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New addition on Raiders defense already gaining trust

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Derek Hegna | Last updated Aug 12, 2025 10:49 AM ET

Last week, the Las Vegas Raiders swapped defensive players with the Philadelphia Eagles, trading cornerback Jakorian Bennett in exchange for defensive tackle Thomas Booker IV.

On Thursday, Booker made his Raiders debut against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite only playing 14 snaps, the fourth-year defensive tackle impressed in limited action. With the Raiders in need of depth on the defensive line, Booker’s efforts ensure he will work himself into the rotation.

It appears that Booker’s performance against the Seahawks has made his ascent up the depth chart quicker than anticipated.

Booker has earned first-team reps on defense.

With first-team defensive tackle Adam Butler sidelined, Booker took his place on the starting defense during Saturday’s practices.

#Raiders just wrapped up padless practice indoors:

– Thomas Booker IV received first team reps while DT Adam Butler did not practice.

– Meredith remains the starting center.

– Pratt had a nice PBU on a deep pass to Raheem Mostert on 7-on-7.

– AOC was picked off by Trey…

— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) August 9, 2025

Even with Butler currently out, Booker getting these reps is a significant development.

Butler and Jonah Laulu are currently projected as the starting defensive tackles, but Laulu struggled against the Seahawks with a 28.7 Pro Football Focus grade. Booker suddenly has momentum on his side, and earning first-team reps puts him in a good position on the depth chart. It is reasonable to assume that Booker is currently the first reserve defensive tackle to come off the bench, and continuing to string together strong performances could turn this into a full-blown position battle.

Booker already making waves is a good sign for the Raiders, who have needed reinforcements since releasing Christian Wilkins.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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