Devin White, once a star linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. He’d like nothing more than to recapture his Pro Bowl aura. Since departing from Tampa Bay, White has put up a staggering 83 tackles this season. Now, he’s hungry to prove that he can have a major impact with his new team. The Raiders believe he can fill multiple roles on defense, and his performance during training camp will determine his position.
White’s NFL career started with a ton of promise, as he was chosen with the No. 5 overall pick by Tampa Bay. However, during his four seasons there he registered a whopping 566 tackles. He tallied 23 sacks and defended 21 passes in 76 games. From not playing a snap with the Philadelphia Eagles last year, White’s focused on becoming one of the best again. His goal will be to have an immediate and positive impact on the Raiders’ defensive front.
I’ve still got something to prove,” White said then, revealing his competitive fire to prove it all over again. His dedication is evident with the passion as he takes the field to lead the charge on defense. This unit has changed extensively in personnel over the offseason.
The Raiders’ defensive coach, John Glenn, expressed confidence in White’s ability to adapt to various roles. Glenn was particularly enthusiastic about White’s experience and skill, which are seen as important assets for the team. “Well, [Pratt is] a hard-nosed kid [who] played a lot of football, has been healthy [and] has played all of the positions to give us flexibility that really will help us,” said Glenn regarding the overall linebacker situation.
In practice, White and Elandon Roberts stood out as the first team inside Backers. Germaine Pratt has made a strong impression, potentially solidifying his starting job at the Will linebacker position that White previously occupied. Glenn admitted the changes to the roster but stressed that new opportunities are there for the players who are willing to work and earn it.
We’ve lost some essential pieces, and it’s painful to see people leave. Yet, this unusual circumstance presents the opportunity for new players and new faces to step in and take advantage of the chance at a fresh start. Glenn remarked.
White’s versatility makes him an important weapon for the Raiders’ offense. His versatility to play both Mike and Will linebacker roles is of high value, giving defensive coordinators position and scheme change flexibility. He’s finally through the cloud of a recent foot injury which continued to dog him. Now, he can focus on how to re-imagine his role in the new team dynamic.
Isaiah Pola-Mao, another member of the Raiders’ defense, spoke to White’s leadership ability this past offseason. “White has seen it, he’s done it, and he knows what it’s supposed to look like,” he stated. This leadership is essential as the Raiders look to put together a focused and aggressive defensive crew.
As White continues to acclimate to his new position with the Raiders, he says inspiration comes from his family. His kids would wear his jersey while playing sports, which means they were proud of their father’s achievements. That personal connection is what is driving him to become successful on the field again.
White also said that he was confident in the coaching staff’s plans for him, and what his role on the team would be. He was so moved by Coach Pete Carroll’s authentic style. He too was looking forward to seeing how defensive coordinator Patrick Graham would deploy him in their chess match. “When the success happens, I’ll feel like I had a part in it,” White emphasized, showcasing his commitment to contributing meaningfully.
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