Raiders Release WR Cody White, Activate TE Carter Runyon From IR

The Raiders released wide receiver Cody White on Wednesday and activated tight end Carter Runyon from injured reserve, according to The Athletic's Sam Warren.

It's a quick turn for White, who looked like one of the early surprises of the Raiders' season. He has eight catches for 112 yards and three touchdowns this year, all career highs, and every one of those scores came in a burst over the first several weeks. Since then his role has dried up: over the last three games he caught one pass for four yards. He also helped on special teams.

The corresponding move is the reason for the timing. Runyon had been on injured reserve with a foot injury and was ruled out of last week's game against the Jets. Getting him back gives Las Vegas another tight end, and the roster spot had to come from somewhere, so White became the odd man out.

White is a vested veteran, so he doesn't have to go through waivers and is free to sign anywhere right away. A practice squad return in Las Vegas isn't out of the question, since the Raiders know what he can do on special teams and could elevate him on game days.

Las Vegas is 4-4 after a 38-33 win over the Jets got it back to .500. The Raiders' offense has carried them, with Kirk Cousins throwing 19 touchdowns against five interceptions, while the defense ranks near the bottom of the league in points allowed. They visit the 6-1 49ers at Levi's Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 8.