Tuesday was a tough day for every NFL team across the league, as teams cut their rosters down from 90 players to 53 in the span of just hours. Or, if you're like the Las Vegas Raiders, you release a few players all day, and then 30 minutes after the deadline, release the full list of players all at once. But, hey, some teams are different.
During the roster-cutting process, the Raiders made some moves that were expected, just based on what we know about where this roster stands, who the practice-squad level players are, and what the roster needs more than in other areas. However, some things happened that were a bit unexpected.
The Raiders released a few players that I had made the roster and one that, while I didn't have to make the roster, others did. So, all around there are at least three guys who didn't make the 53-man roster that were a bit surprising.
Three Raiders who were surprise cuts
Jaydon Grant, S
After going undrafted, Grant signed with the Raiders as a free agent in 2023, where he was initially part of the practice squad before earning a more active role. Heading into the 2024 season, Grant was part of the Raiders' safety rotation, showing promise in preseason games. However, as part of the roster cutdown to meet the 53-man roster limit, Grant was waived by the Raiders.
His ability to contribute in both defensive and special teams roles was highlighted, indicating a well-rounded skill set for an NFL safety. Honestly, I thought he might make the roster, especially with Trey Taylor being injured and placed on a list that doesn't count towards the 53-man. But, they let him hit the waiver wire.
After seeing his improvements this offseason, I can tell you, he won't make it back to the Raiders on the waiver wire.
Charles Snowden, DE
Snowden went undrafted but signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent in 2021. His early NFL career was marked by stints on practice squads and brief active roster appearances. He moved to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022 before joining the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023, initially on their practice squad.
Heading into the 2024 season, Snowden was part of the Raiders' defensive line rotation during preseason games. He played really well, especially in their last game against the San Francisco 49ers, where he had a sack and several other key plays. However, during the roster cutdown to meet the 53-man roster limit, he was waived by the Raiders, and the team went with Janarius Robinson
Given his waiver status, Snowden's immediate future might involve either being claimed by another team or possibly re-signing with the Raiders' practice squad if he clears waivers. This one was stunning because I felt like he did enough in the preseason.
Woo Governor, DB
After going undrafted, Governor signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent, aiming to make his mark in the NFL. During the 2024 preseason, Governor has shown promise, particularly as a nickelback. He earned a 68.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, indicating solid play against both the run and in coverage. His ability to limit yardage after catch and his tackling proficiency were great. This performance has put him in contention for a backup role in the Raiders' secondary, showcasing his potential to contribute to the team's depth at cornerback.
Governor's performance suggests he could be a valuable asset for the Raiders, especially in situations requiring a nickelback. His physicality and technique in coverage have been praised, with analysts pointing out his ability to read plays and react effectively, which is crucial for a cornerback in today's NFL.
This one hurt the most for me personally, because I'm so high on Governor, and feel like he can be a backup nickel right now, even as an undrafted free agent. He played so well in the preseason, that it just didn't feel right for him not to be on the roster.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders' initial 53-man roster: Fan favorite UDFAs and day three rookies make the cut
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