Las Vegas Raiders: 5 UDFAs with the best chance to make the roster
By Matt Holder
5 UDFAs with a chance to make the Raiders roster this summer.
Javin White
Every year I like to pick one undrafted free agent to root for to make the team. Last season it was Keelan Doss and this year it’s Javin White. As a Bay Area native, I enjoy seeing the local guys thrive so White being from Oakland obviously appeals to me.
The biggest question surrounding the McClymonds High School alum is what position is he going to play? He played a hybrid role in college, switching between linebacker and defensive back responsibilities. At 211 pounds, he’s pretty light to play in the box at the next level, and I don’t think he has the athletic ability and speed to make it as an NFL defensive back.
Las Vegas has White listed as a linebacker on the official roster, which coincides with the organization’s determination to add more athleticism at the position this offseason. If the former Runnin’ Rebel can add some size between now and training camp, he’ll have a legitimate shot at making the roster.
Marquel Lee and Nicholas Morrow are the two holdovers at the position group from last season – not including Kyle Wilber who is more a special teamer – but both have struggled in coverage. Last season, Morrow allowed a passer rating of 97.1 and 10.2 yards per target, while also recording one of the worst PFF coverage grades at the position. Lee has never really been known for his ability to affect the passing game, making him a bit of a liability in today’s version of the NFL.
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Tanner Muse and White could represent a new-aged version of Raiders linebackers who can cover and contribute on special teams. However, that’s dependent upon the latter being able to carry his weight.