Dont’e Thornton returns to Raiders practice and moves closer to activation

Second-year wide receiver Dont’e Thornton has taken an important step toward getting back on the field. The Las Vegas Raiders’ official site announced that the young pass-catcher has been designated to return and participated in practice.

Thornton opened the season on injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury during training camp and being moved to IR at final roster cuts. With his return to practice, the club has started a 21-day window in which it can add him back to the 53-man roster.

Hamstring setback leads to carefully managed return

Although Thornton is now eligible to be activated at any point during that period, the team is expected to be deliberate with his workload given the nature of soft-tissue injuries. Hamstring issues can linger, and clubs often ease players back to avoid a setback, especially with a developing receiver early in his career.

Thornton emphasized that his focus is simply on being ready when called upon. “I just want to go out there, play football, have fun and help my team be the best they can be,” he said, adding that he is prepared to do whatever the coaching staff asks.

Former fourth-round pick has path to role in passing game

The Raiders drafted Thornton in the fourth round in 2025 out of Tennessee. As a rookie, he saw significant playing time, appearing in 15 games and drawing eight starts. His production was limited, however, as he finished that campaign with 10 receptions for 135 yards.

Las Vegas’ current situation at wide receiver could give him another opportunity to carve out snaps. The active depth chart includes Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor, Cody White, Dareke Young and sixth-round rookie Malik Benson. On the practice squad, the Raiders are carrying Phillip Dorsett, Deven Thompkins and Tyler Scott.

With several complementary roles still up for grabs behind the team’s top options, Thornton’s familiarity with the offense and prior starting experience could work in his favour once he is fully healthy. How he looks over the next few weeks of practice will likely determine whether the Raiders move quickly to activate him, or take the full 21 days before making a roster decision.