#las_vegas_raiders

Las Vegas Raiders Project Final 53-Man Roster for 2026 NFL Season The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for their 2026 NFL regular season, set to open on September 13 against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. Before the season begins, the team must finalize its 53-man roster by 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, following a final preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers. Coach Klint Kubiak, entering his first season in Las Vegas, faces the challenge of building a competitive team with a young core, while addressing key positional needs and potential roster cuts. The Raiders’ decision-making process will focus on balancing depth, experience, and the potential for future development. At the quarterback position, the Raiders have opted to keep two players: Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza. Kubiak emphasized that both are NFL-ready, with Mendoza, the team’s No. 1 draft pick, showing readiness to step in if needed. Aidan O’Connell, however, may be a trade candidate for a team seeking a quarterback with starter experience. The decision to limit the quarterback group to two reflects the team’s confidence in Cousins’ leadership and Mendoza’s upside, while also managing salary cap constraints. The running back position presents a mix of established talent and emerging prospects. Ashton Jeanty, the team’s top returning player, is expected to anchor the backfield, but the 2026 fourth-round pick, Mike Washington Jr., has shown enough to challenge for the No. 2 role. The Raiders’ rushing attack has struggled in recent seasons, and the combination of Jeanty and Washington could provide a much-needed boost. Fullback Trey Heyward, a key component of Kubiak’s offensive scheme, is also expected to play a significant role in both the run game and pass protection.#las_vegas_raiders #san_francisco_49ers #miami_dolphins #allegiant_stadium #klint_kubiak

Uncertainty surrounding injuries, position battles persist as 49ers camp closes SANTA CLARA — The San Francisco 49ers concluded their summer training camp on Tuesday, marking the final full practice session before their preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night. With the team set to trim its roster to 53 players in the coming week and prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia, the 49ers’ final days of camp highlighted both standout performances and lingering questions about key positions. Quarterback Brock Purdy and linebacker Fred Warner remained the team’s top performers throughout the 4 1/2-week training period, but several other players made strong cases for recognition. Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling, the 49ers’ second-round draft pick, emerged as a standout with his ability to make contested catches and hold onto the ball under pressure. On Tuesday’s final practice, Stribling showcased his skills by securing a firm over-the-shoulder catch against cornerback Jack Jones and safety Marques Sigle, a play that exemplified his summer performance. The rookie led the team with 11 catches for 109 yards in two preseason games, and coach Kyle Shanahan praised his readiness, noting that Stribling had been “where we expected him to be” despite the team’s initial plan to limit his usage with Ricky Pearsall sidelined due to a season-ending knee injury. Defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa also made a strong impression, earning praise as the 49ers’ best defensive lineman and a top contender for the best player on the defense. Acquired in an offseason trade with the Dallas Cowboys, Odighizuwa’s relentless effort during practices frustrated the offensive line and elevated the team’s defensive performance.#las_vegas_raiders #san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #de_zhaun_stribling #osa_odighizuwa

Tank Dell Injury: Working Back at His Own Pace Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans expressed uncertainty about Tank Dell’s availability for the team’s preseason schedule, stating that the wide receiver is following a personalized recovery plan tailored to his health. Ryans emphasized that Dell’s progress is being prioritized over immediate athletic participation, with the coach noting, “Whatever that entails, geared toward what’s best for Tank Dell.” This approach reflects the cautious stance the team is taking as Dell continues his rehabilitation from a significant knee injury sustained during the 2024 season. Dell’s injury history dates back to December 2024, when he suffered a dislocated left kneecap along with tears to both the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) in that same knee. The severity of the injury forced him to miss the entire 2025 NFL season, marking a major setback in his career. Despite the prolonged absence, Dell has remained engaged with the team, participating in limited individual drills during the 2026 offseason. However, his participation in the Texans’ preseason activities has been restricted, as evidenced by his absence from the team’s Friday game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Texans’ next preseason matchup is scheduled for Thursday against the Las Vegas Raiders, followed by their regular-season opener on Sunday, September 13, against the Buffalo Bills. Ryans’ comments suggest that Dell’s return to full participation will depend on his adherence to the recovery plan, which may involve additional time in rehabilitation or adjustments to his training regimen. The coach’s emphasis on Dell’s well-being over immediate on-field contributions underscores the team’s commitment to ensuring his long-term health.#las_vegas_raiders #los_angeles_chargers #houston_texans #tank_dell #de_meco_ryans

Saints to Sign Kicker Daniel Carlson The New Orleans Saints are set to sign kicker Daniel Carlson, according to NFL Media reporter Mike Garafolo. The move is expected to be announced on Monday, though no details about a corresponding trade or roster adjustment have been disclosed. The decision follows a summer of competition for the kicking position between veteran players Tanner Brown and Charlie Smyth. Brown and Smyth both faced scrutiny after missing field goal attempts in recent games. Brown missed a field goal during the Saints’ preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams on August 20, 2026, contributing to a 10-0 shutout loss. Smyth also missed a field goal in the preseason opener, though he successfully converted both extra point kicks he attempted. Brown had been 2-of-2 on field goals in that game, but the Saints’ management remained unconvinced about his reliability. Carlson, who spent the past eight seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, is set to join the Saints. During his time with the Raiders, he converted 224 of 255 field goal attempts and 238 of 249 extra points. His consistent performance with the AFC West club made him a strong candidate for the Saints’ roster. The Saints’ decision to sign him suggests they believe his experience and accuracy will provide stability in the kicking position. The competition for the starting role highlighted the team’s need for a reliable kicker, as both Brown and Smyth struggled with key attempts. With the 2026 season approaching, the Saints’ move to bring in Carlson reflects their focus on securing a dependable option for critical moments in games. The absence of a corresponding trade indicates the team is prioritizing depth and reliability over immediate roster changes.#las_vegas_raiders #mike_garafolo #new_orleans_saints #daniel_carlson #tanner_brown

Indiana Football's 2026 NFL Draft Success: Record-Breaking Selections BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana football program continued its momentum following a perfect national championship season by securing a historic performance in the 2026 NFL Draft. For the first time in program history, Indiana had two players selected in the first round, marking a significant milestone after a 22-year gap since the last first-round pick. The draft, held in Pittsburgh, saw multiple Hoosiers drafted across multiple rounds, reflecting the team’s growing national reputation and the impact of its championship-winning season. The Las Vegas Raiders made a statement by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza, a standout performer during Indiana’s undefeated campaign, became the first Hoosier to be drafted first overall in program history. His selection was widely anticipated, given his elite arm strength, leadership on the field, and consistent production throughout the season. The New York Jets followed up with a blockbuster move by drafting Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 30th pick in the first round. The Jets traded back into the bottom of the first round to secure Cooper, a former standout receiver known for his route-running precision and ability to make plays in critical moments. His selection was a testament to his development during the 2025 season, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top wideouts. The Jets’ draft night continued with the selection of Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds at the 50th pick in the second round. Ponds, a former teammate of Cooper, will reunite with his IU teammate in New York. Ponds’ selection highlighted his versatility as a coverage specialist and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.#las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #san_francisco_49ers #new_york_jets #indiana_football

Fernando Mendoza Embarks on Historic Role as Raiders' New Franchise QB Fernando Mendoza stepped through the glass doors of the Las Vegas Raiders' training facility in Henderson, Nevada, his face lit with joy as he realized his lifelong dream had become a reality. The South Florida native, selected as the first overall pick in the NFL draft, now carries the immense weight of leading the franchise into a new era. Mendoza’s journey to this moment was marked by both personal triumph and the daunting challenge of restoring the Raiders’ storied legacy. The Raiders, a storied franchise with a rich history, have not won a playoff game since the 2002 AFC Championship Game on January 19, 2003. Mendoza, who was not yet born when the team last secured a playoff victory, now faces the task of rekindling the winning culture that once defined the Silver & Black. During his first day as a Raider, Mendoza was greeted by icons of the franchise, including Hall of Famers Jim Plunkett, Marcus Allen, Tim Brown, and Fred Biletnikoff. These legends, who helped shape the team’s past success, now look to Mendoza as a potential catalyst for the future. Mendoza’s introduction to the organization was met with high expectations. Raiders coach Klint Kubiak, general manager John Spytek, and the entire franchise leadership expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to lead the team to sustained success. Kubiak emphasized that Mendoza’s skill set is versatile enough to adapt to any offensive system in the league. The coach highlighted Mendoza’s leadership qualities, noting that the quarterback’s performance during his pro day earlier this month solidified the team’s belief in his potential. “On film, we already liked how he played the game,” Kubiak said. “But seeing him in person was really helpful.#las_vegas_raiders #fernando_mendoza #jim_plunkett #marcus_allen #tim_brown

Cal DB Hezekiah Masses Drafted by Raiders in Fifth Round, Extending 7-Year Streak Cornerback Hezekiah Masses was selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the fifth round on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive year a California defensive back has been chosen in the NFL Draft. Masses, who played one season for the Bears as a senior transfer from Florida International, was the 175th overall player drafted this year and the 22nd cornerback selected. His selection continues a trend that began in 2020, when Cal’s defensive backs have consistently been recognized for their NFL potential. Masses, a 6-foot-1, 179-pounder, led the nation last season with 18 passes defended, including 13 passes broken up and five interceptions returned for 91 yards. He also recorded 47 tackles, showcasing his versatility as a playmaker. His performance earned him a first-team All-ACC selection in his lone season with the Bears. Masses was invited to the NFL Combine but opted to attend Cal’s Pro Day instead, where he evaluated his skillset. During his Pro Day, Masses emphasized his strengths, stating, “Definitely ball skills. I’m good when the ball’s in the air. My IQ on the field; I’m always in good position. Some weaknesses I told them, I need to improve in tackling.” This self-assessment aligned with expert analyses of his prospects. Scouts Inc. noted that Masses is an athletic cornerback with the speed (4.46 in the 40-yard dash) to succeed at the next level. His balance, body control, and fluid hips allow him to transition smoothly between coverage schemes, making him effective in both man and zone defenses. However, analysts highlighted areas for improvement. Pro Football Focus pointed out that Masses’ run-defense grades were sub-66.0 in both 2024 and 2025, indicating limitations against the run.#california #las_vegas_raiders #pro_football_focus #hezekiah_masses #scouts_inc

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jordan Reid's Predictions for 257 Prospects The 2026 NFL draft, set to begin on Thursday from Pittsburgh at 8 p.m. ET, has prompted Jordan Reid to release his comprehensive seven-round mock draft. The exercise covers 257 prospects, reflecting his analysis of the class based on conversations with league insiders, scouting reports, and each team’s positional needs. While no trades are projected, Reid acknowledges the potential for surprises and intrigue as teams navigate their draft strategies. The Las Vegas Raiders, selecting first overall, are expected to prioritize a franchise quarterback. Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, is the top choice. Mendoza’s combination of size, arm strength, and decision-making ability positions him as a long-term starter. His resilience through adversity in 2025, culminating in an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and a 16-0 season, solidifies his status as the No. 1 pick. The Raiders’ search for a quarterback has been ongoing, and Mendoza’s performance makes him an ideal fit. The New York Jets, selecting third, face a decision between defensive edge rushers Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech). Reid favors Reese for his upside despite Bailey’s current polish. Reese’s explosive power and versatility as a linebacker or edge rusher align with the Jets’ rebuild, offering a foundational player they can build a scheme around. The Arizona Cardinals, picking fourth, aim to address their offensive line struggles. Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, is projected to fill the right side. His ability to protect the quarterback and improve the team’s run blocking, which ranked last in the NFL last season, makes him a critical addition.#las_vegas_raiders #new_york_jets #nfl_draft #fernando_mendoza #jordan_reid

Arizona Cardinals Target Multiple Prospects in 2026 NFL Draft The Arizona Cardinals, after releasing Kyler Murray, face a critical need for a franchise quarterback as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins April 23. The team’s draft strategy includes seven selections, spanning from the third overall pick to the 217th, with the potential to address multiple positional gaps. While the quarterback position remains their top priority, the Cardinals also seek help at running back, guard, right tackle, inside linebacker, defensive tackle, and slot receiver. The Cardinals’ first-round pick, at No. 3, is among the most coveted in the draft, but the landscape for quarterbacks is limited. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, is expected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. Scouts believe there is little depth behind Mendoza at the position, making it unlikely the Cardinals will find a high-grade quarterback in the early rounds. However, the team’s general manager, Monti Ossenfort, could explore trading down from the third pick to accumulate more assets or make strategic moves with their remaining selections. Beyond quarterback, the Cardinals’ needs include a reliable right tackle to complement Paris Johnson Jr., a versatile edge rusher to bolster their defensive line, and a slot receiver to upgrade their passing game. The draft class offers several options across all rounds, with the following prospects standing out for each of the team’s picks: Round 2 (Pick 34): Max Iheanachor, an offensive tackle from Arizona State, is a local standout who could step in as a Week 1 starter at right tackle if the Cardinals pass on Francis Mauigoa in Round 1. T.J.#las_vegas_raiders #arizona_cardinals #kyler_murray #fernando_mendoza #monti_ossenfort

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Schrager Projects 32 First-Round Picks The 2026 NFL draft is shaping up as one of the most anticipated events in league history, with 32 first-round selections projected by ESPN analyst Schrager based on current conversations with teams and prospects. While the final order remains fluid, the mock draft highlights key trends, team needs, and potential blockbuster trades. The Raiders, Giants, and Chiefs are among the teams making bold moves, while defensive upgrades and offensive firepower remain central priorities. The Las Vegas Raiders, bolstered by the arrival of quarterback Kirk Cousins, are expected to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the first pick. Mendoza, a franchise-caliber quarterback with elite arm strength and decision-making, is seen as the ideal fit for Cousins’ system. The Raiders’ strategy will focus on building a supporting cast around Mendoza, with nine additional first-round picks to address needs at edge rusher, linebacker, and offensive line. New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas is targeting David Bailey, a polished edge rusher from Texas Tech, to complement Cousins’ presence. Bailey’s 14.5 sacks in 2025 and proven pass-rushing ability make him a top-tier option, though the Jets may also consider Ohio State’s Arvell Reese if he remains available. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, facing a brutal NFC West schedule, are prioritizing defensive upgrades. Reese, a versatile edge rusher with elite athleticism, is projected to be their second pick. His potential to disrupt opposing offenses aligns with Arizona’s need for a generational pass-rushing talent. Tennessee Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi has signaled a preference for players with “waves” of pass-rushing ability, which could influence their selection of either Bailey or Reese.#las_vegas_raiders #arizona_cardinals #new_york_jets #2026_nfl_draft #espn_analyst_schrager

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Kiper, Miller, Reid, Yates on Rounds 1-3 The 2026 NFL mock draft, featuring insights from Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates, highlights the strategic selections and reasoning behind the top 100 picks in the first three rounds. The exercise, conducted as a rotating mock draft, emphasizes the analysts’ personal preferences and rankings rather than projected outcomes, with no trades considered. Each analyst acted as a general manager, using their individual evaluations and the latest scouting trends to guide their choices. The results reflect a blend of need, potential, and team-specific priorities, offering a glimpse into how teams might approach the draft. The Las Vegas Raiders, needing a quarterback solution, selected Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, as their top pick. Kiper argued that Mendoza’s tools make him a franchise quarterback, despite the debate over early-pick quarterbacks. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, having signed Elijah Wilkinson, opted for Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, to address their long-term needs at right tackle. Reid emphasized Mauigoa’s readiness to start immediately, calling him the top tackle in the class. The Tennessee Titans, bolstered by their offseason pass-rush additions, chose David Bailey, an edge rusher from Texas Tech, for their 4th pick. Yates highlighted Bailey’s 14.5 sacks in 2025 as a key asset for a young roster. The New York Giants, despite Kiper’s skepticism about early-pick running backs, selected Jeremiyah Love, a dynamic runner from Notre Dame, to elevate their offense. Love’s versatility as a playmaker was cited as a critical upgrade for quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Cleveland Browns, focusing on youth at skill positions, took Makai Lemon, a wide receiver from USC, as their 6th pick.#las_vegas_raiders #field_yates #mel_kiper_jr #matt_miller #jordan_reid

Tom Brady has confirmed he has inquired about the NFL’s policies regarding a potential return to the league as a player while maintaining his ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders, but he has no intention of coming back. The quarterback, who recently participated in a Fanatics flag football game, told CNBC Sport that the NFL does not favor the idea of a player-ownership dual role. Brady explained that he has explored the possibility of returning to the league while retaining his minority ownership in the Raiders, but the NFL’s stance has made it clear such a scenario is unlikely. “They don’t like that idea very much,” Brady said during an interview promoting his World Cup ad campaign with Ferrero. He emphasized that he is “very happily retired” and has no plans to re-enter professional football. An NFL spokesperson clarified that if Brady were to pursue a return, he would first need to divest his ownership stake in the Raiders. The league cited a 2023 policy prohibiting players or team employees from holding equity in a club. The spokesperson also noted that there would be “salary cap issues involving a player/owner,” further complicating any potential return. Despite his retirement, Brady remains involved with the Raiders in a “strategic advisory role.” Since acquiring a minority stake in the team, he has contributed to personnel and coaching decisions, though he described his role as informal. “I’m a minority owner. So, when you’re that, there’s really no job description,” he said. Brady expressed a desire to help the Raiders “bring the Raiders back to glory” and foster a “winning kind of a culture” in Las Vegas. While Brady acknowledged his enjoyment of playing in the flag football game, he reiterated that the experience reinforced his contentment with retirement.#las_vegas_raiders #nfl #tom_brady #ferrero #world_cup_ad_campaign

Las Vegas Raiders Add Linebacker Segun Olubi from Indianapolis Colts The Las Vegas Raiders added another linebacker on Monday, expected to play a key role on special teams. Segun Olubi, who spent the past four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts after graduating from San Diego State, is now part of the Raiders’ roster. Olubi, who grew up part of his childhood in Bullhead City, made a notable impact during the 2025 season by blocking a punt against the Raiders in Indianapolis. This play resulted in an ankle injury for punter AJ Cole. Olubi appeared in all 17 games for the Colts in 2025, recording 11 special teams tackles and a forced fumble. His performance earned him a spot among 13 players in the league who achieved at least 10 tackles and a forced fumble on special teams. Despite his contributions, Olubi saw limited defensive action, playing just six snaps on defense during the season. The move marks another addition to the Raiders’ roster as they continue to shape their team for the 2026 season. Olubi’s versatility and special teams expertise are expected to provide value as the team looks to strengthen its depth in key areas. His signing follows a busy week of free agency for the Raiders, during which they made several notable additions to their roster.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #san_diego_state #segun_olubi #bullhead_city

Segun Olubi, key Colts special teamer and linebacker, to Las Vegas in free agency INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts have lost another long-time member of their linebacker unit as free agency progressed, signaling a major shift in their defensive strategy. Veteran linebacker Segun Olubi, who had spent four seasons with the team, has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, a move that primarily affects the Colts’ special teams unit rather than their defensive depth. Olubi, 26, was a critical component of the Colts’ special teams operations, contributing significantly to their success in the kicking game. As a core player under coordinator Brian Mason, he recorded 11 special teams tackles during the 2025 season. His impact extended beyond tackles, as he forced a fumble and blocked a punt during the Colts’ dominant victory over the Raiders. These performances highlighted his reliability in high-pressure moments, particularly in the kicking game. Olubi’s contributions to special teams were consistent over his tenure with the Colts. In each of his three full seasons, he managed at least nine special-teams tackles, showcasing his ability to perform under various conditions. His 2024 season opener against Houston saw him block a punt, further solidifying his role as a key asset to the unit. However, his defensive contributions were limited. Despite his special teams success, Olubi’s role on defense was minimal. In 2023, he made one start in place of an injured Zaire Franklin and played a career-high 114 defensive snaps. However, in the subsequent two seasons, his defensive involvement dropped sharply. In 2025, he recorded just 27 defensive snaps, with all six of those coming in mop-up situations.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #zaire_franklin #segun_olubi #brian_mason

Raiders Sign Colts Free Agent Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have signed linebacker Segun Olubi, a free agent who previously played for the Indianapolis Colts. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the move, though details of the contract have not been disclosed. Olubi, who spent three seasons with the Colts, is now set to join the Raiders for the 2026 NFL season. Olubi became an unrestricted free agent after the Colts non-tendered him, a decision that allowed him to pursue opportunities with other teams. During his time with the Colts, he was a key contributor on special teams, playing over 300 snaps in each of the past three seasons. His role on special teams was consistent, with him participating in multiple phases of the game regularly. Defensively, Olubi’s playing time was limited. According to Pro Football Focus, he totaled just 142 career defensive snaps, with 115 of those coming in 2023. His defensive contributions were minimal compared to his special teams impact. The Colts’ linebacker corps has faced challenges this offseason, particularly after the trade of Zaire Franklin. The team’s most experienced linebacker at the position is Jaylon Carlies, who has accumulated just over 200 career defensive snaps. This lack of depth has left the Colts with a significant need at the position, prompting general manager Chris Ballard to prioritize addressing the linebacker room. Olubi’s departure from Indianapolis highlights the competitive nature of free agency, as teams like the Raiders saw an opportunity to bolster their roster. The Colts’ decision to non-tender him may have been a strategic move to manage salary cap space, but it left them without a reliable option at the linebacker position.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #chris_ballard

Las Vegas Raiders Sign Former Colts LB Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Segun Olubi, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 26-year-old player, standing 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 233 pounds, brings four seasons of NFL experience to the team. During his time with the Colts, Olubi recorded 50 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and one interception across 51 career games. Olubi will serve as a depth player and key contributor on special teams for the Raiders. A former undrafted prospect from San Diego State, he is known for his speed, highlighted by a 4.45 40-yard dash time. His athleticism was recently showcased when he blocked a punt by AJ Cole during a game against the Raiders in 2025. Raiders public relations highlighted additional details about Olubi’s performance: in 2025, he tallied 11 total tackles and one forced fumble on special teams, joining an elite group of 13 NFL players who achieved 10+ tackles and a forced fumble in that category. Since the 2023 season, he has accumulated 21 solo special teams tackles, ranking ninth in the league. Over his time with the Colts from 2022 to 2025, he recorded 30 total special teams tackles, the highest on the team during that period. Raiders special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis expressed enthusiasm about the addition, noting Olubi’s potential to strengthen the unit. Olubi himself shared his excitement for joining the team, stating, “What’s up Raider Nation, super excited to get to work man. I love it out here, it’s a beautiful place. Time to do it.” Raiders general manager John Spytek emphasized an open-minded approach to free agency, aiming to build a competitive roster.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #john_spytek

Raiders Sign LB Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Segun Olubi, marking a significant addition to their defensive roster. The move was announced on Monday, signaling the team’s continued efforts to bolster its secondary and special teams units ahead of the 2026 season. Olubi, who spent the past four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the Silver and Black. During his time with the Colts from 2022 to 2025, Olubi appeared in 51 regular-season games, contributing 20 tackles (14 solo), one pass defensed, one interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two blocked punts. His impact extended beyond the defensive line, as he recorded 30 tackles on special teams, the highest total among Colts players during that span. In 2025, Olubi played in all 17 games, adding 11 special teams tackles, one forced fumble, and one blocked punt. His performance earned him recognition as one of just 13 NFL players to record 10-plus tackles and one forced fumble on special teams in 2025. Olubi’s collegiate career began at San Diego State, where he played in 21 games from 2020 to 2021. During that time, he tallied 68 tackles (34 solo), four tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, two passes defensed, one interception returned for a touchdown, and two forced fumbles. Prior to San Diego State, he spent time at Harding University, Saddlebrook College, and the College of Idaho, laying the foundation for his eventual NFL career. The Raiders’ decision to sign Olubi reflects their strategic approach to free agency, which has focused on acquiring players with proven ability to contribute immediately.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #san_diego_state #segun_olubi #college_of_idaho

Former Detroit Lions Cornerback Amik Robertson Signs With Washington Commanders Another key member of the Detroit Lions’ secondary has moved on in free agency. Veteran cornerback Amik Robertson has agreed to a two-year, $16 million contract with the Washington Commanders, including $9.3 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The deal marks the end of Robertson’s two-season tenure with the Lions, during which he became a reliable contributor to the team’s defensive backfield. Robertson joined the Lions ahead of the 2024 season after starting his NFL career with the Las Vegas Raiders, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over his time in Detroit, he demonstrated versatility as a defensive back, capable of playing both outside corner and in the slot. In 34 games with the Lions, he recorded 52 total tackles and 12 passes defended in 2025 alone, appearing in all 17 games and starting 10 of them. His ability to adapt to different roles made him a valuable asset to the team’s defensive strategy. The Commanders’ decision to sign Robertson adds depth to their secondary, particularly as the team looks to strengthen its defensive options for the 2026 season. At 27 years old, Robertson is entering his prime, bringing a combination of experience and physicality to a unit that has been rebuilding. His presence should provide the Commanders with additional flexibility in coverage schemes and situational matchups. For the Lions, Robertson’s departure signals another transition in their secondary as general manager Brad Holmes reshapes the roster ahead of the 2026 season.#las_vegas_raiders #washington_commanders #detroit_lions #brad_holmes #amik_robertson

Detroit Lions Sign Free-Agent Center Cade Mays The Detroit Lions have finalized a three-year, $25 million contract with free-agent center Cade Mays, according to a league source speaking to The Detroit News. The deal, which includes $14 million in guaranteed money, marks Mays as the eighth-highest paid center in the NFL with an average annual value of $8.3 million. This signing is seen as a significant move for Lions general manager Brad Holmes, who had previously identified Mays as a top target in the offseason. Mays, 26, was among the most sought-after centers in free agency. His contract comes amid a challenging market for the position, as several high-profile players either re-signed with their current teams or signed with other franchises. For instance, Connor McGovern, another top target, re-signed with the Buffalo Bills just days before free agency closed. Meanwhile, Tyler Linderbaum, widely regarded as the top center available, is expected to join the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $81 million deal. Mays’ professional journey began with his college careers at Georgia and Tennessee. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. Over his four seasons with the team, Mays has started 27 games, including 12 contests during the 2025 season. His signing allows the Lions to continue developing Tate Ratledge at right guard without being forced to move him to a different position. The deal underscores the Lions’ commitment to strengthening their offensive line, a critical area for their success. With Mays joining the roster, the team aims to build a more stable and versatile unit capable of supporting their quarterback and protecting the ball carrier.#las_vegas_raiders #detroit_lions #cade_mays #brad_holmes #tate_ratledge

Raiders Acquire Bills' Taron Johnson in Trade The Las Vegas Raiders have completed a trade to acquire cornerback Taron Johnson from the Buffalo Bills, preventing him from becoming a free agent. The deal was finalized ahead of the NFL's trade deadline, with the Bills receiving a sixth-round draft pick in exchange for Johnson’s services. The Raiders, who had been monitoring the situation, stepped in to secure the veteran defender before he could enter the open market. Johnson, a 29-year-old cornerback, spent his entire NFL career with the Bills after being selected in the fourth round of the 2018 draft. Over his tenure with Buffalo, he made 113 regular-season appearances, including 87 starts. His performance earned him a spot on the second-team All-Pro list in 2023, highlighting his impact on the field. The trade includes financial terms tied to Johnson’s contract, which runs through the 2027 season. For the 2026 season, he is scheduled to earn a base salary of $8.1 million. Additionally, Johnson received a $150,000 workout bonus and a total of $510,000 in per-game roster bonuses. These incentives are part of the compensation package negotiated as part of the trade agreement. The transaction is set to become official on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. ET, coinciding with the start of the new NFL league year. This move underscores the Raiders’ commitment to strengthening their defensive roster, while the Bills aim to manage their cap space and rebuild their secondary. Johnson’s arrival in Las Vegas is expected to provide immediate depth and experience to the Raiders’ defense, which has been a focal point of their recent roster adjustments.#trade_deadline #buffalo_bills #taron_johnson #las_vegas_raiders #nfl