Oakland Raiders: Free Agents Still Up For Grabs Who Won’t Break The Bank

Manti Te’o (ILB)

While he’ll never be mistaken for longtime Charger Junior Seau, Manti Te’o was reasonably productive in the middle of that San Diego defense. And he could be a decent enough fit in the Raiders defense.

The biggest reason Te’o could flourish in Oakland is the presence not just of Bruce Irvin and Khalil Mack, but that of John Pagano. Having better talent around him than he did in San Diego and a coach who is familiar with his style of play could yield some solid enough results.

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The biggest knock on Te’o though, is his track record of staying health and on the field. He’s not going to be productive if he’s not on the field – obviously. Through his first four seasons in the league, Te’o has played in 13, 10, 12, and three games.

That’s a total of 38 games in four seasons – with 34 starts. Not a great track record, to be sure. In that time, he’s produced 233 tackles (160 solo), has a sack and a half, a forced fumble, nine passes defensed, and two interceptions.

If healthy, Te’o (6’1”, 241 lbs.) is quick, athletic, and can make some plays – he’s made a few against the Raiders over the years. But the key of course, is – if healthy.

Te’o is looking for a home and has a visit scheduled with New Orleans. If that meeting fails to yield a deal, the Raiders might want to kick the tires on him, inquire about his health, and see what comes of it. Given the lack of buzz surrounding him, he could come to the Silver and Black at a pretty affordable price.