After Year Off, Veteran LB Smith Signs With Las Vegas Raiders

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Post on May 14, 2025

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After Year Off, Veteran LB Smith Signs with Las Vegas Raiders

Las Vegas, NV – The Las Vegas Raiders have added a seasoned veteran to their linebacker corps, signing former Pro Bowler, K.J. Smith, after a year away from the NFL. The announcement, made late Tuesday evening, sent ripples through the league, igniting speculation about the Raiders' defensive strategy for the upcoming season. Smith's signing signifies a significant boost to a unit looking to solidify its position in a fiercely competitive AFC West.

The details of the contract remain undisclosed, but sources close to the negotiations suggest it's a one-year deal, with incentives potentially pushing the value significantly higher based on playing time and performance. This structure reflects a common strategy for teams signing veteran free agents, balancing risk and reward while addressing immediate needs.

<h3>Smith's NFL Journey: From Pro Bowl to Free Agency</h3>

K.J. Smith, a former second-round draft pick, carved a successful career with the [Previous Team Name], consistently ranking among the league leaders in tackles and showcasing exceptional leadership qualities on the field. His 2021 season, culminating in a Pro Bowl selection, underscored his talent and solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with. However, an injury plagued 2022 season led to his release, leaving him sidelined for the entirety of the year.

Now fully recovered, Smith is eager to prove his worth and contribute to a Raiders defense that struggled at times last season. His experience and veteran leadership will be invaluable in mentoring younger players and providing stability to a unit undergoing transformation.

<h3>What Smith Brings to the Raiders</h3>

Smith's addition brings a multitude of benefits to the Las Vegas Raiders:

• Proven Leadership: His years of experience and Pro Bowl recognition make him an immediate leader in the locker room.
• Solid Tackling Ability: Smith is renowned for his consistent tackling prowess, a crucial asset in stopping the run.
• Veteran Mentorship: His presence will be invaluable in guiding younger linebackers and elevating the overall performance of the unit.
• Versatility: Smith's ability to play multiple linebacker positions adds flexibility to the Raiders' defensive schemes.
• Playoff Experience: Smith's participation in numerous playoff games provides an invaluable edge in high-pressure situations.

<h3>Impact on the Raiders' Defense</h3>

The signing of K.J. Smith significantly alters the dynamics of the Raiders' defense. It suggests a renewed focus on improving the team's run defense, a key area of concern in recent seasons. His leadership and experience are expected to bolster the unit's overall performance and cohesion. The impact will likely be most felt in run defense, but his presence could also elevate the overall performance of the entire defensive unit.

<h3>Looking Ahead</h3>

The acquisition of K.J. Smith is a shrewd move by the Raiders, addressing a critical need while adding a player with proven talent and leadership qualities. While his age and recent injury history present some risk, the potential rewards far outweigh the concerns. With training camp just around the corner, all eyes are on Smith to see how he integrates into the team and contributes to the Raiders' quest for a playoff berth in the highly competitive AFC West. The Las Vegas Raiders' decision to sign him signals a renewed commitment to building a strong and competitive defense, setting the stage for an exciting season.