Raiders low-key had one of the worst free agent signings ever

With the release of LaMarcus Joyner, the Las Vegas Raiders might have buyer’s remorse on the signing. 

The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a pivotal offseason. Despite beating the Kansas City Chiefs and holding their own for most of the season, Jon Gruden can’t get over the hump of December, leading to another disappointing year.

The 2021 season is where things are supposed to turn around. That means Mike Mayock and Gruden must discuss which player fits their system and which should hit the free agent market via cuts. The team announced earlier this week they had released wide receiver Tyrell Williams just two years into his four-year deal.

According to The Athletic’s Vic Tafur, Las Vegas could free up near $84 million in cap space with cuts that do not fit the system.

The one that stands out the most is defensive back LaMarcus Joyner. And when looking at his stat line over the past two seasons, there’s a clear indication on why the former Los Angeles standout is worthy of being cut.

Joyner’s production doesn’t match the pay

Joyner, 30, signed a four-year deal back in 2019 worth $42 million. In Paul Gunther’s system, the Raiders tried playing the former Rams safety as a nickel defender. Naturally better deeper in coverage, this plan backfired immediately, leading to big plays from the slot against Joyner.

The Raiders would save roughly $9.95 million in cap space should Joyner be released. Over the past two seasons, Pro Football Focus graded Joyner out with a 47.5 and 53.8 in coverage. Gus Bradley’s Cover 3 system also should profit with 2020 fourth-round pick Amik Roberston playing the slot full-time.

Unless the Raiders are planning on moving Joyner back to his free safety role, this should be a move that happens in the next few days. Granted, the Raiders never used Joyner properly, which led to terrible plays in coverage, but there’s still the part where his overall production needs to match.

Free agent signings are on both parties to thrive. Joyner now could become a name to watch for on a ‘prove it’ deal in a defense that will use him properly.