Despite a Rough Season, Raiders Still Boast Pro Bowl-Caliber Talent
Let’s be honest-2025 hasn’t exactly been a banner year for the Las Vegas Raiders. With a new head coach at the helm and a season that’s felt more like a rebuild than a resurgence, Raider Nation has had to endure its fair share of frustration.
But even in a year where the team has struggled to find its footing, there’s still a bright spot: talent. Real, undeniable, Pro Bowl-worthy talent.
That’s what fans are rallying around now. The season may be slipping into the rearview, but the Pro Bowl voting gives Raider Nation a chance to spotlight the players who’ve continued to shine, regardless of the team’s record.
Brock Bowers: Already a Star, Even in Year Two
Let’s start with Brock Bowers. The second-year tight end has picked up right where he left off after his All-Pro rookie campaign. Despite missing time this season, Bowers remains one of the top vote-getters among AFC tight ends-and for good reason.
When Bowers is on the field, he’s a mismatch nightmare. His ability to stretch the field, find soft spots in coverage, and make plays after the catch has kept opposing defenses on their heels. He’s already stacked up multiple multi-touchdown games this season, and even with the Raiders’ offensive inconsistencies, he continues to look like one of the most dynamic young weapons in the league.
The fact that he’s still pulling in votes despite missing games says a lot-not just about his popularity, but about the impact he makes when he’s healthy. He’s not just a future star. He’s already there.
Maxx Crosby: The Relentless Heart of the Defense
Then there’s Maxx Crosby, the soul of the Raiders’ defense and a player who never seems to take a play off. In a season where little has gone according to plan, Crosby has remained the constant-a relentless, high-motor force who continues to produce at an elite level.
While his sack total (eight) might not jump off the page compared to some of the league leaders, dig a little deeper and you’ll see just how dominant he’s been. He’s second in the NFL in tackles for loss with 23 and leads all edge rushers with 37 total tackles.
His run defense? Arguably the best among his peers-he tops the position with 26 run stops.
And keep in mind, this is all happening in a season where he hasn’t always been put in the best position schematically. Even when the game plan doesn’t favor him, Crosby finds a way to make his presence felt. That’s the mark of a truly elite player.
Other Standouts: AJ Cole and Ashton Jeanty
It’s not just Bowers and Crosby carrying the torch for Las Vegas. Special teams ace AJ Cole continues to prove he’s one of the NFL’s best punters. His precision and consistency are a weapon in their own right, flipping field position and giving the defense a fighting chance week after week.
Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has also made a strong impression. He’s been a bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent offense, showing flashes of explosiveness and vision that suggest he could be a key piece moving forward.
A Glimmer of Hope Amid Uncertainty
There’s no sugarcoating it: the Raiders are staring down an offseason that could bring major changes. A new regime could mean a roster overhaul, a fresh direction, and more growing pains. But what can’t be ignored is the fact that, even in a tough year, this team has foundational talent.
Bowers is already one of the most exciting tight ends in football. Crosby continues to be one of the most complete edge defenders in the league.
Cole is elite at what he does. Jeanty is just getting started.
The wins might not be there, but the building blocks are. And in a season where not much has gone right, that’s something worth celebrating. Raider Nation knows it-and they’re making sure the rest of the league does too.