The Las Vegas Raiders have informed defensive lineman Jerry Tillery that he will be released at the start of the new league year on Wednesday….
The Las Vegas Raiders have informed defensive lineman Jerry Tillery that he will be released at the start of the new league year on Wednesday, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Tillery, at 27 years old, could be a potential target for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are looking to strengthen their defensive line.
Originally selected by the Chargers with the No. 28 overall pick in 2019 from Notre Dame, Tillery didn’t live up to expectations in Los Angeles and was waived on November 10, 2022. The Raiders claimed him off waivers soon after.
Tillery’s most notable season was in 2021, where he tallied 51 total tackles (24 solos), 4.5 sacks, six tackles for loss, and 14 quarterback hits. He also had a respectable year in 2020 with three sacks and 14 quarterback hits. In his 2023 season with the Raiders, Tillery recorded 31 total tackles (11 solos), two sacks, two tackles for loss, six quarterback hits, and one fumble recovery.
With Cam Heyward approaching 35 and in the final year of his contract, and Larry Ogunjobi having a disappointing 2023 season, the Steelers are in need of defensive line reinforcements. DeMarvin Leal, a healthy scratch multiple times last season, may not be a suitable fit. Keeanu Benton had an impressive 2023 season, but Armon Watts and Montravius Adams are free agents. Consequently, the Steelers must address their defensive line needs, whether through free agency or the draft. Despite this, the team does have a rising star in nose tackle Keeanu Benton.
