As the Las Vegas Raiders continue their head coaching search-with John Spytek and Tom Brady leading the charge-they’ll no doubt be glued to this weekend’s Conference Championship Games. But while the coaching carousel spins, there’s another key piece of the offseason puzzle that shouldn't be overlooked: free agency.
With just four teams left standing, the Raiders are about to get a front-row look at some of the league’s top talent. And for a roster that’s still a few pieces away from serious contention, this is the perfect opportunity to scout potential difference-makers-especially veterans who’ve been battle-tested on playoff-caliber squads.
Here are five pending free agents playing this weekend who should be firmly on the Raiders’ radar:
1. K'Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, Patriots
Chaisson is a name that might sting a bit in Raiders HQ. After all, they had him in the building and let him walk.
Since then, he’s done nothing but prove them wrong in New England. He’s been a clutch performer all season, stepping up in high-leverage moments and showing the kind of edge-rushing presence Las Vegas could sorely use opposite Maxx Crosby.
The good news? The Patriots haven’t locked him up long term.
If he continues to show out-especially with a big performance this weekend against Jarrett Stidham and the Broncos-Las Vegas should be ready to make a strong push to bring him back. Sometimes a second chance is all it takes.
2. Drake Thomas, LB, Seahawks
Another familiar face. Thomas came into the league as an undrafted free agent with the Raiders, and all he did was dominate the preseason. But instead of sticking around in Vegas, he found a home in Seattle-and he’s flourished.
Now, Thomas is looking like a legitimate starting-caliber linebacker, and he’s due for a well-earned payday. The Raiders have a clear need at linebacker, and Thomas fits the bill as a young, ascending player who knows the system and brings high energy. If they let him slip through their fingers again, it could be a long-term regret.
3. Justin Strnad, LB, Broncos
Strnad isn’t the flashiest name on Denver’s defense, but don’t let that fool you-he’s a glue guy, the kind of player who makes everything around him work. He’s fundamentally sound, versatile, and rarely out of position.
While his stat sheet may not jump off the page, Strnad’s impact is felt in the cohesion and execution of the Broncos’ defense. For a Raiders team that’s struggled to find consistency at linebacker, he could be a stabilizing force.
And let’s be honest-poaching a key piece from a division rival? That’s just good business.
4. John Franklin-Myers, DT, Broncos
Franklin-Myers might not have the name recognition of some of his defensive line teammates, but make no mistake-he’s a problem in the trenches. With a powerful frame and quick first step, he brings interior pass-rush juice that the Raiders have been sorely lacking.
Yes, he’s had some tackling inconsistencies, but his ability to disrupt from the inside could be exactly what Las Vegas needs to lighten the load on Maxx Crosby. If Franklin-Myers flashes again this weekend, he could play his way into a major role on a new team-and the Raiders should be first in line.
5. Rashid Shaheed, WR, Seahawks
If the Raiders are looking for a spark plug-a true game-breaker-Shaheed might be their guy. He’s electric with the ball in his hands, whether it’s in the return game or stretching the field as a receiver. His speed and shiftiness make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball.
After being acquired midseason by Seattle, Shaheed has made the most of his opportunities, including a standout performance in the Divisional Round. If he hits the open market, Las Vegas would be wise to add a dynamic playmaker like him to complement their current receiving corps.
Bottom Line:
The Raiders are in a pivotal offseason-not just in choosing the next head coach, but in upgrading a roster that still has clear holes.
The Conference Championship Games won’t just be about who punches their ticket to the Super Bowl. For Las Vegas, it’s a live audition for some of the league’s most intriguing free agents.
And if they’re paying attention, they might just find the missing pieces they’ve been searching for.