The Las Vegas Raiders have had a relatively quiet offseason under new leadership in head coach Pete Carroll and GM John Spytek, highlighted by a trade for quarterback Geno Smith and a massive extension for Maxx Crosby. However, a new wrinkle emerged this week that could change the team’s outlook heading into the NFL Draft.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that left tackle Kolton Miller was not present at voluntary workouts, sparking speculation about his future. Miller has no guaranteed money left on his deal, and fans — and league observers — are now questioning whether a holdout or even a trade could be looming.
Miller, widely considered one of the league’s top offensive tackles, has yet to enter extension negotiations with the Raiders. Fans took to social media, urging the team to act fast. “Kolton Miller isn’t holding out yet because it’s voluntary. But this feels like it could turn into one,” one fan wrote. Another added, “He’s one of the league’s best OTs — the Raiders need to lock him in.”
Some even believe the situation could affect the team’s draft plans, particularly with rumors linking Las Vegas to Missouri right tackle Armand Membou. “Start setting your expectations on the Raiders taking an OT at 6,” one fan tweeted, suggesting that draft buzz around Membou may be more than just smoke.
Raiders fans weren’t the only ones paying attention. Patriots supporters quickly chimed in online, lobbying for New England to make a move for Miller. “He’s a Patriot,” one said, while another tagged team officials with a blunt message: “MAKE A TRADE NOW.”
Though there’s no immediate crisis in Vegas, locking up Miller before next week’s draft could bring clarity and stability to the franchise’s short- and long-term plans.
