Oakland Raiders Unrestricted Free Agents: Stay or Go

By Maliik Obee | Jan 18, 2017

Dec 4, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray (28) is defended by Buffalo Bills linebacker Preston Brown (52) on a 3-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter during a NFL football game at Oakland Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Bills 38-24. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) celebrates after a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers during a NFL football game at Qualcomm Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Malcolm Smith

Go.

In his second year in Oakland, Malcolm Smith registered 103 tackles, 1 interception, 2 forced fumbles and 3 pass deflections in 2016.

Even though Smith led the Raiders in most categories statistically, his play on the field shows different. Game in and game out, Smith struggled in coverage, being abused by tight ends and taking bad angles. If not lapses in coverage, Smith racked up penalties, totaling 8 for 82 yards.

Despite being just 27, Smith has been struggling with his flaws since coming into the league. Fortunately for Reggie McKenzie and the Raiders, there are more qualified interior backers in free agency and the draft.

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