Las Vegas Raiders Free Agency news: Analyzing NFL side's latest signings
The Las Vegas Raiders have been busy during NFL free agency as they look to rebuild following a disappointing 6-11 season in 2022.
With the release of quarterback Derek Carr, head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler are eager to make their mark on the team. The most significant moves have come on the offensive side, but the defense has seen some reinforcements as well.
Las Vegas Raiders signings
Cam Sims joins from the Washington Commanders, adding depth to the receiver position and the potential to excel on special teams. The massive Sims (6-foot-5, 220 pounds) will likely assume the role of the departed Mack Hollins as a special teams ace at gunner. With depth at receiver, Sims can focus on special teams contributions.
Former Buffalo Bills safety Jaquan Johnson added depth to the Raiders' safety position, alongside Marcus Epps and Tre'von Moehrig. Johnson, 27, projects more as depth, as he has started just four of the 60 career games he played for the Bills. He brings postseason experience, having appeared in eight playoff games for Buffalo.
O.J. Howard, previously with the Houston Texans, addressed the Raiders' need for an experienced tight end (following the trade of Darren Waller and Foster Moreau's entry into free agency). The 6-feet-6, 251-pound Howard has started 60 of the 74 career games in which he's played and caught 129 passes for 1,882 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Another OJ Howard touchdown! https://t.co/qQLK47U1hG
Jordan Willis, who played for the San Francisco 49ers, provides depth to the defensive line. He has spent the last two-plus seasons as a rotational player for the 49ers at both linebacker and defensive end, racking up 7.5 of his 10.5 career sacks with the Niners. Any extra push to help out Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones would be greatly welcomed in Las Vegas.
Jacob Bobenmoyer, formerly of the Denver Broncos, joins the Raiders on a three-year, $3.815 million contract, adding competition to the long-snapper position. Bobenmoyer spent the last three seasons with the Broncos, and his special teams coach there in 2020 and 2021 was current Raiders special teams coach Tom McMahon.
Las Vegas re-signed versatile offensive tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, bolstering their offensive line and providing protection for newly acquired Jimmy Garoppolo. Eluemunor's improvement last season and his ability to play different positions on the line make him a valuable asset to the team.
The Raiders re-signed backup center Hroniss Grasu, who provides depth and experience on the offensive line. Grasu's versatility and familiarity with the system make him a low-risk signing that could pay off in case of injuries.
Re-signing linebacker Curtis Bolton addresses the depth problem at the position. Primarily a special teams contributor, Bolton provides depth without much risk unless unexpectedly thrust into a starting role.
Defensive tackle Jerry Tillery was re-signed after showing potential in his eight-game stint with the team last season. Tillery provides a much-needed push from the interior defensive line, but Las Vegas will need consistent play from him to justify the signing.
Jerry Tillery doing Jerry Tillery things.
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The Raiders re-signed safety Roderic Teamer, who provides depth in the secondary and contributes on special teams. Teamer's familiarity with the defensive system should help the rebuilding defense maintain continuity.
Speedy wide receiver Phillip Dorsett adds another weapon for Garoppolo. Dorsett's deep-threat potential complements an offense that includes Davante Adams and Hunter Renfrow. His role as a complementary piece raises questions about his potential impact.
Fullback Jakob Johnson returns on a one-year deal, ensuring continuity at a valued position in McDaniels' offensive system. Johnson's lead blocking and occasional pass-catching ability make him a useful contributor to the team.
Linebacker Robert Spillane joins from Pittsburgh on a two-year deal, bringing much-needed run-stopping ability to the defense. However, Spillane's pass coverage skills are lacking, which could be a concern in the pass-heavy AFC West.
Cornerback Brandon Facyson has signed, a familiar face who provides size and experience at the position. Facyson's limited starting experience raises questions about his role and whether the Raiders will still target a cornerback in the draft or free agency.
Safety Marcus Epps signed a two-year deal, addressing a weak link in the defense. Although Epps excels against the run, his pass coverage skills remain a potential concern for the team.
The Raiders signed QB Jimmy Garoppolo to a three-year deal, making him their new starting quarterback. Garoppolo's experience in McDaniels' system and proven winning record make him an attractive option, but his injury history raises questions about his long-term viability.
@NFL Jimmy Garoppolo had some great moments with the 49ers
🎥 @NFL
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Notable Las Vegas Raiders departures
The Raiders faced a major shakeup in 2023, with the release of franchise quarterback Derek Carr, leaving the team to find a new leader under center.
The secondary was also hit hard with the departures of Rock Ya-Sin and Sidney Jones. Linebacker Denzel Perryman, safety Duron Harmon, and defensive tackle Andrew Billings have not been retained, leaving gaps in the defense.
Additionally, wide receiver Mack Hollins and defensive end Clelin Ferrell moved on, further reshuffling the roster as the team adjusts to a new era.