The Las Vegas Raiders will face the Denver Broncos on Sunday with several key players ruled out, including wide receiver Davante Adams and running back Zamir White. Adams, a six-time Pro Bowler, is sidelined with a hamstring injury and is currently away from the team amid trade speculation. White, who suffered a groin injury during Wednesday’s practice, has not participated since. Their absence is a significant blow to the Raiders’ offensive lineup as they prepare for a critical divisional game.
In addition to Adams and White, the Raiders will also be missing several other starters. Right tackle Thayer Munford Jr., linebacker Luke Masterson, and tight end Michael Mayer are all out due to injuries or personal reasons. Safety Trey Taylor and cornerback Decamerion Richardson will also be unavailable for Sunday’s game. These losses compound the Raiders’ recent struggles with injuries, further challenging their depth as they head into Week 5.
Three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby is listed as questionable due to a high ankle sprain sustained in Week 2. Crosby returned to practice on Friday after nearly two weeks of absence but was limited in participation. He missed last week’s win against the Cleveland Browns, marking the first time he has missed a game in his six-year career. His potential return could provide a much-needed boost to the Raiders’ defense, which has leaned heavily on Crosby’s 3.0 sacks so far this season.
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce acknowledged the team’s injury woes but emphasized that dealing with injuries is part of the game, especially by Week 5 of the NFL season. Despite the challenges, the team remains focused on preparing for the Broncos. Rookie linebacker Tommy Eichenberg is expected to start in place of Masterson, while Divine Deablo’s status remains uncertain due to an oblique injury.
On the offensive side, Alexander Mattison will take over the running back duties in White’s absence. Mattison has been effective in limited action this season, rushing for 87 yards and two touchdowns while averaging 5.1 yards per carry. However, with White leading the Raiders with 152 rushing yards, his absence leaves a gap in the team’s running game that Mattison will need to fill against a tough Denver defense.
