The Raiders announced that they have waived linebacker Cory James with a failed physical designation. The Raiders also cut defensive end Armonty Bryant with a non-football illness designation.
Oakland drafted James in the sixth round two years ago and deployed him as a starter frequently over the past two years. The former Colorado State linebacker started 14 games during his first two seasons and could be an intriguing offseason waiver addition.
Although James’ play didn’t stop the Raiders from continuing to look for additional linebacker starters, he saw action on 455 snaps last season. He finished last season on IR, though, with a knee injury. The nature of this exit could well stall an immediate path to another team.
Entering what would be a sixth NFL season, Bryant has struggled to stay on the field because of suspensions. The NFL suspended the edge defender three times since 2016, and the Lions parted ways with him after his most recent ban ended. Bryant signed with the Raiders in April.
In addition to Smith (listed below), the Cowboysannounced that they’ve also agreed to terms with sixth-round pick Rico Gathers. The 6’6″, 273-pound former Baylor basketball player did not play football at the collegiate level, but is expected to pursue an NFL career at tight end. Dallas has now locked up six of its nine 2016 draft picks.
Earlier updates:
The Steelers have agreed to terms with second-round pick Sean Davis on a four-year deal, according to a source who spoke with Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com. The Steelers have since confirmed the deal. Davis has now become the fourth Steelers draft pick to sign his rookie pact.
The Cowboys have signed second-round linebacker Jaylon Smith to a four-year deal, ESPN.com’s Todd Archer writes. It remains to be seen when Smith will take the field, however. The prevailing belief is that he will need a redshirt year because of the serious knee injury he suffered in January. If Smith spends the season on the NFI list, he’ll be a restricted free agent in 2020 instead of an unrestricted free agent, Joel Corry of CBSSports.com notes (via Twitter).
The Raidersannounced the signing of sixth-round linebacker Cory James. James, selected No. 194 overall, played in 51 games with 46 starts over four seasons at Colorado State, totaling 230 tackles (112 solo), 24 sacks, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and three passes defensed.