The Oakland Raiders announced on Thursday that they have signed defensive tackle Anthony Rush, and undrafted free agent out of UAB. The team did not have to waive anyone as a corresponding move since they just cut two players in Ronald Ollie and Erik Swoope, so the 90-man roster is now back to being full again.
Adding to the defensive line has obviously been a focus for the Raiders this offseason after finishing dead last in the NFL in sacks a year ago. They used the No. 4 overall pick on Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell, and also brought in former Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Ethan Westbrooks this past week, among other moves.
Rush spent two seasons at UAB and in 25 total games, he had 77 tackles (43 solo), 20 tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception returned for a touchdown, one pass defensed and two forced fumbles. His senior season was his best, posting career-highs in total tackles (43), tackles for loss (11), sacks (two) and forced fumbles (two).
As an undrafted free agent, it will be tough for Rush to crack the Raiders’ roster, but he will likely get opportunities to show what he can do during Training Camp and the preseason. Even if he does not make the team, he would be a candidate for the practice squad.
The Raiders open up the preseason on Saturday, Aug. 10 against the Rams, so he will have a little over a week to get in game shape if he wants to play in that game.
