Raiders Needed More from 3 High-Priced Veterans on Sunday

The Raiders played well enough to win on Sunday, but a few costly mistakes…

By Warren Mitchell · Raiders Beat

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 2:53 AM

Key Things to Know

Hondo Carpenter identified Jalen Nailor, Malcolm Koonce, and Tyler Linderbaum as underperforming veterans in the Raiders' loss to Buffalo.
Jalen Nailor has recorded only six receptions and zero touchdowns through six games on his $35 million contract.
Malcolm Koonce has seen his Pro Football Focus grades drop steadily over the past three weeks.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Sports Illustrated insider Hondo Carpenter and writer Warren Mitchell criticized Las Vegas Raiders veterans Jalen Nailor, Malcolm Koonce, and Tyler Linderbaum for their subpar performances in a loss to the Buffalo Bills. While quarterback Kirk Cousins and linebacker Nakobe Dean performed well, costly errors and Josh Allen's play led to the defeat.

Carpenter noted that Nailor has produced just six catches through six games despite his three-year, $35 million deal. Koonce and Linderbaum also drew scrutiny for declining grades, with Linderbaum struggling despite his historic three-year, $81 million center contract.

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Raiders Needed More from 3 High-Priced Veterans on Sunday

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