Oakland Raiders: A few free agent defensive tackles worth looking at

David Irving (RFA – Dallas)

Given that Irving is a restricted free agent, the Raiders will have to battle the Cowboys for his services. But, it might be well worth it to lob an offer his way.

Though he appeared in just eight games for Dallas last year – he missed four due to a suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and the final two with concussion symptoms – Irving racked up seven sacks and twenty-two total tackles. In his limited time on the field, Irving also had a forced fumble and six passes defensed.

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At 273 pounds, he’s not going to be the biggest man on the interior of the line, though his six-foot-seven height helps make up for it. He’s also quick and powerful, can shed blocks – or just blast his way through them – and help get the quarterback moving and off his spot. As well as bring him down effectively.

As stated above, Irving is a restricted free agent, so the Cowboys will have the right to match any offer Oakland extends him. Irving made just $615,000 dollars with Dallas last year, which means he’s going to be looking for a raise, based on his production.

The question is, how much will the Cowboys value him?

Given the need to sign some of their own free agents, and with a currently estimated $18 million dollars under the cap, would they be willing to match an offer of a couple of million?

Hard to say at this point, but the Raiders would be wise to explore the possibility. Not only could they be getting a tremendous – and much needed – talent on the interior of their defensive line, they might even be able to get him at something of a bargain price.