In a surprising turn of events, veteran offensive guard Alex Cappa has announced his decision to leave the Las Vegas Raiders and sign with the Carolina Panthers. Cappa, who joined the Raiders in March 2025 after a stint with the Cincinnati Bengals, cited a desire for a “fresh start” and alignment with the Panthers’ organizational vision as key factors in his decision.
Cappa’s tenure with the Raiders was brief but notable. After struggling in the 2024 season with the Bengals, where he allowed a league-high in pressures among guards, Cappa aimed to revitalize his career in Las Vegas. However, after participating in offseason workouts and meetings, he felt that the Panthers offered a better fit for his skills and career aspirations.
“I have immense respect for the Raiders organization and Coach Pete Carroll,” Cappa stated. “But after careful consideration, I believe that joining the Panthers provides the best opportunity for me to contribute effectively and continue growing as a player.”
The Panthers, under new leadership, have been actively restructuring their offensive line, aiming to provide better protection for their quarterback and enhance their running game. Cappa’s experience and versatility are expected to be valuable assets in this endeavor.
In response to Cappa’s departure, Raiders Head Coach Pete Carroll expressed his disappointment but remained focused on the team’s objectives. “Alex is a talented player, and we wish him the best in Carolina,” Carroll said. “Our focus remains on building a cohesive and competitive team. The culture here is about resilience and adaptability, and we’re confident in the depth and talent of our roster.”
Carroll, known for his emphasis on competition and team culture, has been working diligently to instill a winning mentality within the Raiders organization. “It’s all about competition,” Carroll emphasized during his introductory press conference. “Either you’re competing or you’re not. If you want to be on a great team, you need to be a great teammate.”
The Raiders will now look to their existing roster and potential free agents to fill the void left by Cappa’s departure. With the NFL Draft approaching, the team may also consider selecting offensive line talent to bolster their depth.
As the Raiders navigate this transition, the organization remains committed to its vision of building a competitive and resilient team under Carroll’s leadership. The departure of Cappa, while unexpected, is seen as part of the evolving dynamics within the team as they strive for success in the upcoming season.