NEWS FLASH: Las Vegas Raiders just signed two undrafted free agent rookies that the rest of the NFL forgot about…..

NEWS FLASH: Las Vegas Raiders Just Signed Two Undrafted Free Agent Rookies That the Rest of the NFL Forgot About

April 26, 2025 – Las Vegas, NV

In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Las Vegas Raiders have signed two undrafted free agent rookies that many around the league overlooked during the 2025 NFL Draft. These two players—wide receiver Cameron Hughes and linebacker Eli Thompson—were both considered long shots to make an NFL roster at the start of the draft process but have now found a home with the Raiders. The decision to bring these underdog players into the fold could prove to be a savvy move for Las Vegas as they continue to rebuild and reshape their team under head coach Josh McDaniels.

While undrafted free agents are often a dime a dozen, the Raiders’ decision to sign Hughes and Thompson is noteworthy for several reasons. Both players come with significant upside, having impressed in their college careers despite their lack of recognition during the draft. With some key departures on the team and a need for fresh talent, the Raiders are hoping that these rookies can defy the odds and make an immediate impact in Las Vegas.

Cameron Hughes: A Receiver With a Chip on His Shoulder

Cameron Hughes, a wide receiver out of Georgia State, was one of the biggest surprises of the offseason. Despite posting impressive numbers in college—racking up over 1,300 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in his final season—Hughes went undrafted, with many scouts questioning his ability to succeed at the NFL level. His lack of size (standing at 5’10” and weighing 185 pounds) was often cited as a major concern, and some analysts felt that he wasn’t explosive enough to make a lasting impression in the professional ranks.

But the Raiders saw something different.

Hughes brings exceptional hands and a football IQ that was evident in his performances against tough competition during his time at Georgia State. His speed and ability to make sharp, precise routes were what made him stand out in college, even if he wasn’t playing for a powerhouse program. What has impressed the Raiders’ coaching staff the most, however, is his work ethic and relentless attitude on the field.

Hughes has a chip on his shoulder after being passed over in the draft, and he’s determined to prove everyone wrong. He has spent the past year training rigorously, improving his conditioning and focusing on strengthening his route-running ability. His decision to sign with the Raiders was a strategic one, as Hughes believes the team offers him the best opportunity to thrive in a competitive wide receiver group.

“Being an undrafted guy is tough,” Hughes admitted in a recent interview. “But I’ve always been the underdog. I’m used to proving people wrong. I’ve got something to show, and I’m going to do everything I can to make this team.”

The Raiders’ receiving corps currently includes established veterans like Davante Adams and Hunter Renfrow, but with several younger players still fighting for their place, Hughes will have the chance to carve out a role for himself. If he can replicate the kind of success he had in college, he could be a valuable asset in the Raiders’ offense.

Eli Thompson: The Linebacker Who Was Always Overlooked

The second undrafted free agent the Raiders signed is Eli Thompson, a linebacker out of Western Kentucky. Despite being a standout player at the collegiate level, Thompson’s name was notably absent from the draft board this year. His incredible production—leading his team in both tackles and sacks in his final season—was overshadowed by the lack of hype around his small-school status. Thompson also struggled with injuries early in his career, which led some scouts to question his durability.

But the Raiders didn’t see those concerns as deal-breakers. Instead, they focused on Thompson’s playmaking ability and his relentless pursuit of the ball. Over his college career, he racked up more than 100 tackles and was a constant disruptive force in the backfield, showcasing his ability to read the quarterback and react quickly to plays. Thompson also has the kind of versatility that coaches covet, as he can play both inside and outside linebacker, giving the Raiders’ defense multiple options in terms of formations and schemes.

“He’s got a high motor,” said Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. “Eli plays with intensity, and he’s always around the ball. He’s got the instincts to be an effective linebacker in this league. His attitude is infectious, and we think he’s got the potential to be a real difference-maker for us.”

Thompson’s path to the NFL has been far from traditional, but he’s always had a strong belief in his abilities. He has a chance to prove that his success in college wasn’t a fluke and that he can translate his skills to the next level. With the Raiders having experienced some instability at linebacker in recent years, Thompson could emerge as a key contributor to their defensive rotation.

Why the Raiders Took a Chance

The decision to bring in Hughes and Thompson reflects a larger strategy by the Raiders’ front office and coaching staff to find hidden gems and undervalued talent. After a disappointing 2024 season, the Raiders are focused on building a team that can compete in the highly competitive AFC West, and they understand that success often comes from unexpected places.

By signing these undrafted players, the Raiders are betting on their raw talent, work ethic, and potential for development. The team has a history of finding success with under-the-radar players, including Khalil Mack and Darren Waller, both of whom were relatively unknown before they exploded onto the NFL scene. The hope is that Hughes and Thompson can follow a similar trajectory and prove that they belong among the best.

Additionally, both players have something to prove—Hughes, who was overlooked due to his size, and Thompson, whose small-school pedigree raised questions about his competition level. Their hunger to succeed could provide a significant boost to the Raiders, who need players with that level of determination and passion.

What’s Next for Hughes and Thompson?

Now that both players have signed with the Raiders, they will head into training camp with everything to prove. While neither Hughes nor Thompson is guaranteed a spot on the final roster, they will have every opportunity to showcase their skills during preseason games and practices. If they perform well and impress the coaching staff, there’s a good chance they will earn a place on the team, either on the active roster or the practice squad.

For Hughes, that means competing with other wide receivers like Renfrow and Adams for a spot on the depth chart. For Thompson, it means proving that he can hang with NFL-level athletes and adapt quickly to the speed of the game.

Both players have the talent to succeed, but whether or not they make the roster will ultimately come down to their ability to impress during training camp and preseason play. The Raiders are taking a chance on them, but the opportunity is there for Hughes and Thompson to make an impact.

As the Raiders continue to reshape their roster for the 2025 season, the signing of these undrafted free agents could turn out to be a stroke of genius—if they can make good on their potential.