Oakland Raiders: Five veterans who may not make the 53-man roster

The Oakland Raiders have far more players than roster spots – here are five veterans who may not make the final 53-man cut.

Oakland Raiders HC Jon Gruden has radically remade this team’s roster from a year ago. With some productive veteran talent, and potentially explosive newcomers, the Raiders will likely not only field a big number of new starters this coming season, but could potentially wind up being a lot better for it.

Though it wasn’t the route most expected the team to take to get there, Gruden and the Raiders drastically revamped the defense. A total makeover was something that has been much needed these last few seasons, as the defense has been one of the worst in the league.

Upgrading and improving both the secondary, as well as the defensive front, has been one of Gruden’s big priorities this offseason. And with a blend of productive veteran talent, combined with some solid returning players, and some interesting, exciting rookies thrown into the mix for flavor, Gruden has certainly changed things up in a big way.

The question that has yet to be answered though, is whether or not those changes will be for the better.

Some of Gruden’s maneuvering this offseason has sparked head-scratches, eye rolls, and flat out outrage among some of the Raider faithful. The motivation and logic behind some of his roster moves has been a little difficult to follow at times, which has led to much consternation.

But, the one thing to bear in mind is that a lot of the names we’re seeing right now, aren’t going to be there when the season starts. With only 53 roster spots available, a lot of folks will be getting their walking papers.

With that in mind then, let’s take a look at a few veterans who might not wind up on that final 53-man roster.