LAS VEGAS — Every NFL season produces a surprise breakout, and for the Las Vegas Raiders, Jonah Laulu is quickly becoming that story.
Plucked off waivers from Indianapolis just a year ago, Laulu was hardly a household name. Now, he’s forcing his way into headlines—and opposing backfields. In Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Laulu racked up two sacks, giving him three on the season. To put that in perspective, he managed just one sack as a rookie.
While the team’s performance on Monday night may have been underwhelming, Laulu is undeniably making a name for himself despite the loss.
Pete Carroll expressed his excitement when asked about Laulu’s early success.
Man is tied for 4th in the @NFL in sacks. Only played 32 snaps last game 55%. It’s time to increase his snap counts big time! #Raiders #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/a2HanmokSU
— Eric Newton (@E5Nasty) September 17, 2025
“He has just blossomed. He’s just blossomed,” Carroll said. “He had enough plays on film coming off of last year that caught my eye. He’s done nothing but positive things.”
Carroll’s trust is showing up on the field…
Laulu logged 55 percent of the defensive snaps against Los Angeles, adding four tackles to his stat sheet. His steady rise suggests this isn’t a flash-in-the-pan performance. No, it’s quite the opposite. Instead, we are seeing the emergence of Laulu as a key player in a defense that is in search of playmakers.
The concerning aspect for opponents? He is still merely beginning to tap into his potential. Laulu has received acclaim for his activity, consistency, and ability to influence games without compromising discipline—the very traits that Carroll has consistently prioritized in defensive linemen.
Laulu’s emergence is perfectly timed for the Raiders, who desperately need disruptive forces to tilt the AFC West race. The Chargers game may have been his coming-out party, but it likely won’t be the last time his name echoes in the backfield.
From being a waiver wire pickup to becoming a breakout star, Jonah Laulu is demonstrating that the Raiders may have found unexpected talent. As his playing time continues to increase, his impact on the field is likely to grow as well.
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*Top Photo: YouTube