Bruce Irvin Signs with the Oakland Raiders
The Oakland Raiders are ready to “Just Spend Baby!”
In a move that came absolutely out of nowhere, the Oakland Raiders have signed a new stud for their defense. They will reportedly bring over Super Bowl winning linebacker Bruce Irvin from the Seattle Seahawks.
Irvin had 22 sacks in four season in Seattle.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport was the first with the story on Twitter Tuesday night on the second day of “legal tampering”.
The Raiders also have reportedly agreed to a contract with offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele worth five year, $60 million.
Here’s what Erik Lambert of NFL Mocks had to say about Bruce Irvin heading into free agency
"Perhaps one of the more polarizing players set to hit the market. Bruce Irvin is one of those rare types of linebackers who may have the skill set to play in any defense. He’s made a living with the Seattle Seahawks in their 4-3 scheme, but his pass rush prowess (22 career sacks) could draw the eye of 3-4 teams who are looking for outside linebacker help. For versatility, there are few like him. At the same time he does have a history of personality issues that can sometimes get him into trouble. If that can be kept under control, there is plenty he can bring to a defense."
A combination of Irvin and Khalil Mack could be a deadly pass-rushing duo for the Raiders. For a team that was lacking depth and talent on defense, the addition of Irvin certainly is a big upgrade.
The team is also reportedly looking at free agent running backs Doug Martin and Lamar Miller. They currently have Latavious Murray, but his ceiling may not b as high as once expected.
The Oakland Raiders entered the 2016 offseason with one of the lowest cap numbers in the league, giving them ample financial flexibility to bring in talent. With another good draft this spring, the long-struggling franchise may finally turn a corner.