Nick Kwiatkoski

According to Tom Pelissero of NFL.com, the Raiders released veteran linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski on Wednesday afternoon.

Fantasy Impact

After starting 12 games in 2020, Kwiatkoski made just eight appearances and zero starts this past season. Along the way, he tallied 21 tackles, one forced fumble, and zero quarterback hits. He had a $8.25 million cap hit this year, but Vegas can recoup $7 million if it designates him as a post-June 1 release. Kwiatkoski should have no trouble finding a suitor that sees him as a depth piece on defense, but his days of being a key starter are over.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Raiders and LB Nick Kwiatkoski agree to a restructured contract that will save the team $2.7 million against the cap.

Fantasy Impact

Another move for the Raiders. After releasing four veteran starters from last season, the Raiders agreed to rework the contract of Kwiatkoski, the move will help save the team a veteran starter and $2.7 million against the cap. The LB recorded 81 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and one interception in 12 games started last season.

Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski has been ruled out for Monday Night Football against the New Orleans Saints.

Fantasy Impact

This was expected, but it is still a big loss for the Raiders linebacker corps. Raekwon McMillan, recently acquired from the Miami Dolphins, is expected to see the most snaps as his replacement.

Nick Kwiatkoski tweeted a photo of the new Las Vegas stadium and Ian Rapoport confirmed that he will be playing for the Raiders next season.

Fantasy Impact

Kwiatkoski has been a Chicago fan-favorite for years and it was assumed that they wouldn't have the assets to retain him this season. Vontaze Burfict only played four games last season before suffering a suspension through the end of the year and his future with the team is up in the air. He has vowed to come back and change the way he plays, but the Raiders' investment in Kwiatkoski shows that they may be ready to move on. If so, Kwiatkoski would become a run-stuffing starting middle linebacker and would have the ability to launch himself into fantasy relevance. Keep an eye on the Raiders' camp to see how this depth chart will shake out. Kwiatkoski's contract is 3 years/$21M with $13.5M guaranteed.

Nick Kwiatkoski ended Sunday’s 21-19 win over the Vikings with eight tackles (six solo).

Fantasy Impact

If Kwiatkoski is given a starting gig next season he is worth rostering in dynasty leagues. He finished the regular season with 68 tackles, three sacks, one forced fumble, and an interception.