Raiders Release Cornerback Jack Jones After Unsuccessful Trade Attempts
In a surprising move that has left many fans and analysts buzzing, the Las Vegas Raiders have decided to release cornerback Jack Jones. This decision comes after the team attempted to trade him, as confirmed by sources to ESPN. The news was first reported by NFL Network, and it has certainly stirred up conversations about the Raiders’ strategy moving forward.
Jack Jones, who was claimed off waivers by the Raiders in 2023 after being released by the New England Patriots, played in 24 games for the team. His time with the Patriots was brief, lasting just one full season before his move to Las Vegas. In 2024, Jones started in 16 games and achieved a career-best in several categories, including 69 tackles, 16 passes defended, and 3 interceptions. However, his performance was not without its challenges. Jones allowed 698 yards, 9 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 108.9 on 88 targets as the nearest defender.
The Raiders’ decision to release Jones is part of a broader reshuffling of their cornerback lineup. With the departure of Nate Hobbs, who signed a four-year deal with the Green Bay Packers, the Raiders’ cornerback room now includes Jakorian Bennett, 2024 fourth-round pick Decamerion Richardson, M.J. Devonshire, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eric Stokes, and Darnay Holmes.
General Manager John Spytek has acknowledged the importance of the nickel cornerback position in the team’s defensive strategy. At the annual league meeting, he stated, “The nickel is a critical spot in Pete [Carroll]’s and [defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s] defense. We stress the importance of that position in our defense. They’re asked to do a lot, and they can be hard to find.”
With this in mind, the Raiders are expected to use the upcoming draft to bolster their depth at cornerback. Potential targets include Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the first round. Additionally, players like Maxwell Hairston from Kentucky and Trey Amos from Ole Miss could be potential Day 2 picks.
- Jack Jones played 24 games with the Raiders.
- In 2024, he recorded 69 tackles, 16 passes defended, and 3 interceptions.
- Allowed 698 yards, 9 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 108.9 on 88 targets.
- Raiders’ cornerback room now includes Jakorian Bennett, Decamerion Richardson, M.J. Devonshire, Kyu Blu Kelly, Eric Stokes, and Darnay Holmes.
As the Raiders look to the future, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team addresses its needs in the draft and how the new lineup will perform in the upcoming season. The release of Jack Jones marks a significant shift in the Raiders’ defensive strategy, and it will be interesting to see how this decision plays out on the field.
Originally Written by: Ryan McFadden
