The Oakland Raiders have had one of the most interesting offseasons in the NFL this year after making a number of solid signings and draft picks and with team workouts heating up over the next few weeks, they could make another move by signing former Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe.
According to ESPN.com, Kluwe could be a target for the Raiders, as the team allowed longtime (and likely Hall of Fame) punter Shane Lechler leave for Houston, leaving a big void on the roster. Since the team drafted Lechler they haven't had to to think about the position and now that he is gone, the roster is left with Marquette King and rookie Bobby Cowan, two players with little or no experience. Lechler was one of the best ever and while Kluwe is not as good as he was, he could easily slide in and be a solid player.
Many felt that Kluwe was released due to his outspokenness on gay rights and that may very well be true, but he is a solid punter and since the Vikings drafted one in the fifth round, they felt it was time to move on. The Vikings covered their own tracks by drafting a punter, making the excuse legitimate and now Kluwe, who put up some career best numbers last season, is looking for a new employer.
Kluwe had his best net average and he could come at a cheap price for the Raiders, which is perfect since they are in a tight salary situation. King has a big leg, but he is untested and since Kluwe is a veteran that spent eight years with the Vikings, he easily could slide into a starting role. He could spend the next few seasons with the team while the Raiders try to find a long-term solution.
The Raiders were just 4-12 last season and although they likely will miss the playoffs again, there is a good chance they will improve, as they brought in quarterback Matt Flynn as well as a number of new signings on defense. After cutting veterans Michael Huff and Darrius Heyward Bey, the team signed cornerbacks Mike Jenkins and Tracy Porter as well as linebackers Nick Roach and Kevin Burnett, all of which should help a defense that was ranked low last year.
