Oakland Raiders: Making decisions on in-house free agents

Before the Oakland Raiders dive into the free-agent pool, team brass must decide to retain players on expiring deals or allow them to test free agency.

Free agency marks the first sign of the new NFL season, but before the frenzy begins in the days leading up to March 13, teams have to assess their players on expiring contracts. In a rebuilding period, the Oakland Raiders have an intriguing situation with several names to consider this offseason.

Keep in mind, restricted free agents who’ve been tendered can negotiate with other clubs and sign offer sheets. In that scenario, the Raiders would have to match that proposal to retain the player. If Oakland doesn’t extend a talent on an expiring contract right away, it doesn’t mean the two sides are guaranteed to part ways. Sometimes, teams allow players to test the market before striking a deal.

Keep a close eye on the running back position. Two veterans, both 30 years or older, Marshawn Lynch and Doug Martin, will reach a crossroads in their respective careers.

Beast Mode could decide to retire again. Did Martin produce enough to generate interest on the open market if the Raiders decide not to re-sign him? Lastly, Jalen Richard will have a restricted tag.

Oakland will probably go through significant changes in the secondary, specifically at the safety position with two veterans likely on the way out and a 28-year-old restricted free agent who could be a late bloomer.

We’ll go through 12 notable impending free agents and make the call on whether to re-sign that player or allow him to walk and find a replacement in his role. Each selection is marked unrestricted or restricted for status clarity.