New/old Oakland Raiders coach Jon Gruden has his finger prints all over the team’s free agency While the team badly needed defense (and they got some Thursday and will likely add more today), Gruden’s first hits in free agency where to set the tone on his offense. He added blocking tights end, a fullback and
Some players’ futures are now uncertain
Signing Keith Smith I don’t think necessarily means the end of Olawale. My hunch is they only keep one FB, but let the 2 battle it out in camp to see who indeed they do keep.
Yes, maybe so, Jon.
I think it is very possible that Richard and Washington could both be gone if Hood has a great camp and preseason.
Its also not unheard of, especially in the RM era, Martin is cut at some point if he does not live up to Grudens expectation.
Its absolutely possible we keep only 2 TEs if Gruden wants 2 FBs.
I still say Gruden will bring in a third FB from either the pool of UDFAs or a draft pick. Gruden wont keep 3 FBs but he can always put the rookie on the PS.
Looking ahead and having a backup plan for his backup plan is very Grudenish.
Competition!
Olawale is so versatile, I am wondering if Keith Smith was more for special teams. I think Lynch stays (if he wants to) and Washington is gone.
BTW, a little off topic, but what do you make of the Burfict news? If he wins his appeal (unlikely) do the Raiders restart trade talks?
I read one article yesterday that pondered if Smith was possibly brought in for depth on defense too. He didn’t start playing FB until he was with (I believe) the Cowboys. LB being his more natural position.