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Jakobi Meyers’ future with the Las Vegas Raiders continues to hang in the balance. Months after asking out of Las Vegas during the offseason, the veteran wide receiver has made it clear that his stance remains unchanged. As the NFL’s Nov. 4 trade deadline draws near, Meyers reaffirmed this week that he still hopes to be moved, even as the Raiders struggle to find their footing in the AFC West under first-year head coach Pete Carroll.
For Meyers, the trade request isn’t about a lack of professionalism — it’s about finding the right fit. “Oh, for sure,” he said when asked if he still wanted a trade. “But I’m a professional at the end of the day. I’m just trying to play good football. If I’m here, I’ll play good football. If I’m not here, I’ll go out there and play wherever I’m supposed to be.”
Contract Stalemate Fuels Frustration
Meyers’ frustrations date back to the offseason, when contract talks with the Raiders broke down after a career year. The 28-year-old entered 2025 in the final season of a three-year, $33 million deal he signed in 2023, hoping to secure an extension that reflected his production. Instead, negotiations stalled before training camp, prompting his initial trade request.
“That window kind of just closed with the offseason,” Meyers said. “If it gets done, I don’t care for real. I just want to be in a good spot for me [and] my family.”
Meyers led the Raiders with 1,027 receiving yards last season and has topped 800 yards in each of the past four years. His reliability and route-running make him one of the most consistent slot options in the league — and an attractive target for contending teams.
Raiders’ Offense Searching for Identity
At 2–5, Las Vegas has yet to find a consistent rhythm offensively. The Raiders have scored fewer than 10 points in three games this season, and injuries have tested their depth at receiver. Tight end Brock Bowers has missed time, while Tre Tucker has emerged as the team’s leading receiver in yardage and touchdowns.
Even so, Meyers remains tied for the team lead with 29 catches through six games, underscoring his value amid a struggling attack. His frustration appears rooted not in production, but in the team’s uncertain direction and lack of progress under Carroll’s new system.
Locker Room Humor Amid Trade Rumors
Inside the locker room, the ongoing trade speculation has become a source of lighthearted banter. Meyers said teammates often joke about potential trades to ease the tension that comes with uncertainty.
“Everybody’s a comedian around this thing,” Meyers said. “When we see our names pop up, guys are like, ‘What time’s your flight?’ It’s all fun and games. I like hearing the jokes as long as guys are willing to talk about it. If they got an issue, I’ll be open with them.”
Despite the rumors, Meyers said the locker room remains close-knit and focused on competing. “Everybody still very much cares about winning. We’re out here fighting,” he said. “It’s a new regime. We are trying.”
Injury Update and Return Timeline
Meyers missed Sunday’s 31–0 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs due to a knee and toe injury suffered against the Tennessee Titans in Week 6. He returned to practice on Tuesday and expects to be ready following the team’s bye week for the Nov. 2 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“It wasn’t cool sitting on the bench watching guys lose like that,” Meyers said. “I definitely just want to go out there, do my part [and] hopefully bring a little spark to the offense.”
What’s Next for Meyers and the Raiders?
If the Raiders revisit trade discussions, Meyers’ market could heat up quickly. The New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers — both in need of reliable receiving help — stand out as possible suitors. A reunion with the New England Patriots, where Meyers began his career, also remains plausible as rookie quarterback Drake Maye continues to develop.
For now, Meyers continues to prepare as if he’ll remain in silver and black, even if his heart might be elsewhere. Hopefully, next week will determine whether he finishes the season in Las Vegas or gets the fresh start he’s been waiting for.
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