Las Vegas Raiders release defensive tackle Jonah Laulu

The Las Vegas Raiders have released defensive tackle Jonah Laulu. The 26-year-old former Oklahoma player saw his playing time decrease significantly this season, dropping from 67.9 percent of defensive snaps last year to 32 percent recently.

Following Laulu's departure, the Raiders' defensive tackle rotation will rely on several players. Tonka Hemingway has been a leading snap getter when healthy, while veteran Adam Butler is averaging 51 percent of snaps. Foley Fatukasi has also become a solid contributor, playing 44 percent of snaps. Other players in the rotation or practice squad include Thomas Booker, J. J. Pegues, and Tim Keenan.

Speculation has arisen that the move could signal the team is preparing to acquire a defensive lineman via trade, with some analysts suggesting interest in Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner.