After all the deconstruction that took place in GM Reggie McKenzie’s first couple of years, the Oakland Raiders are close. They drafted very well in 2014 with OLB Khalil Mack, QB Derek Carr and OG Gabe Jackson. Then they came back with another big three in WR Amari Cooper, DE Mario Edwards Jr., and TE Clive Walford.
Then before they even get to the 2016 NFL Draft, the Raiders have already had an outstanding offseason. They added OG Kelechi Osemele LB Bruce Irvin and CB Sean Smith early in free agency. But the Raiders are not done yet as they are truly going for it this offseason.
As those that paid attention to the situation from the beginning knew would happen, OLB Aldon Smith agreed to a deal to go back to the Raiders when his suspension is up. Remember, McKenzie knew the trouble he was in and said he was “in it for the long haul” when he signed Smith last year.
Many had Irvin replacing Smith but Irvin is a versatile player that will move inside when Smith gets back. And now, the Raiders have their sites set on the safety position, one of the few team needs the Raiders still have. To meet it, the Raiders are looking at big-time free safety Reggie Nelson, bringing him in for a visit Monday.
Nelson will be 33 before next season starts but started every game for the Bengals the last two years. And he has been productive with 77 tackles and a tied-for-league lead eight interceptions last season. If the Raiders can sign him, we’ll see if Nelson can age the way former Raiders S Charles Woodson, the man he’ll be replacing, did.
But the move means the Raiders are ready to win and going for it!