Breaking down how three potential cut candidates can make the Raiders’ 53-man roster
The preseason is often overlooked, as it's the week before the regular season starts, the win or loss really doesn't matter record-wise, and the starters aren't playing. So, fans sometimes overlook this game as one that isn't important, but it's extremely important for the Las Vegas Raiders, and every other team around the NFL.By this […]
The preseason is often overlooked, as it's the week before the regular season starts, the win or loss really doesn't matter record-wise, and the starters aren't playing. So, fans sometimes overlook this game as one that isn't important, but it's extremely important for the Las Vegas Raiders, and every other team around the NFL.
By this stage, teams are finalizing their 53-man roster. Preseason Week 3 is often the last chance for players on the bubble to make a case for themselves. This game could be crucial for undrafted free agents, rookies, and veterans fighting for a spot or a particular role on the team. The Raiders have to go from 90 players to 53 before Week 1 of the regular season, and preseason Week 3 will help them determine that.
With many starters sitting out or playing minimally, this game provides an opportunity to see how the depth chart holds up. For the Raiders, this means evaluating not just the backups but also how well the third-string players perform, which can influence practice squad decisions or trade considerations.
So, without further ado, let's go over three roster bubble guys who have a chance to make the 53-man roster this weekend if they do certain things against the San Francisco 49ers, their last preseason opponent after losses to the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys.
Raiders' three potential cut candidates
WR Ramel Keyton
At Tennessee, Keyton initially played behind a stacked wide receiver room but found his opportunity when injuries and other factors opened up roles. His breakout came in the 2022 season, where he caught 31 passes for 562 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make big plays, notably with a memorable catch against Florida. His performance in 2023 was even more impressive, with career highs in receptions (35) and yards (642), averaging over 18 yards per catch, which highlighted his role as a vertical threat.
After not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Keyton signed with the Raiders as an undrafted free agent. His preseason performance with the Raiders has been noted, particularly in camp where he showed promise, although his stats from the preseason games indicate he's still finding his footing in the NFL, with one reception for 8 yards in the games played so far.
Against the 49ers, he has to have a huge game. He's on the outside looking in, as maybe the seventh receiver on the roster. Now, the Raiders could keep seven WRs, but they likely won't. However, if he goes off for a high-yardage game, scores a touchdown, and just does the things he's supposed to do, like catch crucial passes to convert big downs, there's no way they can leave a guy as talented as Keyton off the roster. Keyton would bring a very different body type to the WR room that they really don't have. He has a huge, strong frame, and is pretty fast as a deep, vertical threat. He'd be useful to have.
RB Dylan Laube
Laube played at New Hampshire, which is why he was taken so low in the draft. His college stats are impressive, with significant contributions in rushing, receiving, and kick returns. In 2022, he was named FCS All-American, and in 2023, he repeated this honor, showcasing his versatility with over 1,200 rushing yards in 2022 and nearly 700 receiving yards in 2023, alongside numerous touchdowns.
Laube was selected by the Raiders in the 6th round of the 2024 NFL Draft, which was a testament to his unique skill set. His draft position reflects the NFL's recognition of his potential as a versatile back, capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. Laube has made it known that he is willing to do anything it takes to play, even play special teams and defense if he has to.
So far, he has been a fan favorite. In the Raiders' camp, Laube has been making waves, with reports from training camp suggesting he's been one of the pleasant surprises. His versatility and gritty playstyle have earned him praise from coaches, indicating he's on track to secure a roster spot, possibly focusing on roles where his receiving and special teams skills can be utilized. But, he's still a bubble roster guys, as there are at least three running backs ahead of him on the roster.
To make the 53-man roster, Laube will just have to continue to make plays with the limited snaps he's given. And, if that means going out there on special teams and making a play, then he has to do that. Laube hasn't made the most of his reps yet, as he averaged just 2.7 yards per carry last game, but if he can showcase a few nice runs, he may make the roster.
DB Woo Governor
Governor, who played FCS football, is known for his agility, ball-hawking skills, and the ability to force turnovers, which are critical for a cornerback. His college stats indicate a player who can both cover effectively and make plays on the ball. Despite not being drafted, Governor's skills, particularly his ability to read plays and his physicality, made him an attractive prospect for teams looking for depth or special teams contributors.
Governor is part of the Raiders' training camp roster as a signed-on UDFA, aiming to prove his worth in training camp and preseason games. His role might initially be as a depth cornerback or special teams player, but his journey in the NFL could see him grow into a more significant role if he can translate his college success to the professional level.
Governor is a guy who has been getting some pretty great reps during the preseason, but as per my depth chart projections and depending on how many players the Raiders keep on the secondary, Governor could easily be on the outside looking in. I currently have him as the first guy left out, but after reviewing some tape and seeing what he could do against the 49ers, he could be a guy that makes the 53-man roster.
He needs more reps, really, that's it. He led the Raiders in total tackles last game and even played some reps with a few starters. If he can keep that consistency going, he will make the roster.
