster, but the overall sentiment is that Carroll's experience and revamped roster would push the Raiders into a wild-card spot. The fan base is hungry for a playoff return, last witnessed in 2021, and believes this trio is the key to making that destiny happen.
As the Raiders enter 2025, Pete Carroll's battle-tested experience, Geno Smith's renaissance, and Ashton Jeanty's potential comprise an intriguing core. Week 1's matchup with the Patriots will create a stage full of promise and landmines for a whole season. If Carroll is able to maximize this roster, the Raiders might shock the NFL world and give fans a lot to be excited about.
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