Following the departure of Daniel Carlson, a former two-time All-Pro, the Las Vegas Raiders are diligently seeking to rejuvenate their special teams roster. Carlson's field goal conversion rate saw a steady decline, particularly from beyond 50 yards, which prompted the team to sign veteran kicker Matt Gay. However, Gay's recent performance has also been inconsistent, leading the Raiders to explore emerging talents in both kicking and long snapping positions, focusing on younger players to enhance the unit's overall capability.
Several collegiate kickers present promising prospects for the Raiders. Trey Smack from Florida is considered a top contender due to his consistent performance, especially from long distances, showcasing a smooth and fluid kicking style. Dom Zvada from Michigan, despite past inconsistencies, possesses an exceptional leg and the ability to perform under pressure, suggesting significant potential if he can maintain a steady technique. Will Ferrin of BYU, who has already met with the Raiders, demonstrates a powerful leg and adaptability to NFL-style kickoffs, though he needs to refine his accuracy within the 30-45 yard range. Kansei Matsuzawa, known as the 'Tokyo Toe,' displayed an impressive 2025 season with a high conversion rate, but his experience with high-intensity kicks and long-range attempts remains largely untested. Other notable kickers include Drew Stevens from Iowa, Chris Freeman from UConn, Noe Ruelas from UCF, Mason Shipley from Texas, and Gabe Plascencia from San Diego State, all possessing unique strengths and areas requiring development to succeed at the professional level.
The Raiders are also evaluating several long snappers to find a strong replacement for Jacob Bobenmoyer. Garrison Grimes from BYU stands out for his elite snap velocity and accuracy, as well as his athleticism in tackling returners. Tyler Duzansky of Penn State offers a well-rounded skill set and an impressive tackling record, though he may need to gain more mass for the NFL. Beau Gardner from Georgia combines a large frame with athleticism, providing strong blocking and consistent snapping. Rocco Underwood from Florida, despite some inconsistencies, has NFL-level velocity and precise placement. Luke Basso from Oregon is recognized for his athletic traits and ability to impact plays downfield. Lastly, Ben Mann from Boston College exhibits an excellent combination of size and athleticism, showing high potential for a long NFL career with some technical adjustments. These prospects highlight the Raiders' commitment to strengthening their special teams by identifying and developing young talent.
The proactive scouting and recruitment of these promising young athletes by the Raiders underscores a forward-thinking approach to team building. By investing in talent that exhibits potential for growth and adapting to the rigorous demands of professional football, the organization is not only addressing immediate needs but also laying a foundation for future success and sustained competitiveness. This commitment to nurturing emerging stars reflects a broader philosophy that success is built on continuous improvement and strategic development, inspiring both the team and its supporters to strive for excellence.
