The Raiders and drama have been synonymous this offseason.
So, will the franchise beset with stories of front-office standoffs, angry coaches and a disgruntled owner be able to lure free agents? We'll find out beginning at 9 p.m. PST today.
The Raiders were about $26 million under the projected salary cap of $116 million at the end of last season. That was before they re-signed running back Justin Fargas and franchised cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. But with LaMont Jordan expected to be cut and Warren Sapp's retirement, the Raiders will have money to spend.
But are there wide receivers, linemen or safeties who will want it?
WR Bernard Berrian, Chicago Bears
Cost: The market for wide receivers is thin. Berrian is one of the best of the bunch. From $8 million to $10 million guaranteed might land him.
Why he fits: The Raiders need a deep threat, and Berrian is a burner. He's also a California native.
Why he doesn't fit: The price might be too high. How will he fit in a West Coast offense?
How he affects the roster: Berrian would start opposite Ronald Curry. Safeties would have to respect Berrian's speed and threat to open up the offense.
G Alan Faneca, Pittsburgh Steelers
Cost: A lot – $50 million with at least $20 million guaranteed to sign this Pro Bowl player.
Why he fits: He would be the team's best lineman. Faneca also would be a leader on offense and would help keep the middle safe for JaMarcus Russell.
Why he doesn't fit: Did we mention he'll cost a lot? Also, the Raiders' zone-blocking running scheme doesn't put much stock in expensive linemen.
How it affects the roster: It would be time to find a new position for Robert Gallery.
S Gibril Wilson, New York Giants
Cost: A nice raise from the $1.3 million he received in 2007. Wilson will be coveted by several teams.
Why he fits: He's a big hitter, something the Raiders have lacked at safety for a long time, and showed he can blitz and disrupt the running game.
Why he doesn't fit: The Raiders might not be inclined to pay a lot for a safety who hasn't been named to a Pro Bowl.
How it affects the roster: Wilson's presence would allow Michael Huff to play free safety, likely improving the defense.
G Jake Scott, Indianapolis Colts
Cost: A lot less than Faneca. Scott protected Peyton Manning, so that might boost his stock.
Why he fits: He played for Raiders offensive-line coach Tom Cable at Idaho, so he would fit in quickly.
Why he doesn't fit: After playing for the Colts, he might not want to join a struggling team.
How it affects the roster: Another player who would aid Russell's development. Scott is accustomed to protecting a franchise quarterback.
DE Mike Rucker, Carolina Panthers
Cost: Relatively cheap, as he's approaching retirement.
Why he fits: Typical Raiders addition. The Raiders would try to squeeze something from the 33-year-old, who has been productive.
Why he doesn't fit: The Raiders like second-year pro Jay Richardson, and Rucker would take plays away from him.
How it affects the roster: Another big body at defensive end to help against the run.
Read Jason Jones' Raiders blog at www.sacbee.com/blogs.
