Preseason Showdown: Raiders vs. Seahawks
SEATTLE — The exhibition opener between the Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks on Thursday promises more than just a nostalgic reunion for coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith. Carroll, who enjoyed a 14-year tenure in Seattle, and Smith, who revitalized his NFL career in the Pacific Northwest, both bring compelling narratives to this matchup. Yet, amid the sentimentality, the focus remains sharply on football dynamics, team evaluations, and the quest for roster spots.
1. Offensive Starters on Display
Coach Carroll has suggested that all players on the roster are “live,” indicating a significant chance that some offensive starters will see playing time. Given the Raiders’ fresh start with Chip Kelly at the helm as offensive coordinator, this game serves as a crucial opportunity for the revamped offense. With Smith at the quarterback position, new center Jordan Meredith, and key rookies Ashton Jeanty and Dont’e Thornton gunning for starting roles, every snap will be a chance to build chemistry and fine-tune strategies.
This game is particularly vital for the Raiders, especially since they have only one joint practice set up with another team — on August 14 against the 49ers. Preseason games like this one are essential for strengthening offensive relationships and understanding Kelly’s system. Players like Thornton, rookie receiver Jack Bech, and veteran Tre Tucker will be placed under the spotlight, while rookie offensive linemen Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant, along with rookie quarterback Cam Miller, will be eager to showcase their growth.
In contrast, Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald has indicated that many of his starters might not play, shifting the focus even more onto the Raiders’ young players.
2. Scrutinizing the Offensive Line
Another key reason to consider playing offensive starters is the ongoing battle at the right guard position between Jackson Powers-Johnson and Alex Cappa. This matchup carries weight, as it directly affects how well they gel with Meredith at center. Powers-Johnson started training camp as the favored candidate for the role, but Meredith’s transition from guard to center has raised curiosity among the coaching staff.
At 6 feet 2 inches and 302 pounds, Meredith’s frame suggests he may be better suited at center, while Powers-Johnson remains a solid candidate for right guard. The outcome of this initial matchup could significantly influence the coaching staff’s confidence leading into the regular season.
3. Spotlight on Young Cornerbacks
As the Raiders look to reinforce their secondary, the preseason presents an intriguing narrative with rookie cornerback Darien Porter in pole position for a starting spot. Having transitioned from wide receiver to cornerback during his college years at Iowa State, Porter is on the fast track to showcasing his skills. Meanwhile, second-year cornerback Decamerion Richardson is also in the mix, vying for playing time alongside Porter.
What’s compelling about Porter is his physical attributes — standing 6 feet 3 inches with a 4.3 40-yard dash — which fits perfectly into Carroll’s defensive philosophy. The coaching staff is keen on assessing whether Porter and Richardson can truly become key players in the defensive lineup during the game against the Seahawks. Additionally, cornerbacks JT Woods, Darnay Holmes, Kyu Blu Kelly, and Greedy Vance will also be vying for their chances to impress.
4. Evaluating Defensive Line Progress
The defensive line will also be an area of focus during this exhibition. Although players like Maxx Crosby, Adam Butler, and Malcolm Koonce may not see extensive action, the coaches are keen to evaluate Tyree Wilson, a third-year lineman demonstrating promising improvement throughout camp. Wilson is expected to play a versatile role as both an edge and interior pass rusher, making this matchup against the Seahawks an ideal opportunity for him to showcase his skills.
Expect to see young defensive players such as Jonah Laulu, JJ Pegues, and Tonka Hemingway compete for their share of playing time. Laulu is projected as a starter, while rookies Pegues and Hemingway will fight for rotational roles.
Game Day Details
Who: Raiders at Seahawks
When: 7 p.m. Thursday
Where: Lumen Field, Seattle
TV: Fox
Radio: KRLV-AM (920), KOMP-FM (92.3)
Line: Raiders -4½; total 37½
As the Raiders face off against the Seahawks, all eyes will be focused on the new faces and returning favorites determined to carve out their roles in their respective teams. Whether it’s the battle for starting positions, the assessment of young talent, or the implementation of new schemes, this preseason opener has plenty of storylines to watch unfold.