Oakland Raiders Breakdown 2011: Who Will Raiders Pursue in Free Agent Frenzy?

Todd Jacobs

2010 was a mixed bag for the Oakland Raiders. They destroyed their AFC West opponents going undefeated in their division but they struggled in out of conference games against the NFC. The Oakland Raiders stand to lose their best corner and the best corner in the NFL, Nnamdi Asomugha and they have already sent Robert Gallery packing before the lockout.

The Raiders also must work to sign one of the top five tight ends in the NFL, Zach Miller. The Raiders expect Zach Miller to sign once the lockout ends and once he is in camp Jason Campbell will need to work closely with him to make sure he gets him the ball more than he did last season.

Aside from Michael Bush leaving via free agency, the Raiders will most likely sign the remaining free agents on their team but look for Al Davis to get his feet wet in the free agent craziness that will ensue after the lockout ends. The following are the possible free agents the Raiders will chase.

No. 1 Priority Free Agent Signing: Zach Miller Tight End

Zach Miller is a must sign before any teams can make contact with him. He is attainable and he is perfect for Jason Campbell once the two learn to work together better. Miller is a stand out tight end who has risen to the level of top five in his class.

No. 2 Priority Free Agent Signing: Nnamdi Asomugha Cornerback

The Houston Texans and the New York Jets are just two teams interested in Asomugha. He will be the hottest free agent on the market and the price is high. The Raiders have already committed too much money for middle of the road players and they need to make adjustments. Asomugha is critical to this team but if they miss on him they will go after Antonio Cromartie and Champ Bailey.

No. 3 Priority Free Agent Signing: Santana Moss Wide Receiver

The Raiders already have speed in the wide receiver department and Santana Moss will give them a superior route runner to add to the mix. Don't be surprised if the Raiders also go after a veteran receiver as well. Please do not say Terrell Owens!

No. 4 Priority Free Agent Signing: Vonta Leach Fullback

Vonta Leach is one of those non sexy signings but he will fit well with a big back like Darren McFadden. The Raiders have a history of great workman like fullbacks and Vonta Leach is a perfect fit for a cheap price.

No. 5 Priority Free Agent Signing: Matt Hasselbeck Quarterback

Matt Hasselbeck is a wildcard. The Raiders would like to have a premier quarterback on this team and if they can lock up a top 15 NFL quarterback it is a good idea. Odds are Hasselbeck ends up in Tennessee or possibly Kansas City.


Sources:

Yahoo! Sports 2010 Oakland Raiders stats and news

Yahoo! Sports NFL Available Free Agents

Oakland Raiders Depth Chart

Published by Todd Jacobs

Todd Jacobs is from Anaheim, California and resides in the city of Las Vegas. Todd worked for Orange Coast Magazine as News Editor in the 80s and recently began writing for several online sites including:...  View profile

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