Las Vegas opens the 2025 season on the road vs New England with health as the key edge. Kyu Blu Kelly is expected to play after hamstring concerns, giving LV a steady starter at corner. Geno Smith anchors the offense, with Kenny Pickett as a trusted Week 1 backup after LV acquired him following O’Connell’s injury.

The Patriots enter with several injury questions, led by Christian Gonzalez (hamstring) and a handful of others limited or returning to practice. Aidan O’Connell’s earlier injury story adds context to LV’s Week 1 readiness, while Pete Carroll’s Raiders era begins with emphasis on depth, rotation, and execution.

Fantasy takeaway: Kelly’s health locks in a confident CB1/2 role for LV; Pickett’s presence could stabilize LV’s Week 1 floor while Gonzalez’s status could tilt NE’s WR matching. Expect LV’s offense to lean on Smith’s rhythm and Pickett’s veteran presence in crunch-time situational plays.