Underwood is under contract but is a long shot to make the roster. (Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE)

It is hardly the type of roster move that merits much more than a sentence. Then again, whenever a player with a somewhat checkered past inks a deal with the Oakland Raiders then the story, no matter how insignificant, begins to grow legs like a centipede…hopefully not the human variety though.

Yesterday Reggie McKenzie made a move reminiscent of Al Davis by bringing in former Packers cornerback Brandon Underwood.

The only reason this otherwise meaningless bit of news is being discussed is because Underwood was arrested after a domestic dispute last year. Otherwise there really isn’t too much to talk about.

Underwood is an Ohio native that began his career as a Buckeye before transferring to Cincinnati. McKenzie was likely involved in evaluating his talent as the Packers selected Underwood in the 6^th round of the ’09 draft. After two years in the league with no career starts Underwood was out of the NFL last year.

Perhaps seeing some potential in Underwood, McKenzie is giving him an opportunity to resurrect his paying career, a very Davis-esque move. In all likelihood Underwood will only be around for offseason workouts and perhaps through camp as well. Safe to say these early offseason signings are usually just meant to ensure there are enough capable bodies around for the coaching staff.

While the Raiders have a history of giving players with questionable character a shot at redemption they are by no means leading that charge any longer. The Cincinnati Bengals and even those role model New England Patriots have since taken the lead in that department. Safe to say you won’t see Albert Haynesworth sporting silver and black.