Raiders’ Offseason Program Sets the Tone for a Promising Season
When linebacker Robert Spillane joined the Las Vegas Raiders last March, he was immediately inspired by the dedication of the team’s leaders. Seeing veterans like Maxx Crosby and Kolton Miller already working out with the training staff motivated Spillane to stick around for the majority of the offseason and encourage his teammates to do the same. The leaders’ commitment to putting in the work set the tone for the rest of the team.
The Raiders officially kicked off Phase 1 of their voluntary offseason program on Monday. While they are limited to meetings, strength and conditioning, and rehab during this period, many players have been regularly attending workouts at the facility for weeks. The movement started shortly after Super Bowl LVIII, surprising the coaching staff who expected players to take time off to relax.
Coach Antonio Pierce expressed his shock at the players’ eagerness to be around during the offseason. He believes that the team’s culture and atmosphere have created an environment where players feel comfortable hanging out and putting in the work. The results will be evident in the spring and training camp.
Notable players like Crosby, Spillane, Miller, Davante Adams, Aidan O’Connell, Andre James, and John Jenkins have been consistent attendees at the facility. Their leadership has set an example for other players and created a sense of camaraderie and unity within the team.
The players’ consistent presence in the facility is a clear sign of their belief in Coach Pierce and their determination to improve. Despite finishing with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs last season, the Raiders have all the potential to achieve great things. However, as Crosby emphasized, potential means nothing unless they go out and prove it on the field.
The Raiders’ level of player participation this offseason is uncommon in the NFL but reminiscent of how things operate in college football. College players typically spend eight or nine months a year on campus, which has made the transition easier for younger players on the Raiders’ roster. Being together throughout the offseason builds chemistry and allows players to push each other to be better.
The state-of-the-art facility in Las Vegas is another factor that contributes to the players’ commitment. In the NFLPA player team report card, the Raiders ranked highly in various categories, including the weight room, food/cafeteria, nutritionist/dietician, locker room, and training room. The quality of the facility and staff makes it an attractive place for players to train and stay.
While teams are not yet allowed to conduct on-field work, the past couple of months have been instrumental in strengthening the culture that Coach Pierce began to instill last season. The atmosphere in the facility has been lively and personable, reflecting the players’ genuine enjoyment of being there. The positive vibe is a testament to Pierce’s ability to create a supportive and uplifting environment.
Spillane highlighted the inspiration he gets from being around young players who are eager to take his job. The competitive atmosphere pushes him to work harder and maintain his position on the team. This level of motivation was lacking under former coach Josh McDaniels, and it ultimately led to his firing.
Coach Pierce aims to maintain this positive environment and ensure that players come to work every day with joy and pride. He wants them to appreciate the opportunity to be part of the Raiders organization and contribute to something special.
The Raiders’ offseason program has set a strong foundation for the upcoming season. The players’ dedication, camaraderie, and belief in their coach create a sense of optimism and promise for the team. As they continue to put in the work and build on what they have started, the Raiders have the potential to achieve greatness in 2024.