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

Sheldon Richardson

Richardson is arguably, the best of the free agent class at the position. And because of that, twenty-seven year old Richardson is going to garner a lot of interest, and very likely, a very hefty payday. And it’s for that reason, the Raiders may be out of the running for the former first-round pick before the bidding war for his services even begins.

There’s also the perception that he’s a locker room cancer and a malcontent. Though, to be fair, it is somewhat difficult to distinguish fact from fiction when it comes to the dysfunction of the New York Jets. We certainly didn’t hear tales of woe about Richardson after he was dealt to Seattle.

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What isn’t in dispute though, is that on occasion, Richardson has gotten into some trouble off the field that’s resulted in him missing games due to suspension, which could deter McKenzie and HC Jon Gruden from taking a longer look at Richardson — especially given the price tag that will be attached to him.

Richardson has undeniable physical gifts. At six-foot-three, 294 pounds, Richardson is big, quick, powerful, and incredibly athletic. He’s also versatile, having played on the interior of the line, on the end, and even as a linebacker in his five-year career.

And over those five years, Richardson has amassed 284 total tackles (169 solo), 19 sacks, seven passes defensed, an interception, six forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries.

Richardson routinely wreaks havoc in opposing backfields, is constantly in the quarterbacks face, and is very stout against the run.

Richardson earned a tick over $8 million dollars in 2017 and is likely looking for a contract that’s going to pay him at least that, if not more, annually. Which could price the Raiders right out of the game from the get-go.

Still, the man is talented and could bring a much needed physical force to the interior of the defensive line. If there’s any way to make it happen, McKenzie should take a long, hard look at it.