2014 NFL Free Agency Preview: Top 5 Offensive Tackles
By J.R.
Dec 30, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders tackle Jared Veldheer (68) during the third quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
1. Jared Veldheer
Age: 26
2013-14 Salary: 882,000
Career Stats: 4 season-48 starts-0 Pro Bowls
Rating: 8.0
Jared Veldheer checks in at number 1 on our list, not because he is the most talented tackle out there but rather he is one of the two big free agents the Raiders had on their roster. Veldheer came off a rough season last year, mostly due to missing 12 games with a torn triceps, but in 2012 he ranked 12th in the NFL according to ProFootballFocus.com’s official rankings. Reggie McKenzie stated that the good players will stay, referring to their free agents and Veldheer is one of the Raiders only good free agents.
With recent reports coming out saying Veldheer is getting closer to walking, with Arizona being the most likely landing spot, you have to question how much Veldheer really wants to don the Silver and Black. However Reggie McKenzie might not view Veldheer as and elite tackle and if he is asking for too much McKenzie can let him walk and will have plenty of options, through either free agency or the draft.
Chances He Signs With Oakland: 50%