Everyone’s familiar with the fact that the Las Vegas Raiders are thin at the offensive line. However, general manager Dave Ziegler is apparently looking to add depth to the linebacker corps.
As it currently stands, the Raiders have Denzel Perryman and Divine Deablo as their starting linebackers. Perryman is coming off a season that proved to be a revelation for the Silver and Black. He comes into 2022 off the heels of a Pro Bowl nod and one of his best seasons statistically. For the most part, Deablo has flown under the radar this offseason. At the same time, he thoroughly impressed at camp by all accounts. It appears the coaching staff believes he’s ready for a major role.
Veteran free agent ILB Reggie Ragland is visiting the #Raiders, per source. Former second-round pick has 47 career starts.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 2, 2022Â
Nevertheless, Ziegler welcomed veteran Reggie Ragland for a visit today. It should also be noted that the New York Giants released Blake Martinez. Both linebackers have ties to new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
Should Dave Ziegler take a flier on Reggie Ragland or Blake Martinez?
While no official word has come down on either veteran signing with the Raiders, things can change at any time. Either signing would likely land them on the practice squad for now.
Ragland, for his part, played under Graham last season with the Giants. In keeping with what these Raiders are building, Ragland is versatile. He’s familiar with Graham’s scheme as he can hold it down in the middle or, if need be, he can play outside. He started nine games for the Giants and accumulated 38 solo tackles and two tackles for a loss. However, he’s a liability in coverage, which makes the interest in him questionable. At the same time, Ziegler knows what his roster needs more than this armchair general manager, so there you go.
Like Ragland, Martinez has familiarity with Graham going for him. He started three games last year alongside Ragland. What’s curious about Martinez is that he too is a liability in pass defense, so why would the Raiders add either when the O-line and, arguably, the cornerback group are thin? It’ll be interesting to see if either land on the Raiders.
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*Top Photo: Kansas City Chiefs