Raiders make multiple changes to roster, release former 1st-round LB

The Las Vegas Raiders executed a series of roster changes on Tuesday. Among the moves, the team waived linebacker Jamin Davis, who was originally a first-round pick by the Washington Commanders.

In addition, veteran kicker Greg Joseph was released from the practice squad, while cornerback Greedy Vance was promoted to the active 53-man roster.

Davis, chosen 19th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, is the most high-profile departure. The former Kentucky standout had been added to the Raiders main roster less than a month ago. His release from a team holding a 2-10 record raises concerns about his future in the league, though the Raiders may consider bringing him back to the practice squad.

Joseph had joined the practice squad in November as a temporary solution while starting kicker Daniel Carlson struggled. Since then, Carlson has made four of six field goal attempts and all five extra points, prompting the team to part ways with Joseph.

Vance, who played seven defensive snaps in Week 13 against the Los Angeles Chargers, had been a standard gameday elevation from the practice squad. He served as the teams fourth cornerback behind Eric Stokes, Kyu Blu Kelly, and Darien Porter. Now officially on the roster, Vance will continue in a rotational role in the secondary.

Analysis: Raiders Roster Moves Highlight Development Challenges

The Las Vegas Raiders’ latest roster adjustments reflect both short-term needs and ongoing evaluation of player potential. The release of linebacker Jamin Davis, a former first-round pick, underscores the team’s willingness to part with high-profile players who have yet to make a consistent impact. Davis’ quick turnaround on and off the roster illustrates the Raiders’ focus on immediate performance in a struggling 2-10 season.

Veteran kicker Greg Joseph’s departure follows a clear performance-based decision. Daniel Carlson’s recent accuracy improvements have reduced the need for additional roster depth at the kicking position. This move emphasizes the Raiders’ reliance on data-driven assessment for special teams.

The promotion of cornerback Greedy Vance provides continuity in the secondary rotation. Having participated in game action as a standard elevation, Vance’s permanent placement on the 53-man roster ensures stability behind starters Eric Stokes, Kyu Blu Kelly, and Darien Porter. The move signals the Raiders’ commitment to developing younger contributors within a challenging defensive scheme.

Overall, these changes illustrate a dual approach: addressing immediate positional needs while evaluating developmental talent. The Raiders continue to balance performance expectations against the backdrop of a difficult season, making each roster decision critical to both short-term competitiveness and long-term planning.

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• Raiders make slew of roster moves, waive former 1st-round LB