ClutchPoints
The Las Vegas Raiders approached the 2025 offseason needing to reshape their roster to stay competitive in the AFC West. With a new quarterback leading the charge, key players returning, and strategic signings to strengthen the team, the Raiders aimed to make a statement. Sure, the high-profile acquisitions naturally captured most of the attention. However, one lesser-known addition could prove to be a crucial difference-maker. Veteran linebacker Elandon Roberts, signed to a budget-friendly deal, might be the most overlooked yet impactful move of the Raiders’ offseason.
It has been an eventful offseason for the Raiders. Of course, this started with a major coaching change. The team brought in Pete Carroll to lead the franchise, subsequently reuniting him with his former quarterback, Geno Smith, via trade. Yes, Smith represents an upgrade at the position. That said, his past performances in Seattle, where his QB+ grades never surpassed a C+, indicate a limited ceiling.
The Raiders also addressed their offensive line by signing Alex Cappa. That’s a move that followed the release of Andre James. Sure, Cappa provides a solid starting option at guard. However, it also remains debatable whether this is a true upgrade for a unit that ranked 22nd in the league last season. Defensively, the addition of Jeremy Chinn was a positive move. On the flip side, it came at the cost of losing key contributors such as Tre’von Moehrig, Robert Spillane, and Nate Hobbs. Given that the defense ranked 21st last year, these changes might not be enough to make meaningful improvements.
One of the Raiders’ most significant moves was securing the long-term future of Maxx Crosby. He remains a cornerstone of the defense. Yes, this extension was a crucial win for the franchise. That said, the overall direction of the roster remains uncertain. The coaching change certainly provides some optimism. With plenty of free agents still on the market, there’s potential for further moves. However, it’s difficult to argue that the Raiders have definitively improved their roster since the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Free agency wasn’t without its challenges, though. Las Vegas had to part ways with some key defensive players due to salary cap limitations. The departures will undoubtedly test the depth and adaptability of the roster. Despite these setbacks, the Raiders still managed to make some smart acquisitions. Of course, none was more underrated than the signing of Elandon Roberts.
Here we’ll try to look at the player who is the Las Vegas Raiders’ sneakiest signing during the 2025 NFL free agency period.
At first glance, signing a 30-year-old linebacker to a short-term contract might not seem like a game-changing move. However, Roberts brings exactly what the Raiders need. He carries toughness, experience, and a relentless edge that aligns perfectly with their aggressive defensive identity. Seeking to add a veteran presence to the linebacker corps, the Silver and Black turned to the former Pittsburgh Steelers standout to bolster their unit....
