Dont'e Thornton

ANALYSIS
Thornton was expected to be more of a developmental project when the Raiders selected him 108th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Tennessee, but a 10-135-0 receiving line for the 6-foot-5, 205-pound burner was still a major disappointment considering the underwhelming target competition in Las Vegas. That being said, Thornton could compete for a starting WR role on the outside across from Tre Tucker in 2026 if the new regime doesn't address the position in the offseason, though tight end Brock Bowers (knee) is set to remain a focal point in the passing game as well. Nonetheless, fellow rookie receiver Jack Bech was a slightly more productive option than Thornton down the stretch.

ANALYSIS
The 2025 fourth-round pick out of Tennessee has the size and speed to be a vertical threat for Las Vegas, and he flashed those traits Monday when he blew past cornerback Darien Porter to get under a deep pass from Smith. Veteran wideout Jakobi Meyers and tight end Brock Bowers are locked in as the Raiders' top pass catchers, but Thornton is competing with Tre Tucker and fellow rookie Jack Bech for the other starting spot opposite Meyers in 12 personnel, which the team figures to use frequently under new coach Pete Carroll.