The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in a state of transition as they look ahead to the 2023 season. After a tumultuous 2022 season marked by both promise and disappointment, the Raiders have made significant changes to their roster and coaching staff. Perhaps the most significant changes have come at both the quarterback and head coach positions, changing the entire face of the franchise.
Bold Moves in Las Vegas
The 2022 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Las Vegas Raiders. They started the year on a positive note, displaying offensive firepower under the guidance of quarterback Derek Carr. However, inconsistency plagued the Raiders, leading to a chaotic season, and the team ultimately chose to move on from Carr before the season ended. The defense struggled to find its footing, and bad play calling and execution sealed the team’s fate and Carr’s position with the team.
Raiders TE Darren Waller (83) – Getty Images
In the aftermath of a disappointing season, the Raiders have undergone significant changes. They decided to move on from key players like Tight-end Darren Waller, trading him away to the Giants in return for a 2023 third-round draft pick. The Raiders also made a bold move and released Derek Carr without a solid backup plan. It was rumored that McDaniels had his eye on the future Hall of Famer Tom Brady, but that ultimately didn’t come to fruition as Brady decided to retire.
Additions to The Las Vegas Roster
Raiders 1st Round Draft Pick Tyree Wilson – Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images
In an attempt to revamp their roster, the Raiders addressed key areas of concern on the defensive side of the ball by acquiring defensive-end Tyree Wilson and defensive tackle Byron Young. The silver & black also chose to fill the gap Waller left on the offense by acquiring Notre Dame’s stand-out Tight-end Michael Mayer during the draft. A quarterback wasn’t chosen until the fourth round, further concerning fans about the future of the franchise and the direction the team is headed in.
Raiders WR Hunter Renfrow (13) – AP Photo/Matt Patterson
The McDaniels system requires a specific skill set and not everyone fits the mold. This is likely the reason why slot receiver Hunter Renfrow may be getting traded soon and why McDaniels chose to draft wide receiver Tre Tucker in the third round. Renfrow’s exceptional skills and contributions make a strong case for why the Raiders should retain him rather than trade him away.
However, recent rumors suggest that head coach Josh McDaniels might be interested in pursuing a trade. If the Raiders were to consider parting ways with Hunter Renfrow, either Tre Tucker or Jakobi Meyers could emerge as a potential replacement in Josh McDaniels’ system.
Do the Las Vegas Raiders Stand a Chance in 2023?
The Las Vegas Raiders’ winning window in 2023 hinges on their ability to integrate the new coaching staff, develop chemistry, and execute on both sides of the ball, not to mention get things squared away at the QB position. With the uncertainty surrounding Jimmy Garoppolo’s injury and Aidan O’Connells rookie status, there is no current pathway to success. Instead, it seems to be a rebuilding season for the Raiders.
If O’Connell turns out to be a stud and has the right run-to-pass ratio along with the best running back in the league with Josh Jacobs, then there is a potential for success, especially with Davante Adams in the WR1 position.
As the Las Vegas Raiders gear up for the 2023 season, they find themselves in a state of transition. With changes in the coaching staff and roster improvements, there is concern about the future of the franchise. The defense remains a work in progress, and too many changes are occurring on the offensive side.
It is crucial that the franchise make real progress in building a solid team, as the division is stacked with great teams like the Chiefs, Chargers, and the new Broncos team led by Sean Payton. It is evident that the Silver & Black is at the bottom of the division based on the changes that have been happening. One can only hope for a successful and competitive season.
