The Las Vegas Raiders are undergoing a significant transformation heading into the 2025 season, spearheaded by new General Manager John Spytek and Head Coach Pete Carroll after a disappointing four-win season in 2024. While the team has addressed several areas this offseason, some decisions, particularly in the linebacker department, have raised concerns among Raider Nation.
The departures of Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo in free agency, replaced by Elandon Roberts and Devin White, sparked debate. Concerns linger about the depth and experience of the linebacker corps, with Jaylon Smith, Tommy Eichenberg, Amari Gainer, and Cody Lindenberg expected to fill out the rotation. The fan base worries as some players are deemed past their prime while others are unproven at the NFL level.
Elandon Roberts Praises Young Linebackers, Specifically Eichenberg
Elandon Roberts, however, offered a more optimistic perspective during a recent media interaction. The veteran linebacker expressed confidence in his teammates, particularly highlighting the potential of second-year player Tommy Eichenberg.
"Man, these young ones, these young guys, they really push me," Roberts stated. "Tommy Eichenberg is doing a great job in our room, and then (linebackers coach John Glenn), he brings the juice every day. I feel very, very excited about our room."
Eichenberg's Potential and Roberts' Experience
Eichenberg, a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, entered his rookie season with considerable expectations, buoyed by Antonio Pierce's endorsement. However, he saw limited action, recording only 13 tackles across 80 defensive snaps, primarily on special teams.
Roberts' perspective carries significant weight. As a two-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, the nine-year veteran possesses a keen eye for talent and potential. His positive assessment of Eichenberg and the linebacker room as a whole offers a glimmer of hope for Raiders fans concerned about the team's defensive capabilities heading into the 2025 season. The Raiders hope Roberts' experience and leadership can help mold the younger players into dependable contributors.