The Las Vegas Raiders are entering the upcoming season with a significant opportunity at multiple positions, particularly within their special teams unit. Following a strategic overhaul of the coaching staff and a revamped roster, the Silver and Black are meticulously assembling their personnel, focusing heavily on maximizing potential across the board. While the Raiders’ revamped offense and the defensive adjustments will undoubtedly be under intense scrutiny, the team is aggressively developing its special teams capabilities, a key area for success in today’s NFL. Special Teams Coordinator Tom McMahon has emphasized the heightened level of competition and engagement within the unit, highlighting a widespread desire among players to contribute as returners and coverage specialists. McMahon stated, "Everybody wants to be the returner. Everybody wants to cover kicks." This intense competition reflects a core philosophy: production is the primary driver of value in the league, and the Raiders are committed to pushing players to their absolute limits.

McMahon’s comments detail the extensive practice regimen being implemented. He revealed that the Raiders are consistently generating a remarkable volume of reps for their return and coverage units. During field goal periods, they’re fielding anywhere from 50 to 60 kicks, primarily focused on challenging players with high hang times and demanding catches. Kickoff periods see approximately 25 to 30 reps, mirroring the punt returns. This isn’t simply about volume; McMahon is deliberately prioritizing difficult scenarios, aiming to build a roster capable of handling the most challenging balls in the game. He explained, "We’re shooting jugs during field goal period. Kickoff period, we get probably 25 to 30 reps."

The Raiders’ recent additions of talented skill players further amplify this opportunity. With a wealth of options available, McMahon is carefully evaluating a multitude of factors when determining which players will serve as the team’s returners. He acknowledged that the decision isn’t solely based on a player’s initial ability to handle the ball – it’s about providing the necessary practice reps to develop that capability. McMahon stated, "I would say 100 percent. And when I say 100 percent, it’s not can you field it, it’s we have to provide that many practice reps." This approach allows even rookies, who might initially struggle with basic drills – such as securing a ball at the seven with a 2.9 hang time – to develop the skills and confidence required to succeed in live game situations. The team is now fielding balls that these players couldn’t touch just five weeks ago, showcasing the impact of dedicated practice. McMahon emphasized, "We’ve got guys that got here as rookies, and they couldn't get to a ball at the seven that was a 2.9 hang time, and now they're standing underneath it having a cup of coffee, talking to their folks, and doing a great job with it." This deliberate focus on practice – "Practice is everything" – underscores the Raiders’ strategy for building a competitive and reliable special teams unit. The team is strategically challenging players to build a roster capable of handling the most difficult balls in the game. The Silver and Black are committed to maximizing potential across the board.