Las Vegas overhauled its linebacker corps this offseason, replacing Spillane and Deablo as the Raiders lean on a veteran-led rebuild. Elandon Roberts is slated to anchor the group, with Jamal Adams, Devin White, and Germaine Pratt brought in to bring versatility, leadership, and playmaking upside. Adams’ move from safety to LB is highlighted, alongside White’s reclamation arc and Pratt’s steady veteran presence, creating a markedly different room from last year.

Roberts stands out as the most consistent, proven option in a room loaded with names that carry question marks. He logged nearly 500 Steelers snaps last season, earning elite marks in run defense (90.4 run-stop grade) but weaker in coverage (50.9). The Raiders expect him to set the tone, mentor newcomers, and stabilize the defense as they blend four veterans with a pair of big-name newcomers in Adams and White, plus Pratt, in a scheme overseen by Graham with input from Pete Carroll’s perspective.

Fantasy angles center on Roberts as a high-floor, tackle-heavy option whose presence could buoy the run-stopping ceiling of the unit. Adams and White bring blitz and disruption potential, Pratt adds versatility, and the overall LB corps should generate more consistent back-end production if deployment aligns with strengths. The Raiders’ approach is to leverage Roberts as the anchor while others rotate into familiar roles behind him, maximizing the group’s collective impact in a more stable, leadership-driven defense.

The Houston Texans are gearing up for their 2025 season opener with just 45 days to go before they face off against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. The countdown features an exploration of players who have donned the iconic No. 45 jersey since the team's inception in 2002.

Currently, No. 45 is held by linebacker E.J. Speed, who recently transitioned from the Indianapolis Colts. After two impressive seasons, including a standout 142-tackle performance last year, Speed aims to solidify his role in the Texans' defense alongside Azeez Al-Shaair. Other notable players to have worn No. 45 include Devin White, Obo Okoronkwo, and Jay Prosch, though none have quite matched Speed's recent impact on the field.

The Houston Texans have bolstered their linebacker corps by signing E.J. Speed to a one-year deal after losing key players in free agency. Speed, who brings six years of NFL experience from the Indianapolis Colts, is expected to enhance the Texans' special teams, having previously excelled in that role. With notable performances including multiple blocked punts returned for touchdowns, Speed's contributions could be pivotal as the Texans aim to solidify their defense.

Beyond his special teams capabilities, Speed's defensive prowess is notable. He transitioned from a part-time player to a full-time starter, recording a career-high 93 solo tackles last season, ranking third in the NFL. His experience will be invaluable for the Texans as they navigate injuries among their top linebackers. The Texans hope Speed can fill any gaps left by departing players and enhance their competitive edge within the division.

Devin White, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' former first-round draft pick, has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, embarking on a new chapter in his NFL career. After a promising start that included a Super Bowl victory, White's trajectory with the Buccaneers took a downturn, leading to his release. He briefly joined the Eagles and Texans, but now returns to the league under familiar guidance from Raiders’ GM John Spytek, who was part of the Buccaneers' front office during White's selection in 2019.

This signing represents a pivotal opportunity for White, offering him a chance at redemption and success in Las Vegas, especially under Spytek's mentorship. The Raiders are looking to leverage his talent in their defensive strategy, making this a storyline to watch closely in the upcoming season.

The Las Vegas Raiders have secured a significant addition to their linebacker core by signing former Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Devin White to a one-year contract. White, a fifth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and a one-time Pro Bowler, joins the Raiders after a tumultuous stint that included a release from the Philadelphia Eagles and a brief tenure with the Houston Texans. His arrival addresses a critical need following Divine Deablo's departure in free agency. Raiders GM John Spytek, who previously worked with White during his time in Tampa, bets on his potential to return to elite form.

Despite White's recent struggles, including being let go from two teams in a single season, the Raiders hope that his experience and past performance will elevate their defensive unit. His speed and playmaking ability could provide the Raiders with the boost they desperately need on the field, as they prepare for a new season. The success of this acquisition will hinge on White's ability to regain his confidence and prove he can still be a dominant force in the NFL.