Las Vegas Raiders eye rookie Japanese kicker and offseason upgrades

Las Vegas Raiders Kansei Matsuzawa John Spytek NFL offseason Japanese kicker

The Las Vegas Raiders are rebuilding after a 3‑win 2025 season that earned them the No. 1 overall pick, which they used on quarterback Fernando Mendoza. In addition to the new quarterback, the team signed undrafted kicker Kansei Matsuzawa, a Japanese‑born former Hawaii Rainbow Warrior who posted a 27‑of‑29 field‑goal record and perfect extra‑point conversion in 2025, earning All‑American honors and the nickname “The Tokyo Toe.” Matsuzawa says he believes in himself and will compete with veteran Matt Gay for the starting kicking job, or at least a practice‑squad role.

General manager John Spytek praised the Raiders’ draft and free‑agency class, calling it a “stellar” offseason despite a disappointing debut season. He expressed optimism about the team’s future as the new players settle in and the roster improves.

Both Matsuzawa’s confidence and Spytek’s positive outlook highlight the Raiders’ focus on developing talent and strengthening the squad ahead of the upcoming NFL campaign.

Sources

Rookie Kicker 'Tokyo Toe' Kansei Matsuzawa Opens Up on His Chances with the Raiders [heavy.com]

2 months ago

How John Spytek and the Las Vegas Raiders won the offseason [www.reviewjournal.com]

2 months ago