Oakland Raiders: Grading Out the Free Agent Class So Far
By Kevin Saito
Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles strong safety Nate Allen (29) runs back an interception against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-26. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
With the release of Tyvon Branch, the Raiders found themselves incredibly thin at the safety spot. Charles Woodson will undoubtedly be great once again, but outside of Woodson, the Raiders only had Brandian Ross to put alongside him.
Ross played well last season, which is why he was tendered a contract as a restricted free agent. But they still needed to add some help back there.
Enter Nate Allen.
The fifth year pro has spent his entire career in Philadelphia after being drafted by the Eagles. He’s been solid and more importantly, durable. Over his five season career, he’s missed just six games. He also has 10 interceptions and 31 passes defensed.
Allen averages about 50 tackles a season from the safety position, and adds a physical presence. He said that he’s excited to learn from coach Marcus Roberson and future Hall of Famer Woodson. He also promises that Oakland’s new look defense is going to play fast.
After so much uncertainty because of Branch’s unfortunate injury history, Raiders’ fans should be very glad to have Allen roaming the defensive backfield. While not a superstar or household name, Allen is that blue collar, nose to the grindstone type of player that Del Rio loves.
He will do well in Oakland and Oakland will do well because of him.
GRADE: B+