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The Las Vegas Raiders have kicked off their player acquisition season with a big trade. On Friday, they acquired quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. This move came just before the early negotiation window opened on Monday at 9 a.m. PT. The NFL’s new league year starts on Wednesday at 1 p.m. PT, marking when teams can officially sign free agents from other teams. This article covers the Raiders’ key signings and losses in the early wave of free agency.
Linebacker Elandon Roberts: The Raiders signed Roberts to a one-year deal worth $3 million on March 10. After linebacker Robert Spillane left for the New England Patriots, Roberts will bring experience, having played in all 17 games for the Steelers last season. He recorded 46 tackles and played nearly half of the defensive snaps. Plus, he has worked with Raiders defensive line coach Rob Leonard in the past, making for a smooth transition.
Safety Lonnie Johnson Jr.: Also on March 10, the Raiders added Johnson, who mainly contributed on special teams with the Carolina Panthers. Though he hasn’t been a regular starter, he logged significant special teams snaps last season. The Raiders see him as a strong backup and a key player on special teams.
Defensive End Malcolm Koonce: Koonce re-signed with the Raiders on March 10 for a one-year contract worth $12 million. After missing all of the previous season with a torn ACL, he had an impressive comeback in 2023 with eight sacks. The Raiders are excited about their defensive line, which is now back to full strength with Maxx Crosby, Christian Wilkins, Adam Butler, and Koonce, along with backups like Tyree Wilson.
Cornerback Nate Hobbs: Hobbs signed a four-year, $48 million deal on March 10. At 6 feet tall, he’s known for his physical play in the slot. Although he has had some injury setbacks, he can deliver standout performances when healthy.
Safety Jeremy Chinn: On March 10, Chinn joined the Raiders on a two-year deal worth $16 million. He will take over for Tre’von Moehrig, who signed with the Panthers. Chinn had a productive four years with the Panthers, posting 117 tackles last season and showcasing strong skills in both tackling and coverage.
Safety Tre’von Moehrig: Moehrig agreed to a three-year, $51 million contract with the Panthers on March 10. He developed into a key player for the Raiders over the past couple of seasons, proving to be effective near the line of scrimmage and in pass defense.
Linebacker Robert Spillane: Spillane’s departure to the New England Patriots was confirmed on March 10. His impact on the Raiders was significant, especially as a defensive leader. Filling his spot will be a challenge for the team.
Defensive Tackle Adam Butler: The Raiders signed Butler to a three-year, $16.5 million deal on March 9, with $11 million guaranteed. He played a vital role last season and aims to continue improving his game alongside the younger players on defense.
Quarterback Geno Smith: On March 7, the Raiders traded a 2025 third-round pick to the Seahawks for Smith. This acquisition addresses their quarterback needs, offering reliable play with plenty of experience, even as they look toward the future.
Center Andre James: James was released on March 7 after struggling last season, freeing up over $1.49 million in cap space. This move allows Jackson Powers-Johnson, who filled in at center during James’s absence, an opportunity to take on a full-time role.
Wide Receiver Michael Gallup: Gallup was removed from the reserve/retired list on March 7, making him eligible to sign with another team. He had signed with the Raiders last offseason before retiring unexpectedly during training camp.
Defensive Tackle Tomari Fox: Fox was waived on March 7 after spending last season on the practice squad without making it to the active roster.
Defensive End Maxx Crosby: On March 5, Crosby received a substantial three-year extension worth $106.5 million, briefly making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. He has consistently been one of the top performers among defensive linemen since his debut.
Offensive Lineman Alex Cappa: The Raiders signed Cappa to a two-year contract worth $11 million on March 5. Familiar with the Raiders’ general manager from their time together at the Buccaneers, Cappa brings experience and durability to the O-line.
Quarterback Gardner Minshew: The Raiders released Minshew on March 5 after an underwhelming season that saw him benched multiple times. This decision opens up space in the quarterback room.
Wide Receiver DJ Turner: Turner was informed on March 3 that he would not receive a tender as a restricted free agent. He had contributed on special teams and played in some games last season but faced injury challenges.
Quarterback Desmond Ridder: Ridder was also informed on February 28 that he wouldn’t get a tender from the Raiders after his struggles during a brief time with the team last season.
Safety Isaiah Pola-Mao: The Raiders re-signed Pola-Mao on February 24 to a two-year extension for $7.45 million after a solid performance last season.
Wide Receiver Kyle Phillips: Phillips was signed on February 18, bringing experience from his time with the Titans and the Eagles. He’ll compete for a place on the roster.
Cornerback Keenan Isaac: Isaac was waived on February 18 after spending time on the practice squad without seeing game action.
(Photo of Malcolm Koonce: Kirby Lee / USA Today)
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