Raiders activate Holland for game against Broncos, release Rankin

Raiders activate Holland, release Rankin

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Oakland Raiders activated defensive back Jonathan Holland from the practice squad and waived running back Louis Rankin.

Holland had spent his first two seasons in Oakland as a wide receiver before switching to defense at the end of training camp. He gives Oakland an extra defensive back for Sunday’s against Denver and another kick returner.

Rankin was the fourth running back on the roster and was the team’s kick returner the first two weeks. With Justin Fargas healthy and a need at defensive back with Hiram Eugene inactive with a calf injury, there was no room for Rankin. He could be brought to the practice squad if he clears waivers.

Other players inactive for Oakland were offensive linemen Robert Gallery and Paul McQuistan, receivers Chaz Schilens, Javon Walker and Nick Miller and tight end Brandon Myers. Charlie Frye was the third quarterback.

The inactive players for the Broncos were defensive lineman Jarvis Moss, receivers Brandon Lloyd and Kenny McKinley, offensive linemen Seth Olsen and Brandon Gorin, defensive lineman Chris Baker and linebacker-fullback Spencer Larsen. Tom Brandstater was the third quarterback.