Raiders To Sign Rodney Hudson: Grade and Analysis

October 5, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs center Rodney Hudson (61) blocks during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi

A panic was beginning to ensue about whether the Oakland Raiders would ever be able to land a top player in NFL free agency what with over $59 million to spend.  Thankfully fans can step away from the ledge for a minute.  The Silver and Black have reached an agreement in principle with center Rodney Hudson on a new deal.

Hudson was widely considered the best at his position on the market.  He finished 2014 as the 3rd highest rated center in the league, posting a +13.0 Pro Football Focus rating.  He allowed just two sacks and two hits on the quarterback all season as a pass protector.  This is important for the Raiders what with their own starter, Stefen Wisniewski a free agent and showing no signs of wanting to return.  This deal makes that loss irrelevant. It also ensures Derek Carr will have a reliable man snapping him the ball for the forseeable future.

Grade:  A-

One always hopes to get a guy cheaper but the Oakland Raiders could afford the price tag set by Rodney Hudson.  Center is a key position on the offensive line, Hudson is just 25-years old and is an all-around type of blocker who can protect his quarterback, open running lanes and also get out for screens too.  He’s been a starter the past two seasons.  As big signings go this may not be the first one the Raiders had in mind, but it’s still a good one.

Best of all?  It weakens their division rival Kansas City Chiefs at the same time.