Oakland Raiders: Most Surprising Moves On Cut Down Day
By Kevin Saito
Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive lineman C.J. Wilson (98) celebrates against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
C.J. Wilson Sent Packing
The release of Wilson actually ranks rather low on the surprise scale, all things considered. He didn’t have the best summer, nor did he have an exceptionally standout exhibition season. But then again, he didn’t have a great summer or exhibition season last year either and was a very solid rotational player on Oakland’s defensive line.
Many thought the same would hold true this season.
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Unfortunately for Wilson, the defensive line is a lot better than it was last season. It’s far deeper and more talented than the 2014 version. It’s because of that depth and talent that the team feels they can afford to let somebody like Wilson go.
It was a mild surprise that Autry managed to beat out Wilson, but he’s young, has shown promise, and has had a pretty good summer. But with a line that features Justin Tuck, Justin Ellis, Dan Williams, Stacy McGee, Benson Mayowa, Mario Edwards Jr., and Denico Autry, Oakland feels great with who they have and were going to have a hard time fitting Wilson’s big body in anywhere.
The biggest surprise about Wilson’s release is the fact that he has a little more than $2 million in guaranteed money. But Del Rio likes what he has and Wilson is the odd man out.
Next: The Rookie Does Just Enough