Raiders training camp preview: New linebackers bring experience to position

The Las Vegas Raiders entered training camp with a clear intent to bolster the linebacker unit, adding two former Georgia teammates in Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean. Both players agreed to contracts that immediately upgrade the group, according to the Vegas Nation podcast. The Review-Journal will number down to the opening league by looking at a different position group each day, continuing with the linebackers today. **Roster** Walker, Dean, Tommy Eichenberg, Cody Lindenberg, Brennan Jackson, Segun Olubi, Xavian Sorey Jr., Cameron McGrone, Chris Thomas **Outlook** Walker and Dean are expected to occupy the field for a substantial portion of snaps. They represent the top two names on the depth chart and will be heavily relied upon in the new scheme being installed by first‑time coordinator Rob Leonard. Leonard’s design emphasizes interchangeable pieces, and Walker and Dean form a core element of that flexibility. Each has experience playing the “Mike” linebacker role, is capable of calling defenses, and can also function as effective walk rushers. The plan calls for Dean to line up in the middle and wear the green dot as the play‑caller to start the season, allowing Walker to exploit his athleticism more fully. Walker performed a similar function with the Packers, so he can step in seamlessly should Dean be unavailable at any point. Their existing relationship should foster chemistry and help establish the communication code Leonard envisions for his defensive identity. Inside linebacker duties will fall primarily to Walker and Dean, especially when the Raiders deploy their new 3‑4 base look. Outside linebacker responsibilities will largely be handled by the edge defenders featured in the defensive line preview, giving Leonard latitude to be creative with coverage schemes and blitz packages. When the staff seeks a smaller, faster package, other options emerge. Brennan Jackson spent last season within the Raiders’ system; although his defensive snaps were limited, his skill set may find better use in this arrangement. Segun Olubi, who arrived from the Colts where he was a special teams dynamo, will retain that primary role but will also aim to earn additional defensive snaps during camp. Tommy Eichenberg and Cody Lindenberg, who similarly logged most of their 2023 action on special teams, could receive the first opportunities behind Dean and Walker in the middle. Lindenberg, in fact