The Las Vegas Raiders were active just before camp, reuniting Jamal Adams with his former head coach, Pete Carroll, in Sin City.
Before training camp begins on Wednesday, the Raiders decided to make several moves to enhance their roster. Many of these additions are based on prior relationships between players and coaches. For instance, Adams was signed due to his previous experience with Carroll in Seattle. Atonio Mafi played under Chip Kelly during his time with the UCLA Bruins. Additionally, Las Vegas has added Phillip Dorsett to strengthen their receiving corps.
To compensate for the additions, four players were released. These were roster bubble players such as Mello Dotson.
Is Jamal Adams going to be a starter?
Recently, injuries have become synonymous with Adams. 2023 and 2024 were riddled with knee and hip injuries. However, from 2018 to 2020, he was a Pro Bowl candidate and an All-Pro-level player. No. 33 is one of the best blitzing defensive backs in history. He totaled 19.5 sacks in three seasons.
Altogether, the safety will compete for a spot on this roster. But Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola-Mao will make it difficult for him to start. The main discrepancy in his playstyle is the lack of coverage skills. He finished 2024 with a 35.5 Pro Football Focus coverage grade.
As a result, the Raiders are likely to utilize him in the box. This could mean he will play as an extra linebacker in a position group that lacks strength. Adams asserts that he is in the best shape of his life and is prepared to compete.
J.T. Woods and Phillip Dorsett signed with the Raiders…
Besides Adams, the next two known names include Woods and Dorsett. Dorsett is a familiar name, as he has bounced around multiple franchises recently. He played in two games in 2023 and was unable to dress for a game in 2024. Due to the youth in the wide receiver room, the 32-year-old could compete for a spot on the roster.
On the other hand, Woods is a lot less likely to earn a spot on the roster. He is a versatile defensive back. In short, Woods has not had a jumpstart to his career. He only started in one game in his rookie season. Additionally, he finished last season with five tackles. Maybe this coaching regime can unlock his full potential.
It was a hectic day for the Raiders front office. Hopefully, these moves will result in more victories during the 2025 campaign.
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