The Oakland Raiders need to make big move in free agency. A team in desperate need of a winning season, they have to get a marquee player and an upgrade in multiple positions on both sides of the ball. The Raiders spent the first day of free agency getting rid of large contracts but now they need a proven player to sign. With safety Michael Huff gone, there are holes to fill on defense. The Raiders have been rumored to be showing interest in their old favorite Nnamdi Asomugha, however that may not happen as they are set to meet cornerback Terence Newman about a possible contract.
Newman is a 10-year veteran in the NFL. He began his career with the Dallas Cowboys where he spent nine seasons before joining the Cincinnati Bengals. At 35-years old, Newman's best playing days are certainly behind him, but he has proved he can be a consistent solid player on defense and would bring veteran leadership to a rather young and inexperienced team. Newman registered 75 tackles and two interceptions last season.
Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie is trying to sign a cost-effective player that would be friendly to the team's struggling salary-cap. Newman would sign for a low number considering his age. The financial woes of the Raiders have been continuing for years, limiting their ability to sign big players. It was rumored the team would look at former Raider Asomugha after he was released by the Philadelphia Eagles, but they might not be able to afford him. Asomugha will likely seek big numbers and while he did have his best seasons in Oakland, he might pick money over location.
Oakland has lost several players to free agency this season, including defensive tackle Desmond Bryant and inside linebacker Philip Wheeler to the Miami Dolphins. Newman would be a definite necessity, but Asomugha would be the better upgrade. Either signing would be a step in the right direction for Oakland. They are in desperate need of good news and at this point, any good move during free agency will be welcomed.
