Raiders sign WR Dont'e Thornton as Geno Smith takes charge under Tom Brady's watchful eye

The Raiders are entering a new phase with veteran quarterback Geno Smith leading the offense and rookie wideout Dont’e Thornton joining the ranks. With Tom Brady ’s growing influence in the front office, Las Vegas is building a roster that blends experience, potential, and a renewed focus on long-term success.

Geno Smith’s poise and Dont’e Thornton’s potential headline Raiders’ ambitious rebuild
Geno Smith, who resurrected his career with the Seattle Seahawks, brings a sense of maturity and composure that the Raiders have sorely lacked in recent years. His back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons and over 4,300 passing yards last year underline not just talent but resilience a trait that resonates strongly with Brady, who famously rose from a sixth-round pick to become one of the game’s greatest.

#Raiders rookie receivers working the ladder and comebacks

Good size in that group with Jack Bech (18) and Dont’e Thornton Jr. (10) pic.twitter.com/IZPaLCqSqn

— Jesse Merrick (@JesseNews3LV) May 9, 2025

Now, Smith steps into a leadership role in Las Vegas with high expectations. He isn’t just expected to throw passes he’s expected to set the tone for a team that is actively moving away from inconsistency and chaos. His calm presence and work ethic could prove crucial in a locker room undergoing a cultural reset.

The Las Vegas Raiders have officially added another promising talent to their roster, reaching an agreement with wide receiver Dont’e Thornton to sign a four-year rookie contract worth around $5.25 million.

The former University of Tennessee standout, known for his explosive speed and playmaking ability, is expected to make an immediate impact on the field.

Thornton’s deal also includes a signing bonus of $1,050,896, giving him a solid financial foundation as he transitions into the NFL. For his first year, Thornton will earn a base salary of $840,000, with his pay increasing over the next few seasons: $1,005,000 in 2026, $1,120,000 in 2027, and $1,235,000 in 2028.

This structure allows him to develop while gradually being rewarded for his contributions on the field. Thornton will have the chance to test the market as an unrestricted free agent in 2029, opening doors for potential long-term success.

"In addition to being a deep threat on the field-being a big, fast guy honestly, they're just bringing a good guy into the program. A guy who will do whatever it takes to make the team better. Giving my 1% all the time. Show up, be a great teammate."

Thornton remarked following his selection by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Thornton joins a Raiders team under significant cultural transformation, with Tom Brady’s influence shaping the organization. As a minority owner, Brady is instilling a sense of discipline and focus on long-term success, helping players like Thornton thrive in a structured environment.

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Meanwhile, Geno Smith, the veteran quarterback, takes on the role of leading the offense. After reviving his career with the Seahawks, Smith now provides the stability the Raiders need, while Brady’s leadership continues to steer the team toward a future built on consistency and growth. With both veterans guiding the way, the Raiders are poised to make strides with emerging talents like Thornton.