The Oakland Raiders Biggest Offseason Addition
Don’t be fooled. Size still matters in the NFL. Especially if you’re looking to wear down an opposing defense.
Predicting big things for the Oakland Raiders in 2016 has become very vogue.
Most of that hopes comes from a solid group of offseason acquisitions.
It’s on the defensive side of the football that general manager Reggie McKenzie garnered the most headlines. Free agency brought outside linebacker Bruce Irvin, Pro Bowl free safety Reggie Nelson, veteran cornerback Sean Smith, while the draft netted first-round strong safety Karl Joseph. All are expected to be in the starting lineup come Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints.
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But as far as big and immediate impact, look no further than 6’5”, 333-pound guard Kelechi Osemele, who made 51 starts in four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and joined the Silver and Black in March.
“I come from a place where we believe in running the ball, and it’s good to be (in) another organization where that seems to be the goal with what they want to do,” said the 27-year-old pro to Eddie Paskal of Raiders.com. “I’m a mauler, that’s what I do. I’m a road grader. I like to run people over and leave them there flat, so I’m glad to be on a team that is headed that direction.”
“He’s a tremendous run blocker,” added offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave. “We’ve seen that on film when he was in Baltimore. (He’s) good in pass blocking. We anticipate his run blocking to help our run game be more productive.”
Hence the acquisition of the massive pro, who in March signed a five-year, $58.5 million deal with the Raiders (per Spotrac). Yes, running back Latavius Murray was one of only seven players in the league in 2015 to total at least 1,000 yards on the ground. But only four teams rushed for fewer yards than the Silver and Black last season and the club ran for only seven touchdowns.
But perhaps Osemele’s most contribution to his new team is a mindset not seen in this part of the Bay Area for far too long. “Right under your chin strap. I’m trying to knock you out,” said the former Ravens’ guard and sometimes tackle. “They call me ‘KO’ for a reason. They’ve been calling me that for a while, so that really defines who I am as a man. I’m going to look you in the eye and I’m going to take you down.”
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The Raiders are hoping their upgraded offensive line will knock out that streak of non-winning campaigns that dates back to 2003. Osemele will line up at left guard next to veteran tackle Donald Penn, while promising Gabe Jackson moves to right guard.
The Oakland defense figures to be better in 2016. Pair that with an improved ground attack that could wear down the opposition, it could be a breakthrough year for Jack Del Rio and company.