Raiders activate DT Justin Ellis from injured reserve, waive G Denver Kirkland

As hoped, the Raiders get defensive tackle Justin Ellis back this week. The big nose tackle was activated from injured reserve, where he had been since suffering a foot injury in the season opener.

The 6-foot-2, 335-pound defensive tackle received a new longterm deal this offseason, making it clear he was one of the few holdovers who was in Jon Gruden’s plans. The former fourth round pick out of Louisiana Techhas has appeared in 60 games with 41 starts.

He put put up a career-high 44 tackles last season for the Raiders to earn his new deal. Over his career, he has totaled 134 tackles (82 solo), 0.5 sacks and three passes defended.

With Maurice Hurst questionable for the game, Ellis could be valuable in his return.

In a corresponding move, the Raiders have waived G/T Denver Kirkland. Kirkland was originally signed by the club as an undrafted free agent and has bounced back and forth from the active roster to the practice squad, most recently having been called up back in October and appearing in one game.