Las Vegas (KSNV) — The Las Vegas Raiders put on pads for the first time during their 2025 training camp on Monday, July 28, 2025.
Details of the first padded practice:
This marked the shift from the initial “acclimation period” of training camp, where practices are typically conducted in just helmets and shorts, to a more physical phase.
The practice involved increased intensity, with a focus on one-on-one and team drills.
While there was plenty of contact and “thumping,” the Raiders did not engage in tackling to the ground due to health and safety precautions, according to The New York Times.
Notable observations from the session included the offensive line holding up well against the defensive line, Maxx Crosby being tough to handle as usual, and undrafted free agent Jah Joyner impressing in drills.
Rookie wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. continued to impress, catching a long touchdown pass from Geno Smith during the practice.
NFL Regulations:
NFL teams are generally allowed 16 padded practices during training camp, but a five-day acclimation period is required at the start of camp before full pads can be worn.
Padded practices cannot be held on more than three consecutive days.
The Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) also specifies limits on padded practices during the regular season and postseason.
This first padded practice session marks a significant step in the Raiders’ preparation for the upcoming 2025 NFL season, allowing them to increase the physicality and intensity of their training