The Raiders got their first look at defensive end David Irving in an actual practice Wednesday and coach Jon Gruden wasn't inclined to make any predictions about a future role on the 53-man roster.
A 6-foot-7, 290-pound edge player, Irving was signed Tuesday to the Raiders' practice squad just two days after being reinstated by the NFL for being in violation of the league's policy on substances of abuse.
Irving last played for the Dallas Cowboys in 2018, when he went on indefinite suspension after two games. Irving later said his suspension was for marijuana use and he was critical of the league's position in that regard.
Since Irving's suspension, the NFL reduced its frequency of marijuana testing pre-season only as well as increasing the nanograms necessary for a positive test.
The bottom line for the Raiders is Irving, 27, had 12 { sacks as a part-time player in 2015-18, and has familiarity with defensive line coach Rod Marinelli. It comes at a time where Irving is seeking redemption.
Gruden said he wasn't sure what the Raiders were getting Monday during a video conference.
"We're just excited to have an opportunity to help him rejuvenate his career," Gruden said. "We're going to help dust him off, and we're going to see where he is. I don't make any predictions. He's not been in football for some time. I'm looking forward to putting him in silver and black and seeing what happens. He has a resume, but nothing recent."
The Raiders defensive ends on the 53-man roster are Maxx Crosby, Clelin Ferrell, Arden Key and Carl Nassib, with Ferrell also getting work inside at tackle. Nassib played for just four plays against Kansas City before departing with a broken toe. In a minor surprise, Nassib was on the practice field Wednesday, but in a limited fashion.
Safety Jeff Heath, who played with Irving in Dallas, said he is a physically gifted player.
"He's a huge individual. You can't even really get a good feel for it until you see him in person," Heath said. "Not only is he really big, but he's a really good athlete. He's flexible, has long arms, makes a lot of big plays just on that natural ability alone."
Heath said it may take time for Irving to get re-acclimated to football but noted "he's still the same size, same athlete he was in Dallas. I'm really expecting him to help us out a lot."
Players on the practice squad can be signed by other teams, although there is a provision in 2020 where the Raiders can protect four players per week from being signed off their roster.
