The new league year for the NFL will officially begin on March 9, but before that, the owners and the NFL Players Association must come to an agreement regarding the 2016 salary cap. As things stand now, many expect the cap to rise from $143.28 million this year to around $155 million next season. As a rising tide lifts all ships, this will leave several franchises with ample cap space to make moves in free agency, should they be so inclined.
One team that may take advantage of their extra breathing room is the Oakland Raiders. Though just 7-9 this past season, the Raiders have some strong foundational pieces in place. Quarterback Derek Carr made major strides in his second season, wide receiver Amari Cooper is already a star and second-year linebacker Khalil Mack may just be the most fearsome young defensive player in the league. If the Raiders add a few solid veterans at key positions in free agency, they may threaten to finish above .500 for the first time in more than a decade.
According to ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates, Oakland will have approximately $72 million in cap space this offseason.
"This team has an arrow that is unquestionably point up," Yates wrote. "Defensively, the roster will take shape around Khalil Mack. However, the secondary needs immediate treatment at both safety and cornerback, and cornerback is a particular area of need. David Amerson - acquired midseason on waivers - was a really nice find, but former first-round pick D.J. Hayden has not met expectations.
"The price of the cornerback class in free agency is Josh Norman, though it seems unlikely he'll be leaving Carolina. Janoris Jenkins is a sticky cover corner who played well for the Rams in 2015, as did his teammate and fellow free agent Trumaine Johnson (6-foot-2, 208 pounds). Giants cornerback Prince Amukamara is also likely to be coveted this offseason."
As can be inferred, the Raiders defense struggled against the pass in 2015. They finished the season ranked No. 26 in passing yards allowed per game (259), No. 15 in passing touchdowns (25) and No. 16 in opposing completion percentage (63.0). Though Norman is doubtful, the others remain distinct possibilities.
Unlike past years, the Raiders have become a viable landing spot for free agents thanks to their young and talented nucleus. It would be surprising to see them miss out on all of the top options at the position in free agency.
