Oakland Raiders: 5 Realistic targets in 2019 NFL free agency
By Cory Kinnan
Shaquil Barrett
While the Raiders are locking in on drafting a top-tier edge rushing prospect in the upcoming draft, it would make sense for them to pursue at least one in free agency as well, as they tallied only 13 sacks in 2019. There are a number of quality pass rushing prospects hitting the open market, such as Jadeveon Clowney, Brandon Graham and Ziggy Ansah.
Even with these big name pass rushers, considering the Raiders will be drafting one early in the first round as well, a possible bargain edge rusher in free agency might be their best bet. It is realistic that Oakland could poach a young, quality pass rusher from division rival Denver Broncos: Shaquil Barrett.
At the end of the 2018 season, Barrett stated his desires to sign somewhere that would give him the opportunity to start, per 247 Sports, an opportunity that he did not feel like he was getting in Denver; the Raiders can use any help that they could get and Barrett would come in and immediately be the best pass rusher on the roster until they draft one in April.
In his five years in Denver as a situational and rotational edge rusher, Barrett knocked down a total of seven passes, while forcing seven fumbles and recording 14 sacks. There is no telling what kind of production Barrett could have if given a bigger role and a better opportunity. Oakland has the money and the opportunity to lure the soon-to-be 27-year old Barrett into a black and silver uniform.