On Wednesday, NFL Media’s Mike Garofolo reported former Cleveland Browns linebacker Christian Kirksey was visiting the Las Vegas Raiders one day after his release. Two days after the organization released veteran Tahir Whitehead, the Silver and Black are actively attempting to address the position.
Offseason Unpredictability
The NFL offseason has moments of rapid fire that stem from one singular move. On Monday, the Raiders released Whitehead, and on Tuesday, the Browns unexpectedly released Kirksey. Knowing their need at the linebacker position is high, the team has elected to meet with the six-year veteran on Wednesday. It’s worth wondering what he can bring to Las Vegas in 2020 after just playing nine games in the last two years.
What You Need To Know
Kirksey showed in both 2016 and 2017 that he can be an impact player. Both seasons, the linebacker started every game (32 total) and amassed the following stats:
- 286 combined tackles
- 2 forced fumbles
- 6 sacks
- 17 tackles for loss
- 13 quarterback hits
The former Browns captain was on his way to becoming a top tier NFL linebacker before injuries struck in back-to-back years. As a result of only suiting up in nine games in the last two seasons, Cleveland opted to pull the plug on him.
Christian Kirksey's release saves the #Browns $8.75 million in cash and $7.59 million in cap space.
— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) March 10, 2020
Related: EDGE Arik Armstead could take Raiders defense to the next level
New beginnings for the 27 year old could provide relief to a depleted linebacker corps for the right price. The Raiders needs all hands on deck this off season to improve the defense and at worst, he would provide depth and experience. When healthy, Kirksey could be the player that fills Whitehead’s void at the position for less money and better production.
Christian Kirksey shut things down REAL QUICK 😡😡 @Kirko58 pic.twitter.com/yxNlh3nD8P
— The Checkdown (@thecheckdown) September 17, 2019
In terms of what he brings off the field, Kirksey’s impact in northeast Ohio’s communities speaks volumes.
After all of the incredible work Christian Kirksey did, not only for the #Browns but for communities across Northeast Ohio, he'll be one of those players who is beloved in Cleveland no matter where he goes from here.
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) March 10, 2020
Ultimately, the Raiders would be acquiring a man of character both on and off the field. Look for the team to offer him a deal quickly if meetings went well on Wednesday.
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