Done Deal: LB Jaylon Smith Signs with Raiders as Free Agent
The Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold move to bolster their defense, officially signing veteran linebacker Jaylon Smith in free agency. The deal, confirmed earlier today by team sources and Smith’s representatives, brings added experience and athleticism to a Raiders defense looking to make a leap in the 2025 season.
Smith, 29, had been one of the top remaining free agents on the market. After spending time with multiple teams in recent years—including the Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and most recently the New Orleans Saints—Smith now lands in Las Vegas with a fresh opportunity to reestablish himself as a key contributor in a starting linebacker role.
🏈 A Fresh Start in the Silver & Black
Once viewed as one of the NFL’s most dynamic young linebackers, Smith’s career has taken several twists. After overcoming a catastrophic knee injury suffered in college, he became a Pro Bowler with the Cowboys and was known for his range, instincts, and tackling ability. However, inconsistency and scheme fit issues led to a series of short stints with other teams.
Now, with the Raiders in a transitional phase under head coach Antonio Pierce, Smith’s arrival could be pivotal. The team has been searching for a veteran presence to lead a young defensive unit, particularly at the linebacker position—an area of need the franchise has struggled to stabilize in recent seasons.
Sources indicate the contract is a one-year prove-it deal, structured to allow Smith to earn incentives based on playing time and performance. The move is low-risk for the Raiders, but high-reward if Smith can return to form.
🔥 Immediate Impact Expected
Smith brings leadership, playoff experience, and a chip on his shoulder—something that aligns with the Raiders’ tough, aggressive defensive identity. With a strong training camp, he’s expected to compete for a starting spot and potentially wear the green dot as the defensive play-caller.
The Raiders’ linebacker room now includes Smith alongside Divine Deablo, Luke Masterson, and rookie additions from the draft. The competition is open, but Smith’s experience and physical tools could set him apart quickly.
🎙️ Jaylon Smith’s Statement
In a brief statement posted on social media, Smith said:
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Raider Nation. Time to get to work and prove I belong among the league’s best. Let’s make it special in Vegas.”
💬 What This Means for the Raiders
This signing is part of a larger offseason strategy by the Raiders to reinforce the defensive side of the ball without overcommitting cap space. With Smith in the fold, the team hopes to bring more balance to a roster that has leaned heavily on offensive stars like Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs.
Smith’s presence also offers mentorship to younger players and could serve as a stabilizing force in the locker room—a quality that head coach Antonio Pierce, a former linebacker himself, likely values deeply.
With camp approaching and expectations rising in Las Vegas, the Jaylon Smith signing adds a compelling layer to the Raiders’ 2025 narrative.
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