The Las Vegas Raiders' 53-man roster cuts are always a hot topic, and this year's batch of players who missed the cut but deserve recognition is no exception. Here's a breakdown of some of the players who, in my opinion, were snubbed by the Raiders' front office.
Cian Slone: The Rising Star
Cian Slone, an EDGE player, had a strong showing during training camp and the preseason. While Patrick Johnson may have had a better preseason, Slone's potential as a rookie is undeniable. The Raiders' decision to keep Johnson over Slone could be seen as a missed opportunity, especially with Keyron Crawford's season-ending injury. Slone's performance and the team's need for depth at the EDGE position make him a strong contender for a spot on the practice squad, and his future with the team looks promising.
Greedy Vance: The Rising Defensive Back
Greedy Vance, a 2025 UDFA, made a name for himself in training camp with a couple of interceptions. His performance against the Arizona Cardinals in the preseason game was impressive. Despite being waived, Vance's talent is evident, and his return to the practice squad is a positive sign. With the Raiders' secondary filled with young talent, Vance's potential to make an impact this season is high, and he could be a key player in the team's future.
Will Putnam: The Versatile Offensive Lineman
The Raiders' offensive line was a tough position to call, with Putnam, Jordan Meredith, and Atonio Mafi all competing for a spot. Putnam's struggle in pass protection during the preseason was a concern, but his experience playing center could be a valuable asset. With Tyler Linderbaum's backup job uncertain, Putnam's return to the practice squad provides an opportunity to prove his worth. His versatility and potential to step up when needed make him a player to watch.
Segun Olubi: The Special Teams Ace
Segun Olubi, a linebacker, stood out defensively with tackles against the Houston Texans. However, the coaching staff's decision to keep only four linebackers on the 53-man roster and opt for Cameron McGrone over Olubi on the practice squad was surprising. Olubi's value as a special teamer and his defensive contributions make him a player who could be called up during the season. His versatility and potential impact on special teams make him a key player to watch.
Brandon Cleveland: The Quiet Performer
Brandon Cleveland, a defensive tackle, had a quiet summer but made a strong impression in the final preseason game. His performance, including tying for the team lead in total tackles and leading in TFLs, was impressive. However, the late addition of Foley Fatukasi may have sealed Cleveland's fate. His chance to make a name for himself on the practice squad is still there, and his consistent performance could be a valuable asset for the team.
Gary Smith III: The Consistent Nose Tackle
Gary Smith III, a nose tackle from UCLA, didn't make many plays during the preseason but held his gap consistently. His limited skill set may not have stood out, but his ability to hold his ground is a valuable trait. With the arrival of Fatukasi, Smith's odds of making the team may be slim, but his potential as a practice-squad call-up is high. His consistency and ability to fill a need on the defense make him a player to watch.
