Just a year ago, the Las Vegas Raiders made headlines by signing a premier defensive tackle to one of the richest contracts for a defender in the NFL during free agency.
Fast forward twelve months, and the two sides have officially parted ways. On Thursday night, the Raiders announced via social media that they had released the player, cutting ties only one season into a five-year, $110 million agreement.
The defensive lineman sustained a Jones fracture in his foot during Week 5 against the Denver Broncos and was sidelined for the rest of the season. After undergoing initial surgery, he was later placed on the Reserve/PUP list on July 18. Just days after that move, the team opted to release him.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the decision came after a disagreement between the player and team regarding a second surgical procedure. The Raiders reportedly pushed for additional surgery, but the player declined to go through with it.
In an official statement, the organization said:
“We believe it is in the best interest of the team to move forward, and we’ve informed the player of his release. Our franchise is built on a standard of excellence both on and off the field. With no definitive plan or timeline for a return to play, this move allows us to focus fully on the upcoming season.”
While some speculated a possible return to his former team, reports suggest that a reunion is unlikely.
Financially, the Raiders had already paid out approximately $22 million of the $57 million guaranteed at the time of signing. The remaining $35.2 million in guaranteed money was voided by the team in June, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. However, the player has since filed a grievance with the NFLPA, challenging the voided compensation.
Raiders’ Updated Defensive Tackle Depth Chart:
With the release finalized, Las Vegas will lean on the following players at the defensive tackle position heading into training camp:
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Adam Butler
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Leki Fotu
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Zach Carter
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Tonka Hemingway
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JJ Pegues
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Jonah Laulu
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Tank Booker
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Treven Ma’ae