Offensive lineman Richie Incognito has ended his retirement and the Buffalo Bills have since released the 13-year veteran lineman. Incognito’s free agency may not last long and don’t be surprised if he joins the Raiders.
Oakland Raiders: Going Incognito
Signing Incognito may prove to be a risk, but that is nothing new to Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie and coach Jon Gruden. One of this duo’s first splashes made this off-season was the signing of soon to be 33-year old wide-out Jordy Nelson. Nelson is coming off a career low year, albeit he didn’t have Aaron Rodgers for the majority of the season. Then on draft day, a host of Oakland’s selections could be dubbed ‘Boom or Bust’ players.
The potential addition of Incognito could prove to be a worthwhile signing for several reasons.
1. Incognito will add proven talent and a veteran presence to an o-line group looking to groom youngsters like 2018 first round selection Kolton Miller. Incognito has been in the league since 2005 and his stellar play has earned him four Pro Bowl selections.
2. Raiders guard Gabe Jackson has seen his play take a significant dip in production. Jackson was graded 84.4 in 2016 per Pro Football Focus, however, his grade slid to 69.1 after last season. Incognito’s presence alone will increase the competitive nature with this o-line as the preseason is fast approaching. With Keleche Osemele at the left guard spot, Incognito would likely compete with Jackson for the right guard position.
3. Incognito has been in this situation before in search of a new team and in 2014 he was asked about the Raiders organization. At that time Incognito told NFL.com’s Mike Silver about joining the Raiders that he’s “100 percent into that.” He added, “I think that would fit my personality the best. It makes so much sense. I know (offensive coordinator Greg) Olson and (offensive line coach Tony) Sparano, and I’m a loyal guy, and I’d love to play for them again. And, of course, the Raiders have that aura.”
While Sparano has since moved on, Greg Olson has found his way back to the Bay and could potentially be reunited with Incognito. Olson was the offensive coordinator for the Rams from 2006 to 2007 which overlapped Incognito’s five-year stint in St. Louis.
Raider Nation, should the Silver and Black bring in the aging veteran to add to the squad’s “Carr Insurance” or should they pass on signing him?
