The Oakland Raiders are starting to run out of options when it comes to quarterback Carson Palmer, as the player is refusing to take a pay cut and could be released or traded, meaning the team could go after a player like Matt Flynn with the Seattle Seahawks.
According to ESPN.com, ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that Palmer is highly unlikely to take a pay cut from his $13 million salary and $15 million cap number, putting the Raiders in a position where they may have to cut or trade the quarterback. One option instead could be bringing in Seahawks backup Matt Flynn, as Bill Williamson writes that the Raiders are one of three teams looking at Flynn.
According to CBS Sports, the Bills, Raiders and Jaguars are in play for Flynn and he could be traded for a fourth or fifth round pick in the upcoming draft. The Raider are limited with picks as they don't have a second or a fifth, but they could decide to bring him in to compete with Pryor if they decide to move on from Palmer.
The report says the Jaguars are tops for the quarterback now, but that could change. The Raiders have some options as they could decide to draft Geno Smith, but they would like a veteran on the roster if they need to cut Palmer.
Flynn originally signed a three-year, $19.5-million deal with the Seahawks before last season, but Russell Wilson beat him out of a job and never looked back, taking the team the playoffs with an 11-5 record, leaving Flynn on the sidelines. Although he has limited experience, Flynn threw for nearly 500 yards and six touchdowns in a win against the Lions while starting for Aaron Rodgers.
Oakland GM Reggie McKenzie was in Green Bay with Flynn and in his career the quarterback has over 1,000 yards passing while competing over 60 percent of his throws. The deal would be tough for the Raiders with their financial situation, but if they get rid of Palmer that would bring them some relief.
Jason Campbell just signed with the Browns, leaving another veteran option off the table and putting the Raiders in a tough spot with Palmer. The Jaguars and Bills could be in the running, as Buffalo let go of their starting quarterback last year in Ryan Fitzpatrick, who was a disappointing 20-33 as a starter.
The Raiders went 4-12 last season and Palmer gave the team a top 10 passing attack, but they need more balance and talent around the roster to compete in the AFC West.