Raiders sign former first-round pick to bolster defense

The Las Vegas Raiders added depth to a thin pass-rushing group, adding former first-round pick Datone Jones to the roster.

The Las Vegas Raiders signed defensive end Datone Jones on Wednesday, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, adding some veteran depth to an inexperienced pass-rushing group headlined by Maxx Crosby and Clelin Ferrell.

Jones, a 2013 first-round pick by the Packers, has failed to live up to his draft slot, tallying just ten career sacks and bouncing around the league following the end of his rookie contract in Green Bay. The Raiders will be his seventh NFL team, although he never saw game action with the Vikings, Lions, or Jaguars.

Datone Jones provides a veteran depth presence on a young Raiders d-line

Jones is perhaps most famous for being selected a pick ahead of All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, an unfortunate reality for Packers fans after the UCLA alum tallied just nine sacks during his four years with the team.

He should, however, bring some depth to the Raiders defense. With the COVID-19 pandemic still a major concern for NFL teams, having an abundance of depth, at least in training camp, can never hurt. If the Las Vegas coaching staff can unlock the pass-rushing potential that made Jones a first-round pick, he could be a steal.

Raiders fans are not likely to be thrilled by the signing, with many likely hoping for a big-ticket name like Jadeveon Clowney or Everson Griffen, the front office clearly believes in young pass-rushers like Crosby, Ferrell and Arden Key.

While Jones may not be a household name, the Raiders obviously feel comfortable bringing him in for a look, and he should compete for a roster spot during training camp. With a little bit of luck, Las Vegas could see him earn a rotational role along the defensive line.