The Raiders’ roster underwent a significant transformation under the new leadership of John Spytke, marked by a bold trade for Geno Smith and a robust 11-player selection during the NFL Draft. Despite these substantial moves, the Raiders have strategically positioned themselves with one of the NFL’s most favorable salary cap situations, according to Overthecap.com, currently boasting $36.8 million in available space. Geno Smith currently represents the largest cap hit at $40 million, closely followed by Maxx Crosby with a contribution of $38.1 million. A key factor in the team’s advantageous position is the $20 million gap between the second and third highest-paid players, directly stemming from this strategic approach. The Raiders are also demonstrating fiscal prudence by avoiding overpaying for top-tier positions such as wide receiver, tackle, and cornerback. Jakobi Meyers currently holds the highest receiver salary at $14.9 million, while Kolton Miller commands $15.6 million as the team’s leading left tackle. Jeremy Chinn secures the highest salary among the defensive backs, with a contribution of $6.6 million. Maxx Crosby’s cap hit, while substantial at $38.1 million, benefits from a front-loaded contract structure that will see his impact on the cap diminish over the remaining years of his deal, particularly during the final three seasons when his cap hit is projected to be below $30 million. The Raiders also carry $44 million in dead cap, largely influenced by the contracts of Los Angeles Rams additions Jimmy Garoppolo and Davante Adams, which combined represent a $28.5 million investment. Furthermore, Gardner Minshew contributes $7.6 million, Andre James adds $7.2 million, and 2023 third-round draft pick Byron Young contributes $561,348, rounding out the dead cap figures.

Looking ahead, the team anticipates spending approximately $17 million to secure their draft class, with Ashton Jeanty expected to account for $6.5 million against the cap. This financial flexibility underscores the Raiders’ strategic approach, with $119 million in remaining space entering the 2026 season and Geno Smith’s excellent deal further solidifying the team’s position. Smith’s two-year extension sees his cap hit fall below $27 million in 2026 and below $40 million in 2027, reflecting a commitment to long-term financial stability. John Spytke and the Raiders possess considerable flexibility as they continue to build a championship-caliber roster.

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