Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Jonah Laulu has transformed from an overlooked seventh-round draft pick into one of the most compelling budget plays in daily fantasy sports. The 25-year-old’s meteoric rise through the first two weeks of the 2025 season positions him as a premier low-owned, high-reward option for DFS lineups seeking maximum value at the defensive tackle position.
From Waiver Wire to Breakout Star
Laulu’s journey to DFS relevance began with adversity. Originally drafted 234th overall by Indianapolis in 2024, the Oklahoma product was cut by the Colts before the regular season. The Raiders quickly claimed him off waivers, and that decision has paid dividends beyond expectations. In his rookie campaign, Laulu appeared in all 17 games, starting seven, and compiled modest numbers with 35 tackles and just one sack.
The 2025 season presents a significantly different picture. Laulu has already tripled his career sack total with three sacks in just two games. His breakout performance came during Monday Night Football against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he recorded two sacks of Justin Herbert, six total pressures, three quarterback hits, and four tackles. For DFS purposes, defensive players targeting daily fantasy sites like those offering PrizePicks promo code opportunities understand that this type of statistical explosion from an under-the-radar player represents exactly the kind of ceiling performance that can separate winning lineups from the field.
Snap Count Analysis and Usage Trends
Laulu’s snap count progression reveals a player earning increased trust from the coaching staff. After playing just 38.3% of defensive snaps in 2024, his early 2025 usage suggests expanded responsibilities within the Raiders’ defensive scheme. In Week 1 against New England, he played 29 snaps, and the number increased to 32 snaps against the Chargers. While his current snap percentage of 47.3% through two games may seem modest, it represents a significant uptick from his rookie campaign.
The Raiders’ depth chart shows Laulu listed as the primary backup to Thomas Booker IV at right defensive tackle, but his recent production has blurred traditional starter-backup distinctions. His 3.0 sacks through two games already place him tied for second in the NFL, trailing only players like Myles Garrett. This production rate suggests that even with limited snaps, Laulu maximizes his opportunities at an elite level.
Favorable Matchup Analysis
Examining Laulu’s upcoming schedule reveals several DFS-friendly matchups that could extend his hot streak. The Raiders face Washington in Week 3, where the Commanders’ offensive line ranks 17th in pass protection metrics and has already surrendered seven sacks through two weeks. This represents the fourth-most sacks allowed, creating an ideal environment for interior pass rushers to generate pressure.
Looking ahead, Chicago (Week 4), Indianapolis (Week 5), and Tennessee (Week 6) all present exploitable matchups for defensive tackle production. The Bears’ interior offensive line has struggled with consistency, while Indianapolis represents a revenge game scenario for Laulu against his former team. Tennessee’s offensive line has historically provided favorable matchups for interior pass rush, particularly for players capable of generating pressure on limited snaps.
DFS Pricing and Ownership Projections
Laulu’s salary structure across major DFS platforms positions him as an elite value play. His low name recognition and recent emergence from obscurity suggest he will carry minimal ownership percentages, particularly in large-field tournaments. This combination of production ceiling and low roster rates creates the perfect storm for contrarian DFS players seeking differentiation in their lineups.
The defensive tackle position often presents salary savings opportunities in DFS, and Laulu exemplifies this principle. His per-snap production efficiency rivals players priced significantly higher, while his recent statistical explosion hasn’t yet been reflected in salary adjustments across platforms. This pricing inefficiency creates a window for savvy DFS players to capitalize before the market corrects.
Statistical Projections and Ceiling Outcomes
Based on his current trajectory and upcoming matchups, Laulu projects as one of the highest-upside defensive tackles available in DFS markets. His pressure rate and snap-to-sack conversion suggest sustainable production, particularly when facing offensive lines ranked in the bottom half of pass protection metrics.
Coach Pete Carroll’s praise of Laulu’s development provides additional confidence in continued opportunity. “He has just blossomed,” Carroll noted, emphasizing that the young player “caught my eye as a potential guy that might really be a factor.” This institutional support suggests his role will continue expanding, particularly if his production maintains its current pace.
Building Around Laulu in DFS Lineups
Incorporating Laulu into DFS lineups allows for roster construction flexibility that can unlock premium options at other positions. His budget-friendly salary creates salary cap space to target high-priced skill position players while maintaining access to legitimate ceiling outcomes at the defensive tackle position.
The key to maximizing Laulu’s DFS value lies in pairing him with game environments that project for defensive scoring opportunities. His ability to generate pressure creates potential for strip sacks, fumble recoveries, and defensive touchdowns that can provide tournament-winning performances at minimal cost.
His combination of proven recent production, favorable upcoming matchups, and budget-friendly pricing creates a compelling case for inclusion in both cash game and tournament strategies throughout the coming weeks.
Related: Fatal Flaws Exposed In Recent Raiders’ Loss
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