Linebacker Divine Deablo returns to Raiders' Defense

Originally posted on FanNation Raider Maven
By Ezekiel Trezevant IV | Last updated 11/12/23

Coming into the season, linebacker was the position group with the most questions for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Through nine games, the group has removed all doubt about their abilities, as Las Vegas' linebackers have been a significant part of the turnaround the Raiders' defense has seen this season.

Linebackers Divine Deablo and Luke Masterson returned to practice for the Silver and Black this week. Although the defense has played well, they have certainly missed Deablo's speed and ability to eliminate quick passes and screens. Las Vegas has also missed the depth Masterson brings to the defense.

"It's good, they both had good weeks of practice and are ready to go," Interim Coach Antonio Pierce said. "It's good to have a full group there. There has been kind of a Rolodex in that room last two weeks with injuries.

"But the one thing about our team is what I've seen in our staff is they're willing to get out there. They're willing to fight through injuries and pains and nicks."

Deablo missed part of the game against the Chicago Bears and the following two games. Even after missing that time, Deablo is third in tackles this season for the Raiders, with 52 total tackles.

Pierce, a Super Bowl-winning linebacker as a player for the New York Giants, knows that every team in the National Football League is dealing with injuries at this time of the season.

Still, Pierce is happy to have the Raiders' best players back on the field as they prepare to play the New York Jets on Sunday Night Football.

"You'll never be 10 percent until we get back in January in the offseason," Pierce said. "So, for our guys just to get them out there and to have that unit be a glue again, it's really good for our defense."

Las Vegas' defense has exceeded expectations this season, battling adversity in more ways than one.

Deablo and Masterson bring many positive attributes to the Raiders, making their defense formidable. Their respective returns to the lineup should make things easier for the Raiders as they face a crucial three-game stretch before their bye week.

The Silver and Black will remain at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to take on the New York Jets on Sunday, Nov. 12, at 8:20 p.m. EST/5:20 p.m. PST.

This article first appeared on FanNation Raider Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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