Geno Smith's latest outing vs. the Chargers isn’t the end of the Raiders’ quarterback debate, but a reminder that growth is needed with a young cast. The mailbag sees potential top-12 upside for Smith if he refines anticipation and decision-making. Ashton Jeanty’s burst stands out, yet eight missed tackles on 30 carries and an elite-but-necessary line improvement loom as the key to unlocking the Raiders’ rushing attack. The piece weighs interior-line shuffles, Parham’s role, and potential inserts as the season unfolds, using Barkley behind an elite line as a yardstick for what blocking can unlock. It also highlights Washington’s looming test and the ongoing push-pull across coaching decisions and personnel.

Overall, the message is cautious optimism: don’t panic over one game, but recognize the trenches must improve for the offense to reach its ceiling. The discussion points toward a real chance for incremental upgrades—from Putnam and Rogers to Powers-Johnson at center—and a few shuffles that could stabilize the Raiders’ run game and protect Smith as the season progresses.

Las Vegas add Terrell Edmunds to shore up a thinning secondary after Lonnie Johnson Jr. suffered an injury that will keep him out for a stretch. Edmunds, a veteran safety with a first-round pedigree, immediately injects experience into a room led by two hopefuls in Chris Smith and Trey Taylor.

Edmunds’ track record—79 games, 75 starts, 410 tackles across five seasons with Pittsburgh, plus stops with Philadelphia, Tennessee and a brief Jaguars stint—gives the Raiders a steadying presence. He figures to be in the mix as a depth piece and could slide into a larger role if Pola-Mao or Chinn (or another veteran) were to miss time. For fantasy, Edmunds isn’t a big splash, but the extra floor in tackles and occasional passes defended could help deeper leagues if he wins regular snaps.

The Detroit Lions’ defensive line remains a focal point with Alim McNeill and DJ Reader leading the charge into the 2025 season. Both players brought significant production last year, with a combined 6.5 sacks and 49 quarterback hurries. McNeill, under contract until 2028, had a standout 2024 season, achieving a Pro Football Focus grade of 79.6. Reader, signed through 2025, contributed with three sacks in 15 games.

However, concerns about depth loom as the team navigates free agency. Levi Onwuzurike, a key contributor slated to hit free agency, may be re-signed, while Pat O’Connor’s underwhelming performance may lead to his departure. Rookie Mekhi Wingo showed promise, while veteran Kyle Peko’s future is uncertain after an injury-plagued season.