**Veteran RB and Young WR at Risk of Being Cut by Raiders**
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to make significant roster changes once training camp begins, under the new management of general manager Tom Telesco, who is not tied to existing players. This could lead to unexpected cuts.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report identified players who must excel in camp to avoid being cut, with running back Ameer Abdullah topping the list.
“Running back Ameer Abdullah has been on the roster for each of the past two seasons,” Knox wrote in a July 15 column. “During that span, he has provided valuable backfield depth and held a role on special teams. While the 31-year-old has provided just 451 scrimmage yards to the offense, he’s also played 481 special-teams snaps. … If Abdullah is set to contribute only on special teams, he’ll have a tough time making the final 53. Releasing him would trigger a dead-cap hit of only $850,000 while saving $1 million in 2024 cap space.”
Abdullah’s challenge is the crowded running back room. Zamir White is expected to start, with Alexander Mattison as his backup. Abdullah will compete with rookie Dylan Laube for a spot. The team might carry four running backs, but if they opt for three, Laube’s potential might secure his place. Additionally, re-signing Abdullah to the practice squad would be easier than Laube.
**DJ Turner Also a Cut Candidate**
The Raiders have three wide receiver locks: Davante Adams, Jakobi Meyers, and Tre Tucker. The remaining spots will see competition among young players and veterans.
DJ Turner, a 27-year-old wide receiver, has been intermittently on the Raiders’ roster since 2021 and is also at risk of being cut, according to Knox.
“With [Brock] Bowers, Michael Mayer and Harrison Bryant forming an impressive group of receiving tight ends, the Raiders may not keep a surplus of wideouts among the final 53,” Knox wrote. “Turner’s best chance of sticking may come by showing that he can be a factor under the league’s revised kickoff rules. The Raiders lost 2023 primary returner DeAndre Carter in free agency, so Turner might get a chance to compete as a return option. If he can’t, the Raiders can save just under $1 million by releasing him.”
**Other Players to Watch**
Unexpected cuts happen every year. Wide receiver Michael Gallup could be at risk despite his veteran status, as the Raiders might prefer younger options. Cornerback Cornell Armstrong, mostly on the practice squad last season, and offensive lineman Andrus Peat, a former Pro Bowler who has struggled recently, could also be cut if they don’t perform well in training camp.
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