Two years ago, around this exact time, the Las Vegas Raiders signed linebacker Robert Spillane, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers before playing for the Raiders. And, he was good for the Steelers.
But that franchise is a linebacker factory -- they churn out great ball players at the position like it's nothing. Think about some of the really good players to have played linebacker in the league, specifically inside linebacker, and they probably played for the Steelers. Regardless, Spillane was a dude that was set to come to the Raiders and help with the culture change as well as turn a bad defense into an elite one. It's safe to say he did his job.
But, he played too well during his time with the Raiders -- so well that the Raiders couldn't afford him. Now, he's signed with the New England Patriots on a three-year deal worth $11 million per year. The Raiders signed him to a two-year deal for $3.5 million per year, two years ago, and he certainly raised his value and stock since then.
The Raiders were left no choice but to move on, and hey, they could just do the same thing again, right?
Raiders sign Steelers LB Elandon Roberts
The Raiders ended up signing another former Steelers linebacker, but this time it's to a one-year deal for Elandon Roberts, who may sound familiar. A few years ago he played for the Miami Dolphins, which is where his path happens to cross over with Raiders defensive line coach Rob Leonard. With the Dolphins, he had a pick six on Derek Carr, who was still on the Raiders at the time.
The Raiders have signed him to a one-year deal with $3 million, which is $500 thousand less than the deal they gave Spillane a few years ago. But, here's the catch, for the price, Roberts may be better for the Raiders.
I get it, fans ask if he's so good, why did the Steelers let him walk when all it took was $3 million?
When the Steelers agreed to terms with Malik Harrison earlier in the day on Monday, it became clear that Elandon Roberts would not be coming back to Pittsburgh. Primarily a two-down thumper, Roberts is not built for passing downs or sub-package play, making him a bit of a liability in the Steelers' current LB corps. However, with the Raiders losing Robert “Bobby” Spillane to the New England Patriots, Roberts can step into the hammerhead role immediately as a field general and thumper in the Black and Silver. With his instincts and hit power as sharp as ever, a one-year deal at only $3m could be a steal for the Raiders. - A to Z Sports Pittsburgh's Rob Gregson
The Raiders made a great move by signing him, especially for the price. The Raiders' new general manager, John Spytek, is taking the conservative approach, but still replacing the pieces that need replacing in a good way. I'd say he's doing a good job so far, and Roberts only further confirms that.
