Raiders Bolster Defense with Jamal Adams Signing Right Before Camp

To compensate for the additions, four players were released. These were roster bubble players such as Mello Dotson.

Is Jamal Adams going to be a starter?

Recently, injuries have become synonymous with Adams. 2023 and 2024 were riddled with knee and hip injuries. However, from 2018 to 2020, he was a Pro Bowl candidate and an All-Pro-level player. No. 33 is one of the best blitzing defensive backs in history. He totaled 19.5 sacks in three seasons.

Altogether, the safety will compete for a spot on this roster. But Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola-Mao will make it difficult for him to start. The main discrepancy in his playstyle is the lack of coverage skills. He finished 2024 with a 35.5 Pro Football Focus coverage grade.

As a result, the Raiders are likely to utilize him in the box. This could mean he will play as an extra linebacker in a position group that lacks strength. Adams asserts that he is in the best shape of his life and is prepared to compete.

J.T. Woods and Phillip Dorsett signed with the Raiders…

Besides Adams, the next two known names include Woods and Dorsett. Dorsett is a familiar name, as he has bounced around multiple franchises recently. He played in two games in 2023 and was unable to dress for a game in 2024. Due to the youth in the wide receiver room, the 32-year-old could compete for a spot on the roster.

On the other hand, Woods is a lot less likely to earn a spot on the roster. He is a versatile defensive back. In short, Woods has not had a jumpstart to his career. He only started in one game in his rookie season. Additionally, he finished last season with five tackles. Maybe this coaching regime can unlock his full potential.

It was a hectic day for the Raiders front office. Hopefully, these moves will result in more victories during the 2025 campaign.