The Las Vegas Raiders’ defense is experiencing a significant overhaul heading into the 2025 season, even though defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and much of his staff remain in place.
The roster has seen major changes, with several key defenders—Tre’von Moehrig, Robert Spillane, Marcus Epps, Divine Deablo, and Nate Hobbs—departing in free agency.
Further reshaping the defense, starting cornerback Jack Jones is being released, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
“The #Raiders are releasing CB Jack Jones, sources say, after Las Vegas attempted to trade him. An intriguing option for a CB-needy team,” Rapoport reported.
The team had tried to move Jones via trade, but with no takers, they opted to release him outright.
This decision reflects a noticeable shift in the team’s strategic direction.
While Jones’ $3.4 million cap hit may have played a role, the timing is questionable, especially considering the Raiders made minimal efforts to bolster the cornerback room in free agency after losing Hobbs.
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Though Jones’ performance was inconsistent, he was a 16-game starter last year and offered some reliability in the secondary.
His release is even more surprising given his strong bond with former head coach Antonio Pierce, who mentored him both in high school and college.
The Raiders’ cornerback situation is increasingly concerning.
As it stands, Jakorian Bennett is the lone returning starter from the 2024 season opener.
There’s optimism that 2024 draft pick Decamerion Richardson can contribute, but even with his potential, the position lacks depth.
Unless the team uses their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on running back Ashton Jeanty, they will likely need to prioritize selecting a cornerback.