Pete Carroll Fulfilling His Promise as Raiders Retain Key Defensive Players

 

When Pete Carroll took over as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, he made it clear that one of his top priorities was keeping as many key defensive players as possible. Despite the challenges of free agency, where teams like the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots have been willing to offer significantly higher salaries, Carroll has managed to retain several important contributors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Raiders have successfully re-signed key defenders such as Malcolm Koonce, Adam Butler, and Darnay Holmes, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a strong defensive unit. Now, they’ve secured another piece of their roster, reinforcing their depth and continuity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retaining Depth in the Secondary

 

 

 

 

 

The Raiders’ latest move involves bringing back a player who, while not necessarily a household name, has played a valuable role when called upon. Injuries often test a team’s depth, and having reliable backup options can make a significant difference over the course of a long NFL season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last season, the Raiders’ secondary was deeper than in previous years, limiting some players’ opportunities. However, injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and having dependable backups ensures that the defense remains steady even when starters are sidelined. With this philosophy in mind, the Raiders have opted to bring back a familiar face, reinforcing their defensive depth while preserving the continuity of a unit that has been performing at a high level.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sam Webb Returns to Las Vegas

 

Cornerback Sam Webb is the latest player to be retained by the Raiders. Though he wasn’t a high-profile draft pick, Webb has made his mark on the team since first joining as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 195 pounds, he possesses the size and athleticism that teams look for in a defensive back. His 4.48-second 40-yard dash time at the 2022 NFL Combine showcased his speed, making him a promising addition to the Raiders’ secondary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Webb’s rookie season with Las Vegas was impressive for an undrafted player. He appeared in all 17 games, including three starts, and recorded 36 tackles, three passes defensed, and one forced fumble. His ability to step up in critical moments made him one of the more productive undrafted rookies that season, particularly in terms of total tackles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over the course of his career, Webb has played in 29 games, recording 37 tackles, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble. While his role has primarily been on special teams and as a backup in the defensive rotation, his contributions have not gone unnoticed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Rollercoaster Journey with the Raiders

 

Webb’s time with the Raiders has had its share of ups and downs. In August 2023, he was released by the team and briefly joined the Carolina Panthers before making his way back to Las Vegas later that season. While his playing time in coverage was limited last year—seeing just three snaps in pass defense—his presence on the roster indicates that the coaching staff values what he brings to the team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There’s more to a successful defense than just star players; depth is essential, and the Raiders recognize the importance of having reliable backups who understand the system. Webb may not be a high-profile name, but his familiarity with the defense and ability to step in when needed make him a valuable piece of the puzzle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Building Stability in the Secondary

 

Re-signing Webb is part of a broader strategy to maintain continuity on a defense that has been one of the team’s strengths. Carroll understands the value of keeping players who know the system, especially in a league where roster turnover is constant. Even if Webb doesn’t see extensive playing time, his presence provides insurance against injuries and ensures that the secondary has experienced options when needed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the Raiders looking to build a formidable defense under Carroll’s leadership, keeping players like Webb is a smart move. Depth players may not always get the recognition that star defenders do, but their contributions are crucial in maintaining consistency throughout the season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the Raiders continue to shape their roster, it’s clear that Carroll is staying true to his word. He expressed a strong desire to retain key defensive players, and so far, he’s making good on that promise. While the offseason isn’t over yet, the team’s commitment to defensive stability is evident. By keeping core contributors and reinforcing their depth, the Raiders are positioning themselves for sustained success in the upcoming season.