The Oakland Raiders are wasting no time this off-season. League sources are reporting that they cut cornerback David Amerson to save $6 million in cap space.
Field Yates broke the story:
The Raiders have cut veteran CB David Amerson, per league source.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 5, 2018
Raiders Release Cornerback David Amerson to Save Cap Space
This is a cost-saving move that leaves no dead money for the Silver and Black. The Raiders need all the cash they can get after giving quarterback Derek Carr and guard Gabe Jackson hefty contracts last off-season. They still need to lock up fellow draft mate Khalil Mack up, who will also demand a massive contract.
Amerson was picked up off of waivers from the Washington Redskins in 2015. He quickly rose up the depth chart to become their number one corner by the end of that season, earning him a 4-year, $34 million extension. Since then, however, his play has dropped off significantly.
He recorded four interceptions, and defended 26 passes in his 14 games with the Raiders in 2015. Since then he has a total of two interceptions and 20 passes defensed. He also missed 10 games in 2017 with a foot injury.
With John Gruden being signed to a 10-year contract as head coach of the Raiders, there are expected to be a lot of cuts coming soon. Fellow corner Sean Smith is expected to be released as well.
Oakland has many options at defensive back next season. They drafted Gareon Conley and Obi Melifonwu with their first and second round picks last season. Conley only appeared in two games during the season. There were conflicting reports on the severity of his injury, but he finally opted for shin surgery in November. Melifonwu started the season on injured reserve. He returned in week 11 but went back to injured reserve to have hip surgery after only appearing in four games.
Besides that, there should be many free agent options, including Trumaine Johnson, Malcolm Butler, and Kyle Fuller. The Raiders will likely pursue at least one of these corners in free agency.
