The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for a transformative 2025 NFL season with new general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll at the helm. Following a bold approach, the team has made significant changes to their defense, notably parting ways with both starting safeties, Tre'Von Moehrig and Marcus Epps, who left in free agency. These decisions signal a clear intent to shift the team’s defensive strategies and improve overall performance.

In preparation for training camp, the Raiders are likely to experiment with their defensive backfield, exploring new talent and strategies that align with Carroll's philosophy. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these adjustments will impact the team's defensive schemes and performance in the upcoming season.

The New England Patriots have made a strategic move by signing veteran safety Marcus Epps to a one-year, $4.4 million deal, aimed at bolstering their secondary. Epps, who recorded 17 tackles in three games last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, brings valuable experience from his time under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. After a torn ACL cut short his last season, he enters a crowded defensive backfield alongside Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers. This signing aligns with the Patriots' trend of focusing on defensive upgrades this offseason.

Notably, the Patriots have also secured other defensive talents, including defensive tackle Milton Williams, edge rusher Harold Landry III, linebacker Robert Spillane, and cornerback Carlton Davis, signaling a concerted effort to enhance their defense significantly for the upcoming season. Epps's ability to thrive in a rotational role adds depth, making the Patriots’ defense increasingly formidable on paper.

Isaiah Pola-Mao has secured a two-year contract extension with the Las Vegas Raiders, valued at up to $8.45 million. Initially an undrafted rookie, Pola-Mao stepped up impressively last season, starting 14 games after Marcus Epps' injury. The 25-year-old safety recorded 89 tackles, two forced fumbles, and five pass breakups, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. His performance included a notable interception against Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins. As a former player at USC, he's the nephew of Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu, and will now play under Polamalu's college coach, Pete Carroll.

The Las Vegas Raiders are poised to make significant moves during the upcoming free agency, armed with over $92 million in cap space, the second-highest in the league. General manager John Spytek has challenging decisions ahead as multiple key defensive players, notably starting safeties Tre'von Moehrig and Marcus Epps, are set to hit free agency. Moehrig, fresh off a career-best season, could command a lucrative contract, potentially around $15 million annually. The Raiders face a dilemma: match a hefty offer for Moehrig or let him go. Epps, returning from a torn ACL, may also find himself replaced unless he can secure a team-friendly deal. The team will likely keep Isaiah Pola-Mao due to his performance filling in for Epps. With the option to pursue veterans like Justin Simmons or Jeremy Chinn, or draft talents such as Xavier Watts or Nick Emmanwori, safety remains a critical focus for the Raiders this offseason.