10-05-2025
Getting a tryout at Raiders rookie minicamp is one former Cowboys Pro Bowl linebacker
Getting a tryout at Raiders rookie minicamp is one former Cowboys Pro Bowl linebacker
Come and take it. That's the assignment at linebacker for the Raiders this offseason. They let their two starters Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo leave in free agency and signed veterans Elandon Roberts and Devin White to one-year deals.
Pete Carroll says all positions are up for grabs and competition is the word of camp. That starts right away with a few hopefuls getting tryouts in rookie minicamp. And it isn't just for rookies.
One player getting a look is former Cowboys Pro Bowl linebacker Jaylon Smith.
The 29-year-old was out of the NFL last season. He began his career as a second round pick by the Cowboys in the 2016 draft out of Notre Dame. And in his third season, he made the Pro Bowl.
His four years in Dallas were by far his best. Since 2021, he has had trouble sticking on a roster. He spent most of the 2022 season with the Giants, but since then, he has had just one appearance in a game and, as it happens, it was with the Raiders in 2023. He spent last season on the Steelers' practice squad.
Several players likely got tryouts at Raiders rookie minicamp, including a few undrafted free agents. Smith is hoping that at a thin position, he has a good shot at breaking through.
