The Las Vegas Raiders still need to address the linebacker position in free agency, having lost Robert Spillane to the New England Patriots and Divine Deablo to the Atlanta Falcons, and failing to sign Christian Elliss. They brought in Elandon Roberts and Devin White for short-term stability but not for the long haul. Since their depth is weak and lacks a long-term starter, the Raiders could select a linebacker in the upcoming draft.
Las Vegas Raiders hosting 1st-Team All-American linebacker
According to Tashan Reed, the Raiders are hosting former UCLA Bruins elite linebacker Carson Schwesinger for a Top-30 visit on Wednesday. Schwesinger is a talented prospect because he can rush the passer, defend against the run, and excel in coverage. He is one of the top linebackers, and many analysts have mocked him as a top-50 pick.
The #Raiders are hosting UCLA LB Carson Schwesinger on a top-30 visit today, per source. The 6-2, 242-pounder had a breakout year in ’24 with 136 tackles, 9 TFL and 2 INTs. He was excellent in coverage. He played for OC Chip Kelly from ’21-23. Could fill a significant need at LB.
— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) April 9, 2025
He broke out in 2024
After serving as a reserve linebacker in his first three seasons, Carson Schwesinger took over as a full-time starter in 2024. Schwesinger made the most of the opportunity and was named First Team All-American and First Team All-Big Ten. He recorded 136 tackles, nine TFLs, four sacks, two interceptions, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble in 12 games. He also posted 18 pressures, 50 stops, and allowed 311 passing yards per PFF.
Here’s Lance Zierlein‘s scouting report on Carson Schwesinger
“Schwesinger went from walk-on to All-American at UCLA. He’s a human bloodhound, pairing elite instincts with an understanding of blocking schemes and run tracks. The pursuit speed is average but his play recognition helps him play fast.
“He’s undersized and takes the worst of it when blockers get on top of him, but he’s a good athlete in coverage. He’s also a sound technician as an open-field tackler and bona fide standout on special teams. Schwesinger was a starter for only one season, but his instincts, athleticism and competitiveness help him project as a future starter either inside or as a 4-3 Will linebacker.”
