Josh McDaniels Explains Why The Raiders Released Johnathan Abram
Nov 10, 2022, 8:00 AM
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 24: Johnathan Abram #24 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates a recovered fumble during the first half in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Allegiant Stadium on October 24, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Sam Morris/Getty Images)
(Photo by Sam Morris/Getty Images)
Johnathan Abram was surprisingly released by the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this week.
He wasn’t without a home for long though. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Green Bay Packers claimed Johnathan Abram off waivers.
On Wednesday, Raiders coach Josh McDaniels explained to the media what went into the decision to release the former first-round pick, and other recent decisions surrounding defense personnel.
“His role was changing a little bit as we were going through the season,” McDaniels said. “Tre’von [Moehrig] was playing more and we brought Isaiah [Pola-Mao] now up to the roster as another young player. Those aren’t easy decisions. John’s done a lot for this organization obviously and wish him well. But just thought that this was the right time.”
The team also recently signed cornerback Sidney Jones IV and safety Isaiah Pola-Mao. McDaniels explained the team has only had four cornerbacks on the roster, then they’ll elevate someone from the practice squad on game day.
“Sidney [Jones IV] was out there,” McDaniels said. “He’s played a lot of football and just felt like it was an opportunity for us to potentially add some good depth. A player that has some experience, some wisdom, knows how to play. At this time of the year, you don’t get many opportunities to do that. So, fortunate we were able to get that done and we’re excited to see how this goes going forward with him.”
