Former rugby player stands at 6-foot-6 and 348 pounds
Even after a long weekend with the 2025 NFL Draft, Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek wasn’t done adding players to the roster. On Wednesday, the Raiders announced the signing of defensive lineman Laki Tasi through the International Player Pathway Program.
#Raiders roster moves:
– Signed free agent DL Laki Tasi as part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program
– Waived DE David Agoha
— Raiders PR (@RAIDERS_PR) April 30, 2025
Tasi was born in Samoa but grew up in Brisbane, Australia, where he became a standout rugby player. He began playing football in 2024 via the NFL Academy in Gold Coast, Queensland, and was chosen to be included in the IPP program. It was there that he first began playing defensive line.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and 348 pounds, Tasi certainly has the size to make it in the NFL, and the Raiders could use a nose tackle right now. Granted, it will likely take a few years for the Samoan Australian to be ready for action as he could use some seasoning. However, based on the videos below (h/t Brandyn Pokrass), he’s certainly a good athlete for his size who could contribute down the line.
DL drills are up next from Laki Tasi, Paschal Ekeji Jr., and Dante Barnett(yes, a FB/DL combo!). I was initially impressed by Barnett and Paschal. Barnett moved with precise footwork and change of direction, while Paschal showed his speed that popped at the USF Pro Day. On the… pic.twitter.com/q78PjSa6Tm
— Brandyn Pokrass (@BPok24) April 2, 2025
In a corresponding move, the Raiders waived defensive end David Agoha, who was also part of the IPP program. Agoha had been with the club since 2023 but only played during the preseason and never made the 53-man roster.
