Oakland Raiders Can’t Let Free Agency Overshadow the Draft

Jan 16, 2015; Alameda, CA, USA; Jack Del Rio (second from right) poses with helmet and Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie (left), wife Linda Del Rio (second from left) and owner Mark Davis (right) at press conference to announce his hiring as Raiders head coach at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Nobody is diminishing the fact that having over $59.6 million in salary cap space means the Oakland Raiders should do some serious spending in NFL free agency.  The chances of landing top quality veteran players to enhance their roster can’t be passed up and will serve the purpose of getting this organization to the first playoff appearance they haven’t seen since 2002.

However, don’t let the oodles of cash suddenly erase one overriding fact.

The Raiders will make noise in the AFC by continuing to exploit the 2015 NFL Draft well.

In case anybody forgot, they hold the 4th overall pick, which puts them in prime position to enhance an already strong, young core led by quarterback Derek Carr and linebacker Khalil Mack.

Look at teams like Green Bay and New England.  Those are the franchises to emulate.  Teams that save their money to retain their own players and only delve into free agency for a difference-maker that can help them win a championship.  It encourages the idea that the Raiders should approach free agency with an eye towards building their depth rather than seeking superstars.  That is what this year’s Draft class should be geared towards.

Rest assured, it’s okay if Oakland ends up with top name on the market purchased at a high price.  In the end however, they need talent if they can get it.

For Reggie McKenzie and Jack Del Rio, their focus should be on what is a critical 2015 NFL Draft for the Silver and Black.

Stay tuned to NFL Mocks for full Free Agency and 2015 NFL Draft coverage leading up to the big dates on the NFL offseason schedule. Also, find us on Twitter @NFLMocks.