Oakland Raiders: Grading Out the Free Agent Class So Far
By Kevin Saito
Sep 21, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills tight end Lee Smith (85) against the San Diego Chargers at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
If ever there was a player molded in the vision of Del Rio’s dream player, it’s Lee Smith. As a tight end for Buffalo, Smith was a very hard working, blue collar, lunch pail sort of guy.
He gives Oakland a strong blocking presence at tight end – something they’ve lacked for at least a few seasons. As nicely as Mychal Rivera is developing in Oakland’s offense, he’s clearly a more gifted pass catcher than he is a blocker.
Adding Smith to the mix will give some very much needed protection for Derek Carr. While Rivera is going to remain the team’s top pass catching tight end, Smith is going to come in to do the dirty work on the line the team needs.
He can make a grab now and then when you need one, but his bread and butter is helping keep opposing edge rushers off his quarterback. He’s a very solid add at a very reasonable price.
GRADE: B+
Next: Malcolm Smith