Home to the current Super Bowl champions, the AFC West is one of the toughest divisions in football. So why don’t the Las Vegas Raiders weaken the Kansas City Chiefs and the rest of the division by signing players within the division this upcoming free agency?
To catch up to other teams, the Raiders will need to add talent at several positions via free agency and this year’s draft. It’s not rocket science but why not look at some players who may be able available? Las Vegas would simultaneously improve and cripple the division by inking said player.
Let’s take a look at one probable free agent per foe.
Hunter Henry, TE, Los Angeles Chargers
Darren Waller exploded last year and became quarterback Derek Carr’s most reliable target. When healthy, Henry was one of Philip Rivers’ most clutch receivers and the numbers prove it, 136 career receptions for 1,709 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns.
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Of course, the concern is Henry’s health. A legitimate red flag no doubt, and his price tag might seem steep at first glance as Spotrac gives him an estimated value of $8.9 million per season. Everyone is clamoring for a wide receiver (which is understandable), but imagine a two tight end set featuring Waller and a healthy Henry? Raiders head coach Jon Gruden would be salivating at that idea.
Sammy Watkins, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
The Raiders need help at wide receiver, that’s not newsworthy. However, signing Watkins and taking away one of Patrick Mahomes’ best targets would be provocative. Have the numbers taken a dive since his Buffalo days? Of course, but it doesn’t negate his talent, the veteran still holds a career yards per reception average of 14.9, an upgrade over incumbent Zay Jones. The money is what would be the biggest obstacle as he could potentially be looking to make around $11 million a year per Spotrac.
Chris Harris Jr., CB, Denver Broncos
The Raiders defensive backfield still needs help so why not snag one playmaker away from the Broncos? Harris would be an upgrade in spite of having a down year due to moving outside from the slot as Anthony Treash of PFF pointed out. 20 career interceptions and 98 passes defensed in a relatively healthy career would only enhance Las Vegas defense alongside Trayvon Mullen. No doubt Harris would be an expensive commodity as he’s expected to demand about $11 million a year according to Spotrac, but it’s a good thing the Silver and Black have cash to spend and then some.
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