The Oakland Raiders continue to miss out on receiving help in free agency. The team has considered multiple players, but so far everyone has signed elsewhere. The only move they have made for offensive fire power is bringing back Darren McFadden which likely did not make too many fans very happy. After missing out on yet another star, does Oakland shift their focus to the draft?
The Raiders were hoping to make a run at tight end Brandon Pettigrew, but the Detroit Lions got to him first. The free agent agreed to a four-year contract to remain with the Lions. The deal is reportedly worth upwards of $16 million.
The Raiders could have easily offered that with their available cap space, but never managed to get a meeting before Detroit swooped in and signed him. So, with Pettigrew off the market, who could be next? ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Oakland is looking at Jermichael Finley as an option, but again they will need to hurry if they seriously want him.
Finley has been drawing a lot of interest despite the neck injury he suffered last year that required extensive surgery. Finley went to the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday for a visit, but left without a contract, leaving many to put Oakland as the frontrunners. ESPN reports that Finley's visit to the Seahawks was over with no contract offer, but that does not mean the team will not eventually sign him. Several franchises would like Finley to take a physical before making a move on him.
Another option for Oakland in free agency could be Owen Daniels. The tight end was released by the Houston Texans after spending eight seasons in Oakland. Daniels is visiting other teams throughout the weekend, but a return home to Oakland could certainly be favorable.
If all else fails in free agency, grabbing a top wide receiver in the draft might be something the Raiders begin to consider. The Raiders currently have the No. 5 overall pick and would be wise to use that on help at the receiving position rather than grabbing a quarterback. Both Johnny Manziel and Blake Bortles will be gone, leaving a wide receiver the best option.
Oakland will keep a close eye on Mike Evans and Sammy Watkins. Both players are considered the best available. They would certainly be key weapons to help bring a rookie or second-year quarterback along. If Oakland cannot get a single deal done, expect the draft to become the top target.
