The Las Vegas Raiders announced that they have signed defensive linemen Darius Philon and Matt Dickerson.
The Raiders have emphasized shoring up their front on defense so far this offseason. They made a splash by agreeing to terms on a two-year deal with Yannick Ngakoue and followed it up with the signing of Johnathan Hankins and Solomon Thomas.
Las Vegas also made efforts to bring back Kendall Vickers on an exclusive rights free agent tender. Since they also re-signed David Irving, it would appear that they are all set up front for now.
Philon started his career as a sixth-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. He spent four seasons with the Chargers before signing with the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the 2019 campaign.
Unfortunately, his stint in Arizona ended before it officially began after being released following his arrest for an assault with a deadly weapon. It appears he will now be looking to get his career back on track by potentially providing some quality depth in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, Dickerson came into the league as an undrafted free agent in 2018 with the Tennessee Titans. Dickeson was finally able to see some consistent action during the 2020 campaign when he finished with 10 tackles and one quarterback pressure in 10 games.
Philon already has a connection in new Raiders defensive coordinator Gus Bradley. He played under Bradley during their stint with the Chargers and enjoyed his best season in 2018 Philon when he registered 33 tackles, four sacks and one forced fumble while starting in 13 games.
The sense of familiarity should certainly help pay some dividends for Philon as he finds his footing coming off a two-year hiatus from the league. Of course, he and Dickerson will have plenty of competition from teammates looking to take advantage of the same opportunity.
