Raiders: 5 moves to clear $13 million in cap space for 2022

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 21: Outside linebacker Cory Littleton #42 of the Las Vegas Raiders prepares for a play during the second half of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Allegiant Stadium on November 21, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bengals defeated the Raiders 32-13. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 21: Outside linebacker Cory Littleton #42 of the Las Vegas Raiders prepares for a play during the second half of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Allegiant Stadium on November 21, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bengals defeated the Raiders 32-13. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /
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Nov 22, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (25) against Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski (44) in the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Raiders: 5 moves to clear $13 million in cap space for 2022

Cut Nick Kwiatkoski

Another big defensive signing for the Raiders in March of 2020 was linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski, who played at a high level for the team in his first season with the franchise. Kwiatkoski started 12 games for the Raiders in 2020, racked up 80 tackles, and at times, was the only solid linebacker on the roster.

In 2021, Kwiatkoski appeared in only eight games, making zero starts, and it is clear he has no position on this defense anymore. Denzel Perryman was outstanding in 2021, leading the NFL in tackles, and Divine Deablo is likely to man a starting spot on this defense in 2022 as well. Overall, the Raiders will target the linebacker group this offseason, but Kwiatkoski is not likely to be a part of the solution.

This one is actually a no-brainer and one that I expect the Raiders to make happen as soon as it is possible, saving $3.2+ million. Kwiatkoski is a good depth linebacker, but he is being paid starter money, and will not be a start on this roster next season.