The Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2025 NFL season with high hopes for their offense under the guidance of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. However, the unit has been a major disappointment, languishing in the bottom-10 of nearly every key offensive statistic. The passing game, in particular, has been abysmal, ranking 29th in yards and 28th in touchdowns. Quarterback Geno Smith has struggled significantly, tying for the league lead in interceptions and failing to build chemistry with his receiving corps. Notably, Tre Tucker is the only wide receiver to have caught a touchdown pass this season.
Amid this offensive turmoil, the future of wide receiver Jakobi Meyers with the Raiders remains uncertain as the November 4 trade deadline approaches. Meyers, who enjoyed a career-best 2024 season with over 1,000 receiving yards, has been vocal about his frustration over the lack of a contract extension. He recently confirmed his desire to be traded, putting the Raiders in a position to consider reshaping their receiving unit.
In a potential blockbuster move, the Raiders could target recently released wide receiver Tyler Lockett to replace Meyers. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Lockett, a three-time All-Pro, requested and was granted his release from the Tennessee Titans on Monday. “Veteran WR Tyler Lockett has asked for and received his release from the Tennessee Titans, per source. Lockett is expected to be free to sign with another team after 4 pm ET Wednesday,” Schefter noted.
Lockett, who spent the first ten years of his career with the Seattle Seahawks, has a deep history with both Raiders quarterback Geno Smith and former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. Lockett played under Carroll for nine seasons, earning three All-Pro selections and a Pro Bowl nod. Additionally, he spent his final three years in Seattle with Smith as his quarterback, developing a strong on-field connection. This familiarity could provide a much-needed spark for Smith and the Raiders’ struggling passing attack.
Lockett’s tenure with the Titans this season was underwhelming, as he struggled to build chemistry with rookie quarterback Cam Ward. In seven games, he recorded just 10 receptions for 70 yards on 21 targets, playing a career-low 44.8% of offensive snaps. His playing time further decreased over the last three weeks, dropping to a mere 28.2% of snaps. Despite this dip in production, Lockett’s experience and proven track record make him an intriguing option for Las Vegas.
While Lockett may not be the dominant force he once was, his addition could bolster a Raiders wide receiver room that has been lackluster in 2025. His prior chemistry with Smith could help stabilize the quarterback’s performance and provide a reliable target in the passing game. If the Raiders decide to move on from Meyers, acquiring Lockett could be a strategic move to salvage their offense and capitalize on existing relationships to turn their season around.