The new management of the Las Vegas Raiders has made it apparent that they are not satisfied with a gradual reconstruction. In an attempt to add quality, experience, and leadership to the roster right away, they have brought in a number of proven veterans through their aggressive free agency strategy. This strategy change indicates a strong desire to compete in the AFC West as quickly as possible, especially on the defensive end of the ball.
A closer look at a few of their noteworthy veteran acquisitions is provided below:
G. Alex Cappa
The Scoop: Alex Cappa was signed by the Raiders to a two-year, $11 million contract, immediately strengthening their offensive line. Having played for the Tampa Bay Bucs and Cincinnati Bengals, including winning Super Bowl LV with Tom Brady, Cappa is a seasoned right guard who brings a plethora of knowledge to the table.
Why It Is Important The Raiders’ commitment to enhancing their run game and giving their new quarterback better protection is demonstrated by Cappa’s signing. He is renowned for his perseverance and dependability, and the fact that he reunited with Raiders general manager John Spytek—who was in Tampa Bay when Cappa was selected—indicates that the franchise clearly recognises his value.
For younger offensive linemen like Jordan Meredith, Dylan Parham, and Jackson Powers-Johnson, his presence also brings mentorship and competition. One of the Bengals’ most reliable linemen, Cappa assisted the Buccaneers in allowing a league-low 23 sacks in 2021, according to Pro Football Focus.
Jeremy Chinn, S.
The Scoop: By signing safety Jeremy Chinn to a two-year, $16 million contract with over 75% fully guaranteed, the Raiders dramatically improved their secondary. After a successful “prove-it” season with the Washington Commanders, Chinn travels to Vegas.
Why It Is Important A versatile defender, Chinn can play at cornerback, in the box, and even in some linebacker positions. The Raiders’ defence greatly benefits from this adaptability. Chinn, who finished the season with 117 tackles with the Commanders, is anticipated to boost coverage and provide a playmaking presence to a Raiders secondary that had a rough season.
PFF graded him with a 70.3 overall and 73.9 in coverage when lined up in the box, and he ranked sixth among safeties in tackles resulting in a defensive stop. His addition helps fill the void left by departures like Tre’von Moehrig.
Devin White, LB
The Scoop Devin White, a former fifth overall pick and Pro Bowl selection, signed with the Raiders as an unrestricted free agency linebacker. After playing for the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, White now joins the Silver and Black.
Why It Is Important The Raiders’ linebacker corps benefits greatly from White’s exceptional agility and playmaking skills. One of just three NFL players since 2019 to have 500+ tackles and 20.0+ sacks, he has been a very prolific player throughout his career.
With 140 tackles and 9.0 sacks in 2020, he had a stellar season and helped the Bucs win the Super Bowl. The Raiders are drawn to him because of his potential and demonstrated ability to influence games, despite his inconsistent output.
Elandon Roberts, LB
The Inside Word: Elandon Roberts, a veteran linebacker with a wealth of experience and a leadership reputation, also joins the Raiders.
Why It Matters: Roberts is a proven leader who was a key member of Mike Tomlin’s and Bill Belichick’s defences. The Raiders needed a second-level leader after Robert Spillane left, and Roberts, who is starting his tenth season, is expected to fill that role and guide the team’s younger linebackers. His downhill play style and analytical grasp of the game complement Patrick Graham’s various defensive schemes.
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