New Team, Familiar Faces:: Devin White joins the Raiders on a one-year deal, reuniting with Las Vegas GM John Spytek (who was in Tampa's front office when White was drafted) and minority owner Tom Brady (his former Super Bowl-winning teammate).
High Pedigree Player:: White, 27, was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, earning Pro Bowl (2021) and second-team All-Pro (2020) honors, and winning Super Bowl LV with the Buccaneers.
Recent Turbulence:: His time in Tampa ended after contract disputes and a trade request in 2023. He then had brief, unsuccessful stints with the Philadelphia Eagles (released without playing due to injury) and the Houston Texans (played sparingly in 7 games) during the 2024 season.
Why this matters:: The Raiders acquire a player with a high ceiling on a low-risk, short-term contract to address needs at linebacker. For White, it's a crucial opportunity to prove he can return to his previous high level of play and revive his career.
Devin White entered the league with high expectations as the fifth overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019. He quickly became a cornerstone of their defense, known for his sideline-to-sideline speed and playmaking ability. His peak came during the 2020 season, where he recorded 140 tackles and 9 sacks, earned second-team All-Pro honors, and played a pivotal role in the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV victory alongside Tom Brady.
However, White's relationship with the Buccaneers soured heading into the 2023 season. Seeking a top-market contract extension, he requested a trade when one didn't materialize. His performance dipped, and he lost playing time, leading to his departure after the season.
White's attempt to reset his career in 2024 hit immediate roadblocks. He signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles worth potentially up to $7.5 million, but suffered an injury before the season began and was ultimately released in early October without ever playing a snap for the team. He later signed with the Houston Texans, appearing in seven games primarily as a reserve, logging just 19 tackles.
The Las Vegas Raiders, having lost starting linebackers Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo in free agency, needed reinforcement at the position. The presence of GM John Spytek, who was involved in drafting White in Tampa, and former teammate Tom Brady as a minority owner likely played a role in bringing White to Las Vegas. It's a 'prove-it' scenario for White on a one-year contract, giving the Raiders a chance to capture upside from a former star while providing White a platform to re-establish his value.
Why did Devin White leave the Buccaneers?
His departure followed disagreements over a contract extension, a subsequent trade request prior to the 2023 season, and reported friction regarding his role and performance.
What happened during White's time with the Eagles?
He signed a one-year contract in the 2024 offseason but sustained an injury before Week 1 and was released by the team in October 2024 without appearing in any games.
The Raiders are making a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing by bringing in Devin White.
For White, this is a critical juncture; performing well in Las Vegas could revitalize his career.
Raiders fans gain a former defensive star motivated to prove he still belongs among the league's impact players.
Can Devin White recapture his All-Pro form with the Raiders? Let us know your thoughts!
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