The Las Vegas Raiders’ minicamp in May 2025 highlighted key developments in the team’s preparation for the 2025 NFL season, with kicker Matt Gay emphasizing “consistency” as a priority, according to a team spokesperson. The three-day session, held at the team’s practice facility in Henderson, Nevada, focused on refining special teams and evaluating roster depth ahead of the regular season.
Gay, who made 28 of 32 field goals in 2024, participated in drills that included long-range attempts and situational kicks, with head coach Josh McDaniels noting his “professional approach to every rep.” The Raiders’ special teams coordinator, Ray Ventrone, confirmed that the unit “worked on communication and execution under pressure,” a focus area following last season’s struggles in critical moments.
Key takeaways from the minicamp include the emergence of rookie kicker Matthew Wright, who “showed promise with his leg strength and accuracy,” according to a team official. Wright, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 draft, completed 12 of 15 field goal attempts during practice, drawing praise from quarterbacks Derek Carr and Jimmy G. “He’s got a good leg and a calm demeanor,” Carr said in a post-practice interview.
Special Teams Adjustments
The Raiders made several roster moves following the minicamp, including the release of veteran return specialist Tyreek Hill, who was traded to the Chiefs in April. Hill’s absence prompted a shift in focus to younger players, with second-year receiver Davante Adams leading return drills. Adams, who led the league in punt return yards in 2024, “demonstrated his versatility,” according to Ventrone.
Defensive players also participated in special teams work, with linebacker Nick Niemann and safety Rashaan Evans both taking reps on kick coverage. Niemann, who recorded 12 tackles in 2024, said the team is “building a culture of accountability” across all units. “Every player understands their role, whether it’s on defense or special teams,” he added.
Quarterback Competition
The minicamp also featured a battle for the backup quarterback role between Jimmy G and rookie KJ Jefferson. Both passers completed over 70% of their passes in team drills, with Jefferson showcasing his arm strength on deep routes. Head coach Josh McDaniels declined to comment on the competition, stating, “We’re focused on development, not assignments yet.”
Jefferson, the 18th overall pick in the 2025 draft, completed 14 of 18 passes during a two-minute drill, including a 45-yard completion to wide receiver Davante Adams. “He’s got the physical tools and the work ethic,” Adams said. “The next step is consistency under pressure.”
Looking Ahead
The Raiders’ next major event is the 2025 NFL Draft in April, where they hold the 12th overall pick. General manager Dave Ziegler has indicated the team will prioritize “defensive upgrades” and “versatile skill players,” according to a league source. The team’s training camp is scheduled to begin in late July, with the regular season opener set for September 8 against the Denver Broncos.
For fans, the minicamp provided a glimpse of the team’s direction under new coordinator Chris Morgan, who was hired in February. Morgan, previously the offensive coordinator for the Titans, has emphasized “discipline and execution” in his first season. “We’re building a foundation for sustained success,” he said in a press conference.
As the Raiders prepare for the 2025 season, the focus remains on special teams cohesion and quarterback development. With key free agent signings and draft picks, the team aims to improve on its 8-9 record from 2024. The next confirmed checkpoint is the team’s annual “FanFest” event on June 15, where players will interact with supporters for the first time this season.
Las Vegas Raiders official site
ESPN coverage of Raiders minicamp
What steps will the Raiders take to address their special teams issues? How will the quarterback competition shape the team’s strategy? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation on social media using #Raiders2025.
