Oakland Raiders Cut Tyvon Branch, Updated NFL Draft Needs

By Joe Wedra | Mar 3, 2015

Multiple reports emerged today that the Oakland Raiders are cutting ties with safety Tyvon Branch. The starting SS has been with the Raiders since 2008 and became a cornerstone and their secondary despite battling many injury issues. With Tuesday’s move, where do the Raiders stand as far as the NFL Draft needs go?

More from NFL Draft

It’s obvious that the team has to pick up some help on the defensive front-seven and in the receiving corps, but do they now need to search for a starting safety as well? In a class that is very poor at the safety position, it might be wise to focus on NFL Free Agency to find a starting player on the back end of Ken Norton Jr.’s defense.

Charles Woodson recently announced that he’ll be back for another season, perhaps something that made the Oakland brass spring into action. Either way, Oakland might have a tough time finding a replacement in the Draft.

As far as raw, developmental talent, the 2015 class has a lot to offer. If not in need of a starting safety right away, you would be in good shape heading into this year. However, a team like the Raiders could run into a bit of trouble if they wait until Draft day to lock down their opening week starter.

Currently on the roster, Oakland has youngsters Jonathan Dowling and Usama Young in place. Young, the veteran of the two options, seems to be the fit that makes the most sense. However, something says that Oakland fans would much rather see the team go elsewhere to secure a strong presence on the back end.

With a veteran market set to open, the Raiders could be big spenders on talents like Devin McCourty. The more likely solution would be someone like Bernard Pollard, but the lower-level players certainly provide more of a risk heading into the season.

If the team wants to ensure they can win immediately, something “safe” has to be done.

Spending the big money may just be the only way to ensure things work out.