The Las Vegas Raiders are rebuilding the team following a disappointing 2024 NFL season. The arrival of head coach Pete Carroll has reignited hopes for a revamped roster, with Geno Smith set to be the starting quarterback. At the same time, Tom Brady, as a minority owner, is playing an influential role during this phase and is beginning to deal with contractual issues.
Part of managing a team involves dealing with the emotions within the roster. With Carroll now in charge, the offseason training period serves as a key opportunity to evaluate who will be part of the experienced coach’s plans. In this context, Brady’s Raiders are facing an unexpected attitude from one of their standout players.
The unusual situation involves Raiders left tackle Kolton Miller, who chose not to report for the start of the team’s voluntary offseason workout program, which began on April 8, 2025. The 29-year-old veteran is entering the final year of his current contract, with a base salary of $12.2 million and no guaranteed money remaining.
Why was Miller absent from training?
Miller’s absence is being interpreted as a strategy to apply pressure for a contract extension. New general manager John Spytek has stated that he will not discuss contract matters publicly, emphasizing that participation in these activities is voluntary.
Kolton Miller of the Las Vegas Raiders
Miller’s impact on the Raiders
Kolton Miller is considered a key player for Las Vegas. A first-round pick in the 2018 Draft, he has been the starting left tackle ever since, starting 107 of 109 possible games. He is the longest-tenured player on the current roster and is the heart of the offensive line for the team.
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In the 2024 season, Miller was the only Raiders offensive lineman to start all 17 games, standing out for his consistency and leadership on a young offensive line. For Brady and the Raiders’ front office, addressing the absence of the experienced 29-year-old veteran is a top priority, as it’s a situation that could significantly impact the franchise.
