Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders

In the NFL, roster depth isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially during the grueling stretch of the regular season where injuries and fatigue can derail even the most talented teams. For the Las Vegas Raiders, recent roster promotions from their practice squad to the active 53-man roster have sent a clear signal: the team’s depth is stronger than in recent years, with young players ready to step up and contribute when called upon. These promotions aren’t just emergency fill-ins; they’re the result of months of development, practice reps, and standout performances in limited opportunities. By elevating players who know the system, fit the team’s culture, and have proven their worth, the Raiders are not only addressing short-term needs but also building long-term stability. Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders breaks down the key promotions, their impact on the roster, and why they’re a positive sign for the franchise’s future.

Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders starts with the most impactful promotion: rookie running back Zamir White, who was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster after backup Ameer Abdullah was placed on injured reserve with a knee sprain. White, a fourth-round draft pick in 2023 out of Georgia, spent the first 15 weeks of the season on the practice squad, honing his skills and learning the Raiders’ offensive system. In limited action during preseason, he rushed for 120 yards on 32 carries (3.8 yards per carry) and caught two passes for 15 yards, showing flashes of the power running style that made him a two-time national champion in college. His promotion comes at a critical time, as starter Josh Jacobs has been dealing with a minor ankle injury and needs reliable backup support. “Zamir has earned this promotion with his work ethic and his performance in practice,” said running backs coach Taylor Embree. “He’s picked up our system quickly, and he’s shown he can handle the physicality of the NFL. This promotion isn’t just about filling a spot—it’s about rewarding a player who’s put in the work and giving us another weapon in the run game.” White made his regular-season debut in Week 16 against the Indianapolis Colts, rushing for 45 yards on 10 carries and helping the Raiders secure a 31-24 win.

Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders highlights another key promotion: linebacker Luke Masterson, who was signed to the active roster after spending most of the season on the practice squad. Masterson, an undrafted free agent in 2022, initially made the Raiders’ roster out of training camp last year but was waived mid-season and re-signed to the practice squad. This season, he’s been elevated to the active roster for three games, recording 18 tackles, one sack, and one pass breakup—impressive numbers for a player with limited snaps. His promotion comes as the Raiders deal with injuries at linebacker, with Denzel Perryman (hamstring) and Cory Littleton (concussion) missing time. Masterson’s versatility—he can play both middle and outside linebacker—makes him a valuable addition to the defensive rotation. “Luke is the kind of player who makes the most of every opportunity,” said defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. “He’s smart, he’s tough, and he’s always prepared. In practice, he’s consistently one of our top performers, and when we’ve put him in games, he’s delivered. This promotion signals that we trust him to contribute in meaningful moments, and it shows the depth we’re building at linebacker.” Masterson’s standout performance in Week 17 against the Denver Broncos—where he recorded seven tackles and a sack—proved that he’s ready for a larger role.

Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders delves into the promotion of wide receiver Phillip Dorsett, a veteran who was signed to the active roster after spending two months on the practice squad—and how it underscores the Las Vegas Raiders’ improved depth at the position. Dorsett, a 10-year NFL veteran who has played for the Patriots, Colts, Seahawks, and Texans, joined the Raiders’ practice squad in October after being released by the Houston Texans. He brings a combination of speed (4.33 40-yard dash) and experience, which has been valuable in practice as he’s helped the Raiders’ defense prepare for opposing speed receivers. His promotion comes as backup wide receiver Hunter Renfrow deals with a hamstring injury, and it gives the Raiders another option in the passing game—especially on deep routes. For the Las Vegas Raiders, Dorsett’s promotion is a sign of depth not just in terms of talent, but in terms of veteran leadership. “Phillip has been a great addition to our team, even on the practice squad,” said wide receivers coach Edgar Bennett. “He’s helped our young receivers grow, and he’s shown he can still play at a high level. This promotion gives us another reliable pass-catcher and adds a veteran presence to our offense. For the Las Vegas Raiders, having a player like Phillip ready to step in shows how far we’ve come in building depth at wide receiver.” Dorsett caught his first pass as a Raider in Week 18 against the Los Angeles Chargers, a 25-yard reception that set up a field goal.

Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders explores how these promotions reflect the Las Vegas Raiders’ improved player development system—something that has been a weakness in recent years. In the past, the Raiders relied heavily on free agency to build their roster, neglecting practice squad development and leaving themselves thin when injuries struck. But under general manager Dave Ziegler and head coach Josh McDaniels, the team has shifted its focus to developing young talent, using the practice squad as a “farm system” to groom players for the active roster. This approach has paid off, with White, Masterson, and Dorsett all proving they can contribute at the NFL level. “Player development is the foundation of building sustainable depth,” Ziegler said in a recent press conference. “We’re investing time and resources into our practice squad players, giving them reps in practice, teaching them our systems, and preparing them for when their number is called. For the Las Vegas Raiders, these promotions are a direct result of that investment. They show that our development system is working, and that we’re building a roster where every player—whether on the active roster or practice squad—has a chance to contribute.” This shift in philosophy has not only improved the Raiders’ depth but also made them more flexible and cost-effective, as practice squad players are paid significantly less than veteran free agents.

Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders concludes with what these promotions mean for the Las Vegas Raiders’ future and their competitiveness in the AFC West. In a division where teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers have deep, talented rosters, the Raiders’ improved depth gives them a fighting chance to compete in close games and weather the storm of injuries. For young players like White and Masterson, these promotions are a stepping stone to larger roles, and they provide the Raiders with internal options to fill positions without having to overspend in free agency. For fans, the promotions are a sign of progress—proof that the team is building for the future while remaining competitive in the present. “It’s exciting to see young players get a chance and perform well,” said long-time Raiders fan Maria Gonzalez. “In years past, when we had injuries, we’d have to sign random free agents who didn’t know the system. Now, we have guys who’ve been with the team all season, who know our plays, and who can step in and contribute right away. That’s the kind of depth that wins games.” In the end, Promotion Signals Depth for the Las Vegas Raiders is a story of growth and progress—proving that the Raiders are no longer a team relying on star power alone, but a franchise building a deep, talented roster that can compete for championships for years to come.