Since John Spytek took over as Las Vegas Raiders general manager, he’s made all the right moves. Even if some within Raider Nation aren’t exactly inspired by his maneuvering thus far, you could definitely argue he’s getting off to an impressive start.
Last year, former general manager Tom Telesco did draft Brock Bowers, which Raiders fans can appreciate. In fact, the Silver and Black now have a generational talent at tight end—many would even say he’s already the best at his position heading into Year 2. Unlike Spytek, Telesco did do some splurging last offseason, namely signing Christian Wilkins to a massive contract.
This offseason has been a different story under Spytek with Telesco long gone.
Raiders brass is under new management…
So far, Spytek has been smart about spending, avoiding overpaying for free agents—especially ones they wanted to keep but were too expensive due to competition from teams, the New England Patriots being chief among them as they signed away the “heart” of the Raiders defense. Spytek, instead, has brought in cheaper replacements who might perform just as well or even better. The football version of “Moneyball,” if you will.
After years of signing overpriced free agents who amounted to little more than mediocrity in most cases, this new management is trying something different. Furthermore, Spytek and Carroll made sure to address the biggest hindrance on the Raiders roster since Derek Carr’s exit, the quarterback position. While Pete Carroll played a role in moving Geno Smith from Seattle, Spytek made the deal happen.
Say what you want about the lack of “splashy” moves so far; Spytek is doing things right.
John Spytek visits the Buccaneers pipeline…
Needing to reshape the linebacker corps, Spytek looked to a familiar face in Devin White. While speaking at the NFL Owners Meetings, he praised linebacker Devin White’s 2020 playoff performance—in actuality, he made quite a bold statement.
While speaking at the NFL Owners Meetings, he praised linebacker White’s 2020 playoff performance, saying:
“Outside of Von Miller, Devin White’s 2020 playoff run was the greatest I’ve seen (from a defensive player). He is a great dude and we’re going to give him a chance at a resurgence.”
That’s a strong statement, folks.
White performed brilliantly that postseason, but is it truly among the finest ever? That is dubious, particularly because Spytek also collaborated with Miller in Denver. All kidding aside, White has not been the same player in recent times. Perhaps it’s the defensive systems he’s been in, but his game is rather one-sided. He suffers in pass coverage but is outstanding against the run. White will have to move up in that regard since Elandon Roberts is in the mix.
While stopping the run is crucial, in Carroll and Patrick Graham’s defense, the linebacker must cover. It will be hard to ignore White’s shortcomings if he doesn’t fulfill those responsibilities.
Let’s bookmark this statement by Spytek for a later date.
*Top Photo: USA TODAY Sports