2. Raiders OG Richie Incognito
Savings if cut: $5.6 million
The Raiders added some nastiness to their offensive line when they signed Richie Incognito in 2019. Although he committed nine penalties, the four-time Pro Bowler only allowed eight pressures through 766 snaps in his first year with the team, per Pro Football Focus. His performance led to a two-year extension.
On the flip side, in 2019, Incognito missed two games because of a personal conduct violation that stemmed from an incident at a funeral home in Arizona that led to his arrest. He also sat out the final two contests because of an ankle injury.
This past season, Incognito suited up for just two games because of an Achilles issue. In November, he underwent season-ending foot surgery.
In Incognito’s place, Denzelle Good made most of his 14 starts at left guard, though he did take snaps at right tackle as well, allowing 29 quarterback pressures, per PFF.
Good’s 2020 performances alone won’t solidify his spot within the starting lineup. However, at 37 years old, Incognito may retire following a significant injury. If not, Vegas may release him and open up competition at left guard this offseason.
The Raiders selected guard John Simpson in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, so they have a potential in-house replacement for Incognito if Good, who’s a free agent, isn’t in their future plans.
Incognito’s injury coupled with the Raiders’ need to save some money will probably cost him a roster spot. The team’s uncertainty at the position and his speedy recovery would be the only reasons that he hangs on for another year.