RAIDERS TURMOIL: Star Defender at Odds with Coaching Staff Over Defensive Strategy

Tensions are quietly escalating behind the scenes in Las Vegas, where sources close to the Raiders report that linebacker Divine Deablo is growing increasingly frustrated with his evolving role in the team’s defensive scheme.

“He’s always been a vocal leader,” one teammate shared anonymously. “But lately, he’s been sidelined in key moments, and that’s not sitting well with him.”

The friction reportedly began during minicamp, when Deablo voiced concerns over a new alignment that, in his view, limited his ability to play aggressively downhill — one of his signature strengths. Multiple insiders have noted visible tension during practices, including a heated sideline conversation between Deablo and a position coach that drew the attention of teammates.

While head coach Antonio Pierce has downplayed any internal issues, calling it “a competitive room with strong personalities,” several team insiders suggest the dispute has disrupted locker room chemistry in recent weeks.

With the 2025 season approaching, all eyes will be on whether the Raiders can patch things up — or whether Divine Deablo’s displeasure signals a deeper rift on the defensive side of the ball.