This offseason has been a bit different for the Las Vegas Raiders under new general manager John Spytek. Unlike previous regimes that seemed focused on winning the free agency period with high-profile moves like trading for Davante Adams or signing players like Chandler Jones to big contracts, Spytek has taken a more measured approach.
While he did spend significantly to extend star defensive end Maxx Crosby, his other moves have been much more reserved. He sent just a third-round pick to Seattle in exchange for Geno Smith and has yet to sign any free agent to a contract worth more than $8 million per year.
Despite the loss of half their defensive starters from last season, ESPN still listed the Raiders among the most improved teams this offseason. Part of this optimistic outlook is due to the fact that Las Vegas may have made one of the biggest steals of free agency.
Elandon Roberts is one of biggest steals in free agency for Raiders
A to Z Sports’ Justin Churchill highlighted linebacker Elandon Roberts as the biggest steal of the first week of free agency. Roberts’ affordable contract, combined with his proven production and leadership, made him an easy decision for Las Vegas’ new front office. This signing is reminiscent of a recent move that paid off for the Raiders in a big way.
“This move resembles one they made a few years ago — the signing of Robert Spillane, who also was leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers on a cheap deal, only to be rewarded big-time after two years,” Churchill wrote. “Roberts was coveted by the Steelers and their fan base. Yet, the Raiders were able to get him for one year, $3 million, which is about as cheap as you will get for a player like Roberts. And, he’s a great player.”
Although Spillane is no longer with the Raiders, the team replaced him with a similar player from a similar background. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has a track record of taking late-round draft picks or inexpensive free agents and developing them into solid NFL contributors.
Graham has done this before, and he can certainly do it again with Roberts. Roberts is just one of many underrated defensive signings the Raiders made this offseason, with players like Jeremy Chinn, Eric Stokes, Lonnie Johnson, and Leki Fotu also coming in to bolster the defense.
Under Spytek’s leadership, the Raiders are ushering in a new era, and his moves are starting to get the recognition they deserve. While this might feel new for Raider Nation, it’s something fans can hopefully get used to moving forward.