The Las Vegas Raiders moved quickly to address the inside linebacker position after Robert Spillane took his services elsewhere this week.
As originally broken by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Elandon Roberts agreed to a one-year deal with the Silver and Black. The news came following the story that Robert Spillane (a former Steeler himself) opted to sign with the New Patriots. Raider Nation’s sadness aside, Spillane decided to cash in and let’s face it, most people would’ve if they were in his shoes.
As far as the Raiders go, they acquired a reliable defender as he recorded 147 total tackles during his time with the Steelers. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham now has a downhill tackling machine who’ll help shore up the run defense. He was one of three middle linebackers for Pittsburgh who saw consistent snaps; however, after the team opted for Malik Harrison and Cole Holcomb for the upcoming season, Roberts found himself the odd man out.
Along with the aforementioned 147 tackles, Roberts also recorded two pass deflections, three and a half sacks, and 15 tackles for a loss. We all know Spillane became a fan favorite over the last couple of years with his no-nonsense and passionate play that reminded Raider Nation of its old-school linebackers.
At first, replacing Spillane’s 306 total tackles, 11 pass deflections, and 17 tackles for a loss will be a challenging task. Roberts likely isn’t the long-term answer for Graham’s defense; instead, we could see general manager John Spytek use the NFL draft to replenish the linebacker corps.
Thoughts, Raider Nation?
*Top Photo: Getty Images
Pete Carroll, John Spytek Add Former First-Round CB To Las Vegas Raiders