Oakland Raiders Free Agency: Rating The Moves So Far

Dan Williams

Nov 23, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks center Patrick Lewis (65) defends against Arizona Cardinals nose tackle Dan Williams (92) at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Rather than spending big money on Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton, the Raiders opted for a cheaper and slightly younger option in former Arizona Cardinal Dan Williams. Kent Somers of azcentral.com reported that the deal is worth around $6 million a year with $15 million guaranteed.

Knighton reportedly wanted closer to $9 million a year and much more guaranteed. The Broncos tackle was a top-tier free agent because he is a more well known player than Williams but he could provide similar production for the Raiders at a cheaper price.

In Dan Williams the Raiders get an upgrade to the defensive line and an instant upgrade to what was the 22nd ranked rush defense in the league. At 6’3″ and 315lbs, Williams is the prototypical run stuffing nose tackle that occupies a great deal of space at the line of scrimmage and can command double teams at times.

He may not get after the quarterback very much but his ability to occupy blockers may be just as vital to the Oakland pass rush. The contract is a bit pricey for a run stuffing tackle but defensive line was a major need that is addressed with this move. Williams is a second-tier player but at 27 at a position where players easily play in to their mid-30s, he may yet become a top-tier acquisition.

Rating: 8/10

Next: Malcolm Smith