Las Vegas, NV – May 14, 2025
In a league where roster moves can be sudden and unforgiving, linebacker Amari Burney has chosen resilience over resentment. Just days after being waived by the Las Vegas Raiders, Burney has publicly reaffirmed his desire to continue his journey with the franchise that took a chance on him.
In a heartfelt statement released Tuesday evening, Burney addressed his waiver and explained why — despite the emotional setback — he’s far from finished in Silver and Black.
“I’m not done with this team,” Burney wrote. “The Raiders believed in me from the start, and I believe in what’s being built here. I’ve still got work to do — and I’m ready to earn my spot back.”
A Promising Talent Facing the Business Side of the NFL
Burney, a former Florida Gators standout, was signed by the Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2023. His athleticism and football IQ quickly made an impression during training camp and preseason. Although he began on the practice squad, Burney appeared in several regular-season games in 2024, showing flashes of promise on special teams and in rotational linebacker duties.
However, with new draft picks and offseason acquisitions flooding the Raiders’ linebacker room, Burney found himself on the outside looking in — a casualty of the numbers game every NFL player fears. The waiver came as a surprise to many, given his work ethic and steady development.
Heartbreak, But Not Defeat
Burney admitted that the decision hit hard. In his statement, he described the waiver as “one of the toughest moments” of his career.
“You give everything — the early mornings, the extra film, the reps after practice — and still, sometimes it’s not enough. It hurts. But that doesn’t mean I stop.”
According to sources close to the player, Burney has remained in Las Vegas, continuing to train and stay game-ready in case the team — or another franchise — gives him another opportunity. The Raiders have not ruled out the possibility of bringing him back, especially if injuries or roster shifts occur later this offseason.
Loyalty That Stands Out
Burney’s public commitment to the Raiders despite being waived speaks volumes about his character and love for the game. While many players in his position would quickly pivot to finding new opportunities, Burney remains focused on what he started.
“It’s not just about playing in the NFL — it’s about where you feel you belong,” he wrote. “I still feel like I belong here, with the Raiders. I’ve got unfinished business in that jersey.”
What’s Next?
NFL rules allow waived players to be claimed by other teams or re-signed to the practice squad if they clear waivers. As of now, Burney has not been picked up by another team, keeping the door open for a possible return to Las Vegas.
Coaches and teammates have also expressed support privately, noting his leadership qualities and relentless effort. For a young team looking to build a culture of grit and accountability, Burney may yet prove to be a valuable piece of the puzzle.
As the offseason progresses and training camp approaches, Burney’s story will be one to watch — a reminder that in the NFL, heart and hunger can sometimes be more powerful than any draft status.