The Las Vegas Raiders are shaking things up at wide receiver, and the Tyler Lockett era is officially underway. On Monday, the team announced they’ve signed the veteran pass-catcher after waiving 25-year-old Justin Shorter to clear a roster spot.
Lockett, a former Pro Bowler with deep ties to head coach Pete Carroll from their Seattle days, was rumored to join the Raiders in the offseason. Instead, he landed with the Tennessee Titans—only for that stint to fizzle out quickly. After requesting his release, the 33-year-old speedster is now headed to the desert.
Shorter, a 2023 fifth-round pick by the Buffalo Bills, joined the Raiders last season and stuck on the active roster through seven games this year. But his role was limited: just five offensive snaps and heavy special teams duty. The Raiders clearly value his potential, and he’s a prime candidate to return via the practice squad if he clears waivers—unless another team swoops in.
Don’t let the age fool you—Lockett’s résumé speaks volumes. He’s earned three All-Pro nods as a return specialist and posted four 1,000-yard receiving seasons in his career. Even in a down 2024 (600 yards) and a quiet 2025 start (70 yards), his experience is undeniable.
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Most importantly? Chemistry with Geno Smith. The Raiders’ quarterback has been struggling mightily, but Lockett is a proven security blanket from their Seattle days. A familiar target could be exactly what Smith needs to regain confidence and rhythm.
With the NFL trade deadline looming, all eyes are on Jakobi Meyers—the Raiders’ leading receiver (42 targets despite missing Week 7) on an expiring deal. Meyers reportedly wanted a new contract and even requested a trade before the season, but nothing materialized.
Now, with Lockett in the fold, moving Meyers becomes more feasible. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports:
“Meyers appears poised for 2026 free agency… Multiple execs told me they believe the team is open to a deal but is not actively looking for trade partners. Another believes the Raiders would prefer to wait until after the season… due in part to the presence of Pete Carroll.”
Translation: The Raiders are listening—but they’re not desperate. The next two weeks of offers will likely decide Meyers’ fate.