Raiders Activate Thornton, Waive Laulu

Las Vegas Raiders fans can expect a change at wide receiver as the team activated Dont'e Thornton Jr. off injured reserve Tuesday. The move provides immediate depth for a unit that has struggled to generate production this season.

To clear a roster spot, the Raiders waived Jonah Laulu, a former starting defensive tackle from the local area. Laulu had been placed on the inactive list for Sunday's 35-21 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. He recorded five tackles in five games this year after starting 22 games in his first two seasons.

Thornton faced a Wednesday deadline to return to the active roster, remain on season-ending injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, or be released or traded. The player indicated he was ready to play last week, leading the team to activate him. He was drafted in the fourth round last year and started eight games in his rookie campaign.

Thornton caught 10 passes for 135 yards with no touchdowns in 2025. He described the return to the field as a fresh start under first-year coach Klint Kubiak. "My last year was my first year, so it was a lot for me," Thornton said. "It's a new system, so it's really like my first year all over again."

The Raiders' passing game has relied heavily on tight ends and running back Ashton Jeanty. Tre Tucker has been the primary wideout, totaling 29 catches for 474 yards and four touchdowns. Jack Bech, who has a broken forearm, opened his 21-day window to come off injured reserve Monday. Bech had five receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown in three games before his injury.