Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders
- Las Vegas Raiders
- 11/29/2025 11:09:05 PM
The 2025 NFL season put the Las Vegas Raiders’ roster depth to strict tests, as mid-season injuries sidelined key starters across all units. What began as a 6-3 start quickly turned into a resilience battle, forcing backups and rookies into critical roles—from quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s two-game absence to cornerback Amik Robertson’s four-week hiatus. These challenges revealed not just individual talent, but the Raiders’ ability to prepare reserves for high-stakes moments. Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders explores how the team navigated these hurdles, standout backup performances, and lessons for building a durable roster. For a Super Bowl-contending franchise, these tests were less setbacks and more proof of long-term strength.
Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders started with Garoppolo’s knee sprain in Week 9. Backup Brian Hoyer—an 11-year vet with limited starts—faced low expectations, but led the Raiders to a 2-0 record, including a 24-17 win over the Chiefs. Hoyer’s success relied on surrounding depth: Josh Jacobs rushed for 120+ yards in both games, Davante Adams caught 18 passes for 220 yards, and the offensive line (already missing left guard Dylan Parham) allowed just two sacks. “‘Next man up’ is just a phrase until you live it,” Hoyer said. “Coaches prepped me like a starter, and my teammates made it easy. That’s depth—trusting the guy beside you.”
A longer depth test, highlighted in Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders, hit the defense: Robertson (hamstring), defensive tackle Bilal Nichols (calf), and linebacker Denzel Perryman (concussion) missed time in a four-week span. Backups Nate Hobbs (cornerback), Adam Butler (DT), and Divine Deablo (linebacker) stepped up, keeping the defense in the top 10 by allowing 19 points per game and recording 10 sacks (four from Maxx Crosby). Hobbs shifted from slot to outside corner and notched two interceptions; Butler tallied 12 tackles for loss in run defense; Deablo led the team in tackles three weeks straight. “Losing stars hurts, but it lets others shine,” defensive coordinator Patrick Graham said. “These guys didn’t just fill roles—they raised the unit. That’s a deep roster.”
Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders also covered special teams, where kickoff returner Tre Tucker (shoulder) and long snapper Jacob Bobenmoyer (flu) missed games. Rookie Tyron Johnson took over returns, averaging 25 yards (including a 45-yarder that set up a Week 12 TD), and practice squad snapper Carson Tinker executed flawlessly in his start. Kicker Daniel Carlson (92% field goals) and punter AJ Cole (48.5-yard average) stayed consistent. For the Las Vegas Raiders, special teams depth is often overlooked—but these tests proved its importance. “We prep backups like starters here,” special teams coordinator Tom McMahon said. “Tyron practiced returns weekly, Carson was ready to snap instantly. Preparation keeps us steady.”
A hidden depth test, explored in Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders, came from “game-day inactive” players—those on the roster but rarely on the field. Rookie offensive lineman Thayer Munford Jr., a seventh-round pick with 12 career snaps, filled in for Parham, starting two games and allowing no sacks while helping the Raiders rush for 140 yards in a win over the Chargers. Rookie safety Chris Smith II—who played 8 defensive snaps all season—stepped in for Robertson and recorded a game-sealing interception in Week 11. For the Las Vegas Raiders, these players reflect intentional roster building. “We don’t sign guys to sit,” GM Trent Baalke said. “Thayer and Chris worked hard, stayed ready, and delivered. That’s real depth—not just filling spots.”
Looking ahead, Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders outlines how these challenges shaped future roster strategy. The Raiders plan to re-sign key backups (Hoyer, Hobbs, Munford) for continuity, and coaches now give backups more first-team reps in practice. For the Las Vegas Raiders, 2025’s tests were a wake-up call and validation. “You can’t win in the NFL without depth,” head coach Josh McDaniels said. “Every team has injuries—success depends on prepping backups and building a roster where everyone knows their role. We’re on track, but there’s more to do.”
Tests of Team Depth in Season for the Las Vegas Raiders ends with a story of resilience: the Raiders turned injuries into a showcase of roster strength. From Hoyer’s clutch starts to Munford’s unexpected impact, they proved depth is about ready, willing players—not just extra bodies. For fans, it’s a reminder to root for the team, not just stars. As the Raiders head to the playoffs, their depth remains a top asset—protecting against future injuries and outlasting opponents who rely too much on starters. In the end, 2025’s depth tests didn’t just make the Las Vegas Raiders better—they made them more resilient, ready to compete with anyone.