All but official for Raiders and Osemele
One of the first major signings of the free agency period has already happened, as the Oakland Raiders have added the top guard available on the market. That news was broken via twitter by NFL Networker Rand Getlin. It was later confirmed by Comcast Sportsnet both Midatlantic and in the Bay.
When the market opens tomorrow, Kelechi Osemele will become the newest member of the #Raiders. The two sides have an agreement in principle.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) March 8, 2016
A former 2nd round pick of the Ravens in 2012, Osemele quickly displayed his ability and value to the team. Not only was he an incredible run blocker and pass protector at guard, but he was also very passable as a left tackle. This versatility is hard to find in today’s pass happy NFL.
For Kelechi Osemele and the #Raiders, the deal they’ve agreed to in principle will pay him an $11.7M per year base with a max value of $12M.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) March 8, 2016
With the Ravens deciding to let the former Iowa State star test free agency, he was expected to demand around 10-12 million per year, pretty impressive for an interior lineman. With Derek Carr still on his rookie contract, it’s wise of Oakland to invest in their offensive line. Between Osemele, Rodney Hudson and Gabe Jackson, they’ve got an elite interior offensive line. If they resign Donald Penn and draft a rookie right tackle or sign one, this team could be dangerous.
More on the deal OG Osemele and the #Raiders have agreed to in principle: 5-year deal worth a maximum of $60M (!). Absolutely massive.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) March 8, 2016
One team’s reward however, is another team’s loss. Baltimore now has to be looking for a replacement for Osemele at left guard. They should also be looking for a left tackle. This isn’t an ideal situation for Baltimore to be in, considering their cap space issues at the moment. Don’t be surprised if Baltimore were to take an offensive tackle at #6, or they could even trade up if Ole Miss tackle Laremy Tunsil starts to slide.
