Report: Surprise Free Agent Could be on Raiders' Radar
The Las Vegas Raiders have three of their five starting offensive linemen set to become free agents this offseason.
It is unlikely they'll keep all three of them and they have been projected to sign a surprise offensive lineman from the New England Patriots.
Alex Ballentine thinks the Raiders will be in the running to sign lineman Mike Onwenu, who has experience playing multiple positions along the line.
"The Raiders faithful may roll their eyes at the thought of signing a former Patriot after the Josh McDaniels era, but Mike Onwenu is legitimately one of the best free agents available at a position of need for the Raiders," Ballentine said.
"The 6-foot-3, 350-pound lineman has played almost every spot on the offensive line for the Patriots on his rookie contract. Now the 26-year-old will have the opportunity to cash in and get out of New England."
The Las Vegas Raiders could be in the running for offensive lineman Mike Onwenu.
Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
Considering the Raiders' turnover on their offensive coaching staff and the expected turnover along their offensive line, Ballentine thinks the addition of Onwenu could help soften the blow of losing Jermaine Eluemunor.
"The Raiders should be among the first in line to offer him that ticket out," Ballentine said. "Like Eluemunor, he has been tasked with playing several different roles along the line and he has been an asset regardless of where he's lined up.
"This season, he finished out the year at right tackle, but he gave up a career-high six sacks. He had combined to give up four in his previous three seasons, per Sports Info Solutions."
Onwenu's flexibility and ability to play multiple positions bodes well for the Raiders.
"The beauty for the Raiders in signing Onwenu is that it isn't clear where their needs will be on the right side," Ballentine said. "Greg Van Roten played well at right guard, but he's 34 years old, and Eluemunor was solid at right tackle, but he's also hitting free agency."
"The Raiders have questions on offense, including who will play quarterback, but it's going to be harder to find those answers if they don't have a good offensive line. Bringing on Onwenu is a big step toward making sure they have one."
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.
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