Grading the signing: Raiders overhaul their linebacker room with two former college teammates

The Raiders got two stud linebackers.

Justin Churchill — College Football & NFL Trending News Writer
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Georgia Bulldogs linebackers Nakobe Dean Quay Walker Las Vegas Raiders free agency
Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders were active on Monday, the first day of the two-day negotiating period. They signed or re-signed seven players, each of whom fits the team’s new direction. The most surprising moves were the linebacker signings.

Linebacker was among the biggest issues for this roster, aside from quarterback. General manager John Spytek aggressively targeted quality players and spent significantly. Dean received a three-year deal worth $36 million, with $20 million guaranteed. Quay Walker’s contract is three years, $40.5 million, with $28 million guaranteed. If all goes well, Spytek may have fixed a longstanding linebacker problem. Let’s grade these two signings.

Grading the Raiders’ signing of linebackers Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean

Grade for Quay Walker: A-

This signing is a joke for Vegas. As we already stated, the position group was horrible, with players like Devin White and Elandon Roberts as the best two LBs on the roster last season. At one point, Vegas even moved Jamal Adams, the former safety, into the position. Walker still has a lot of untapped potential, especially as an outside linebacker in this 3-4 defense. He was often not played in a way that best suited his skill set. The Raiders will rely on him in a big way, and he could certainly deliver. No matter what, he is miles better than what Vegas already had.

Grade for Nakobe Dean: B+

No matter what, he’s better than what the Raiders already had. The price is great when you think about what he can be at his best. However, Dean has struggled with injuries throughout his career. Then again, the Raiders are bringing in a Super Bowl winner to teach this defense what it takes not only to be elite, but to win. Dean will be a great MIKE linebacker in Rob Leonard’s 3-4 defense.

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