This confirms earlier reports that the Las Vegas Raiders were planning to release cornerback Jack Jones, after attempts to trade him failed. Jones’ 24-game career with the Raiders after being claimed off waivers from the New England Patriots in 2022 is now over. His participation will free up $3.4 million in salary cap space for the team. He departed following a season in which he had started 16 games. He broke out that season, posting career-highs in tackles, passes defended, and interceptions.
Jones, who was just one full year removed from AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, struggled heavily in 2024. He flashed plenty of promise as well, but he gave up 698 yards and nine touchdowns. This led to an ugly passer rating of 108.9 on 88 targets where he was the nearest defender. In every sense, the decision to release Jones illustrates the Raiders’ new-found commitment to an aggressive, talent-hauling build of their cornerback unit moving forward.
With Jones now out of the picture, there are several new additions in the Raiders’ cornerback room. It now includes Jakorian Bennett, Decamerion Richardson, M.J. Devonshire, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eric Stokes and Darnay Holmes. And general manager John Spytek didn’t sugarcoat it, saying their scheme allows the nickel position to make plays and they obviously needed to be better there.
“The nickel is a critical spot in Pete [Carroll]’s and [defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s] defense,” – John Spytek
Spytek underscored the difficulties of filling this new role. He touted the quality of the team’s efforts to find good candidates, conceding that the search can often be a frustrating challenge.
The Raiders should use the upcoming draft to help improve their depth at this position. Reports suggest that they may target Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the first round, aiming to bolster their defensive lineup. By addressing this position, they hope to mitigate issues experienced last season while adapting their strategy to fit their defensive philosophy.
It hadn’t previously been reported until NFL Network was the first to pick up the news that Jack Jones had been released. As the Raiders move forward in their offseason plans, they remain focused on assembling a competitive roster capable of meeting the challenges of the upcoming season.
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