2016 Team Needs: AFC West
By Kris Rogers
Oakland Raiders
Team Needs: CB, S, LB
Corner: DJ Hayden hasn’t lived up to his draft stock, being taken 13th overall three years ago. After being cut by the Redskins, David Amerson was claimed off of waivers and played admirably, but one good corner does not make a secondary. A rookie would likely have the opportunity to get significant playing time.
Three Options: Sean Smith (FA), Eli Apple, Vernon Hargraves III
Safety: The ageless wonder Charles Woodson is finally hanging them up at age 39. While no rookie is going to be able to fill his shoes in their first year, the Raiders have plenty of cap space and could attract a proven veteran to fill the gap.
Three Options: Eric Weddle (FA), Jayron Kearse, DeAndre Houston-Carson
LB: The Raiders linebacker corps isn’t terrible, but it still needs an upgrade. Khalil Mack was the first played to be named to the first-team AP All-Pro team at two different positions in the same year, but he can’t do it alone. Another linebacker could turn this very average defense into a force to be reckoned with.
Three Options: Vincent Rey (FA), Jaylon Smith, Scooby Wright III
Next: Kansas City Chiefs