As the Las Vegas Raiders progress through training camp and the preseason, they’ve made a notable move to address depth concerns in their secondary. Terrell Edmunds, a veteran safety with starting experience, has officially signed with the team after a successful recent workout, sources confirmed.
Edmunds’ addition comes in the wake of tough injury news for the Raiders’ defensive backfield. Lonnie Johnson Jr., a key contributor in the secondary, suffered a broken fibula, leaving the team short-handed for an extended period. While Johnson is expected to return at some point during the regular season, the Raiders anticipated the need for reinforcements during his absence, prompting the visit and subsequent signing of Edmunds.
Raiders Sign Veteran Safety Terrell Edmunds
The 28-year-old Edmunds, originally a first-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2018, brings a wealth of experience. From 2018 to 2022, he served as a full-time starter in Pittsburgh, but in recent years, his defensive snaps have diminished. He spent time on the practice squad and in backup roles with several teams—including the Eagles, Titans, Jaguars, and a brief return to Pittsburgh last season. Now with the Raiders, he’ll look to regain a more significant role, competing for playing time during the remainder of training camp and preseason action.
Tashan Reed of The Athletic highlighted Edmunds’ upcoming competition within the Raiders’ secondary, noting, “He’ll join a competition with Chris Smith, Thomas Harper and others to replace Lonnie Johnson.” The team lost safeties Tre’von Moehrig and Marcus Epps in free agency but bolstered the position by signing Jeremy Chinn as a new starter and retaining Isaiah Pola-Mao, who remains a first-team contributor. Edmunds will vie for snaps alongside those players, as well as emerging talents like Thomas Harper and Chris Smith.
In related roster moves, Las Vegas waived wide receiver Seth Williams with an injury designation. The 25-year-old is expected to revert to injured reserve and likely reach an injury settlement in the near future.
Beyond the defensive backfield, the Raiders have been busy during the offseason with significant personnel changes. Pete Carroll was hired as the team’s head coach, replacing Antonio Pierce, and veteran quarterback Geno Smith was brought in to stabilize the position after a turbulent previous season. There is optimism surrounding the progression of younger players, including tight end Brock Bowers, as well as the leadership presence of defensive stalwart Maxx Crosby. Should Smith replicate his Seattle success, the Raiders could make a strong push back into playoff contention.
The preseason continues this weekend with the Raiders hosting the San Francisco 49ers, followed by the regular-season opener on the road against the New England Patriots on September 7 at 1:00 PM ET.