Tue Mar 11 12:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Raiders Lose Key Linebacker to Falcons in Free Agency
**Las Vegas, NV** – The Las Vegas Raiders have suffered another blow to their defense, losing starting linebacker Divine Deablo to the Atlanta Falcons. Deablo signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Falcons, including $8 million guaranteed in the first year, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The 27-year-old Deablo, a former Virginia Tech standout, started 42 of 54 games played over four seasons with the Raiders. He was a consistent presence in 2024, starting all 14 games he appeared in. Over his career, he amassed 288 total tackles, with 166 solo tackles. Despite an injury history that sidelined him for portions of several seasons, CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco ranked Deablo as the 57th best free agent, praising his coverage skills and speed.
Deablo’s departure follows the loss of linebacker Robert Spillane to the New England Patriots on Monday. The Raiders have now lost several key defensive players this offseason, including safety Tre’von Moehrig and cornerback Nate Hobbs. While the possibility of Deablo’s departure was anticipated, his signing represents a significant loss for a Raiders defense already facing a rebuilding phase. Despite his injury history, Deablo’s speed, awareness, and ability to compensate for defensive shortcomings made him a valuable asset.
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