Oakland Raiders: Jon Gruden's offseason hits and misses

Oakland Raiders: Jon Gruden’s offseason hits and misses

ALAMEDA, CA - JANUARY 09: Oakland Raiders new head coach Jon Gruden speaks during a news conference at Oakland Raiders headquarters on January 9, 2018 in Alameda, California. Jon Gruden has returned to the Oakland Raiders after leaving the team in 2001. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – DECEMBER 31: Tahir Whitehead #59 of the Detroit Lions recovers a fumbler by quarterback Brett Hundley #7 of the Green Bay Packers during the first half at Ford Field on December 31, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Hit: Signing LB Tahir Whitehead

For those who followed the Raiders over the past few years, it’s a relief to see the team bring in a non-pass-rushing linebacker who does the dirty work. More importantly, Tahir Whitehead has spent significant time at all three linebacker positions during his time with the Detroit Lions.

Whitehead doesn’t rack up sacks, but he improved as a run defender in the previous season. For the most part, he lined up at weak-side linebacker. It’s not a glamour position, but someone needs to defend the flat, chase down ball-carriers and cover receivers in the middle of the field.

Oakland didn’t have much depth or experience at the inside linebacker spot. It’s unclear where Whitehead will line up for the upcoming season. It’ll likely depend on who the team drafts and if NaVorro Bowman re-signs. Nevertheless, in his prime, the 27-year old will hold a starting spot.

With one or two more acquisitions, the Raiders may finally put their linebacker issues in the rear-view mirror. At the moment, the depth chart doesn’t include Bowman. There’s buzz about Irvin moving to defensive end as a dedicated pass-rusher, per NFL Insider Adam Caplan. Expect Whitehead to lead this position for the upcoming season.

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