The Las Vegas Raiders have made their share of questionable first-round selections, but one of the most scrutinized was their 2020 pick of cornerback Damon Arnette at No. 19 overall. Widely projected as a second- or third-round talent, Arnette was surprisingly elevated by then-GM Mike Mayock. The gamble didn’t pay off.
Arnette’s time with the Raiders was short-lived. Off-the-field issues, including legal troubles and a social media video in which he made death threats, led to his release during his second season. Subsequent stints with the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins went nowhere, and Arnette never saw game action with either team.
Since early 2022, Arnette has been out of the NFL but he’s now attempting a comeback. He recently signed with the Houston Roughnecks of the UFL, using the opportunity to showcase his skills and reignite his career.
According to KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson, multiple NFL teams have reached out to the Roughnecks to inquire about Arnette. While he hopes for a second shot in the league, Arnette is focused on staying grounded and appreciating the game again.
“Just being back on the field in any capacity is a blessing,” Arnette said. “After everything I’ve been through, this opportunity means everything. I told Coach CJ I didn’t want anything fancy just a helmet and a Gatorade squirt bottle. It’s the little things I missed the most.”
Arnette emphasized that he’s living in the moment and focused solely on football. “Right now, it’s about this team, this game, and the next one. I want to win it all for Coach CJ. I feel like I belong here like I’m part of a family again and that’s what matters most.”
