Las Vegas Raiders: 2 FA linebackers who could help the team immediately
By CJ Errickson
The Las Vegas Raiders are hurting for linebackers as the regular season approaches, and these two guys could help right away.
As preseason dwindles, so does the number of healthy players on the Las Vegas Raiders. More specifically, the linebacker position for the Silver and Black has hit a gruesome string of injuries. First was linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski, who got nicked in the first preseason game.
The second was Nicholas Morrow, who suffered an injury in a joint practice session against the Los Angeles Rams last week. Finally, promising second-year defender Javin White succumbed to injury in last Saturday’s preseason game.
The status of all three is in question, and outside of Cory Littleton and Darron Lee, Las Vegas severely lacks experience at the position. However, they do have a few options to alleviate the situation before the season begins.
The Raiders have no time to waste if they want to acquire LB K.J. Wright
Former Seattle Seahawk K.J. Wright has been one of the top NFL linebackers for many years, and last season was no different, as he was an impact player yet again on Seattle’s defense.
As he enters his 11th NFL season, he would be familiar with Raiders defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, considering that was his coach for his first two NFL seasons. Aside from familiarity, his peers still view him as a top player in the league today.
The Silver and Black may not like the cost of his services, but he has more than earned it. However, if they cannot afford Wright’s services due to a potential bidding war, another individual can assist them temporarily.
The Raiders have given many players second chances; Reuben Foster can be another individual to redeem himself with Las Vegas
Say what you will, but the Las Vegas Raiders have given multiple players opportunities to succeed in recent seasons. The likes of Vontaze Burfict and Richie Incognito, and both contributed in various ways, though Burfict was a short-term solution, as he violated many NFL policies on the field.
Free-agent linebacker Reuben Foster has dealt with injuries and a troubled past. However, he is still only 27 years old, and after just two NFL seasons, there’s plenty of tread on the tires. When Foster is on the field, there is no denying his ability as a difference-maker.
The worst that could happen is that he suits up for a few weeks to start the regular season while the other linebackers at the position return to health. The best case can be that Las Vegas has another redemption story this season.