Raiders preview battles for kicker, long snapper, and returner positions
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 7:07 PM
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
The Las Vegas Raiders begin training camp preparations amid key positional battles on special teams. Kicker Matt Gay and Kansei Matsuzawa vie for the starting role, with both bringing distinct experiences. Long snapper Alex Ward faces competition from Tyler Duzansky, who has a strong UDFA contract. Kick returner position remains uncertain, with Dareke Young, Tre Tucker, and Dylan Laube all contending for the job. The Raiders seek improvement after a disappointing 3-14 season.
- •Raiders will hold training camp in six weeks for special teams competitions.
- •Matt Gay struggled last season, while Kansei Matsuzawa had an All-American performance.
- •Duzansky received one of the largest UDFA contracts for a long snapper.
- •Dareke Young, Tre Tucker, and Dylan Laube are competing for the kick returner role.
- •The Raiders hope to rebuild after a poor 2025 season.
- 7:07 PMYahoo Sports — Las Vegas Raiders Special Teams Positional Battles to Watch
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