Free Agency Frenzy
In our last iteration of our Las Vegas Raiders rebuild, we looked at some coaching candidates to take over from Antonio Pierce.
Having settled on Buffalo Bills offensive co-ordinator Joe Brady, it is time to decide who is going to join him in the desert.
So, bidding wars or pragmatism? With almost $112 million in expected cap space and potentially the number one overall draft pick, the Raiders have the means to turn the franchise around quickly.
With limited star-power expected to be free agents this year and the draft set to be a more ‘nuts and bolts’ type, it is important to be savvy.
Quarterback
Without ruining what is to come in part three, I can say that the Las Vegas Raiders will not be in the market for a starting quarterback.
That rules out Sam Darnold, who people have suggested him an as an option. I think he remains a Minnesota Viking on the franchise tag.
I also considered Justin Fields for his athleticism but this would be too much of an off-season storyline with Fields probably wanting to be a starter.
However, the back-up has a key role in the future of this organisation in supporting the growth of our future starter.
Enter Andy Dalton or Joe Flacco. Both are consummate professionals who have shown they can nurture young quarterbacks. They can also provide relief for spot starts.
Weapons, weapons, weapons
With an offensive-minded head coach in place, in a division with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Bo Nix, the Raiders need to be able to keep pace.
Brock Bowers, Jakobi Meyers, a break-out Sincere McCormack… there are pieces here but both quality and depth is still needed.
The first option is one of the more obvious selections in free agency. Tee Higgins.
Joe Burrow has thrown his support behind Higgins staying in Cincinnati, the finances that would be required make that unlikely.
Higgins has shown tremendous ability in drawing coverage from Ja’Marr Chase in order to allow him to thrive, or capitalising when defenses roll coverage to Chase.
Turning 26 and at 6”4′, Higgins is very physical and an effective chain-mover who can command attention.
He is the clear number one choice to after in free agency. Giving whoever is at quarterback three big time targets.
Any other deals?
There will be one-year deals and bargains to be had to fill out the roster.
If Vegas can walk away with an experienced back-up quarterback and a big-time weapon it will be successful building blocks.
Throw in a running mate for McCormack and some offensive line depth then the Raiders will be in a healthy position.
That will allow Las Vegas to go best player available in the draft as opposed to drafting for need.
