Raiders win waiver sweepstakes for cornerback Darrell Luter Jr.

The Las Vegas Raiders claimed cornerback Darrell Luter Jr. off waivers on Monday, using the league's top priority to beat out four other teams. Luter played all 17 games for the 49ers last season and brings experience to a young defensive backfield. Raiders assistant GM Brian Stark cited his regular-season snaps and special teams ability as key reasons for the claim.
Luter entered the league as a fifth-round pick in 2023 and is now in the final year of his rookie contract, making him a low-cost addition with starting experience. His 17-game regular-season appearance last year, including three starts, gives the Raiders a proven depth piece behind Eric Stokes in a cornerback room otherwise filled with second-year and rookie players.
The Raiders' front office deliberately limited itself to this single waiver claim despite holding the top priority. General Manager John Spytek emphasized faith in the players already in the building, reflecting a patient approach to rebuilding a roster that finished 3-14 last season. The team also awaits word on running back Ashton Jeanty's ankle injury, which Spytek suggested may heal faster than expected.
The claim signals how rebuilding franchises leverage waiver priority to add experienced depth without sacrificing draft capital