The Las Vegas Raiders have lost another key piece in their secondary, as safety Marcus Epps is set to join the New England Patriots. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Epps has signed a one-year deal worth up to $4.4 million. Despite suffering a torn ACL last season, he is expected to be fully cleared ahead of training camp.
Epps originally joined the Raiders in 2023, appearing in 20 games and starting each one. However, his season was cut short in Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers when he sustained the ACL injury. His absence created an opportunity for Isaiah Pola-Mao, who stepped up and proved to be a reliable option for the Raiders’ defense.
Pola-Mao, an undrafted player from USC now entering his third year, made an impact in his increased role. Over his time with the Raiders, he has recorded 44 total tackles, including three for a loss, along with three quarterback hits, an interception, two sacks, and a pass defended. His ability to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield has been a major asset, logging significant snaps at free safety, in the box, and near the line of scrimmage. With Tre’von Moehrig no longer on the roster, Pola-Mao is now a strong candidate to start at safety in 2025.
The Raiders’ secondary has taken a hit beyond just Epps’ departure. They have also lost Moehrig and cornerback Nate Hobbs, both of whom were starters. In response, Las Vegas has added versatile safety Jeremy Chinn from the Washington Commanders, who is expected to make an immediate impact.
With these changes, the Raiders will have to rework their defensive backfield heading into the 2025 season.