Las Vegas Raiders bolster depth at linebacker and quarterback with practice squad signings
The Las Vegas Raiders announced a late-week push to strengthen their roster, signing linebacker Brian Asamoah II and quarterback Jeff Driskel to the practice squad. In a corresponding move, Las Vegas released linebacker Matt Jones and safety Trey Taylor. The announcements came as the team continues to shape its depth ahead of the regular season.
Brian Asamoah II arrives in Las Vegas after a path that saw him drafted by Minnesota in the third round and spend time with the Vikings before being released. In three seasons with Minnesota, Asamoah appeared in 46 games and totaled 30 tackles, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. His most significant contributions in recent years came on special teams, with limited defensive snaps during his time in Minnesota. The move to the Raiders marks a fresh opportunity for the young linebacker, who has yet to establish himself as a consistent defensive contributor in the league.
The Raiders currently roster six linebackers who could compete for snaps in 2025: Germaine Pratt, Elandon Roberts, Devin White, Tommy Eichenberg, Jamal Adams, and Cody Lindenberg. That group leans veteran-heavy at the top, with young players in the mix behind them. Asamoah’s best path to making a roster likely hinges on standout special-teams play and impressing on the practice squad in hopes of earning a defensive role if injuries or performance deplete the position.
Asamoah’s previous coaches and evaluators noted that his development stalled in some systems, particularly when the Vikings shifted defensive philosophies under new coordinators. The Raiders’ decision to bring in Asamoah reflects a broader approach to add depth and variety to the linebacker room, giving head coach and staff more options should injuries or matchup considerations arise during the season.
Jeff Driskel’s addition to the Raiders’ practice squad provides additional quarterback depth behind the primary depth chart, offering an experienced arm who can step in if needed. Driskel has familiarity with multiple NFL systems and could be a helpful resource in practice as the team continues to fine-tune its playbook and installation.
From a broader perspective, the move illustrates how teams continually search for affordable, veteran-tinged depth to bridge gaps between positions. For Asamoah, this is another chance to prove he belongs in the league by contributing on special teams and seizing the opportunity on defense when the chance arises. For the Raiders, the pair of practice squad signings adds insurance and competition across two important spots as they prepare for a demanding season schedule.
Summary: The Raiders added Brian Asamoah II and Jeff Driskel to the practice squad, releasing Matt Jones and Trey Taylor in the process. Asamoah’s career has been characterized by flashes but limited defensive workload, while Driskel brings veteran quarterback depth. The move aligns with Las Vegas’s ongoing effort to bolster depth at linebacker and quarterback, with the goal of creating a more flexible and resilient roster.
Note: This rewrite focuses on the facts surrounding the practice squad signings and the broader context of the Raiders’ linebacking corps and quarterback depth. It aims to provide a clear, positive framing while highlighting potential paths for Asamoah to contribute moving forward. If you’d like, I can add a brief player profile box with quick stats and a “What this means for …” section tailored to your site’s style.