As the Las Vegas Raiders gear up for training camp, speculation looms over potential roster moves that could address lingering uncertainties on both sides of the ball. With ample cap space of $34.1 million available in free agency, according to Over the Cap, General Manager Tom Telesco has options to bolster the team’s depth and address any positional needs that may arise.

However, amidst the possibilities of signing free agents, the prospect of trades also remains on the table. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has identified three Raiders players who could potentially be traded: defensive end Malcolm Koonce, defensive tackle Adam Butler, and tight end Michael Mayer.

Knox’s rationale begins with Malcolm Koonce, noting that trading him could be advantageous given he is in the final year of his contract. This move could open up opportunities for Tyree Wilson, the former 7th overall pick, to assume a larger role in the defensive rotation. Koonce, at just 26 years old, has shown promise as the team’s second-best pass rusher, making him a valuable asset to the Raiders’ defensive strategy, particularly alongside standout Maxx Crosby. His potential as a long-term solution opposite Crosby makes him less likely to be traded, barring a compelling offer.

Adam Butler also finds himself on Knox’s list due to his contract situation and the emergence of Byron Young, a 2023 third-round pick. Butler, entering the final year of his deal, provides crucial depth at defensive tackle behind starters John Jenkins and Christian Wilkins. With the Raiders’ thin depth chart in this position group, Butler’s experience and reliability make him a vital insurance policy, especially while Young continues to develop and prove himself capable of handling increased responsibilities.

The inclusion of tight end Michael Mayer in trade speculation stems from the Raiders’ draft strategy, which saw them select Brock Bowers in the 2024 NFL Draft. Mayer, despite being a playmaker with solid blocking ability, faces competition with Harrison Bryant already in the fold. Mayer’s potential role in two-tight-end sets, a strategy utilized prominently by offensive coordinator Luke Getsy in his previous stint with the Chicago Bears, adds an intriguing dimension to the Raiders’ offensive playbook. The combination of Mayer and Bowers could create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses, enhancing the versatility and dynamism of the Raiders’ offensive schemes.

Despite Knox’s analysis, it remains unlikely that any of these three players will be traded before training camp. Each brings unique skills and potential contributions to the Raiders’ roster, and their departure would require a substantial offer or a high level of confidence in the depth behind them.

Koonce’s pass-rushing abilities and youth make him integral to the Raiders’ defensive plans, while Butler’s reliability as a backup defensive tackle provides essential depth in a critical position. Mayer, though potentially overshadowed by the addition of Bowers, offers a blend of receiving prowess and blocking skills that could significantly benefit the Raiders’ offensive strategies.

Ultimately, unless a compelling trade offer arises that significantly benefits the team’s overall roster composition, the Raiders are likely to retain Koonce, Butler, and Mayer heading into training camp. Each player brings valuable attributes that contribute to the team’s depth, competitiveness, and strategic flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.

As the offseason progresses and training camp approaches, the Raiders will continue evaluating their roster needs and exploring all avenues to enhance their competitiveness in the challenging AFC landscape. Whether through free agency or trade, General Manager Tom Telesco and the Raiders’ front office remain poised to make calculated moves that strengthen the team’s prospects for success in the upcoming season and beyond.