Raiders Ink Nevada Star Jamal Carter to Shore Up LV Defense

LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Raiders bolstered their defense Monday with the signing of Nevada native Jamal Carter, a multi-year contract that returns the 6-foot-1, 215-pound linebacker to his home state roots. Carter, 32, emerged as a standout at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where his relentless play earned Rebel fans' cheers before a pro career that began as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos in 2017. The deal, initially reported by KTNV Channel 13 News, aims to fortify a Raiders defensive line seeking depth amid high expectations at Allegiant Stadium. Carter's NFL journey includes stints with the Broncos, Washington Football Team and Atlanta Falcons, amassing career earnings of $1,609,752 at an average per-year salary of $402,438. His initial Broncos pact was a three-year, $1.67 million contract with $20,000 guaranteed — the highest such amount the team offered any undrafted rookie that year — featuring a $10,000 signing bonus. Born April 12, 1994, in Nevada, Carter's physical profile and experience position him as a key addition for new defensive schemes under coordinator Patrick Graham, who prioritizes versatile linebackers amid injuries to stars like Maxx Crosby. Local ties run deep for Carter, whose UNLV tenure showcased Nevada-bred talent in the Mountain West Conference, drawing crowds to Sam Boyd Stadium. Raiders GM John Spytek, navigating a competitive AFC West, views the signing as a nod to Silver State loyalty while addressing cap realities — Carter's past hits peaked at $469,412 in 2019. As training camps near this summer, fans from Reno to Henderson anticipate Carter's impact on a defense ranked mid-pack last season.