Raiders Sign Kelechi Osemele

(photo credit: wnst.net)

The Oakland Raiders made a big splash today, signing former Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele. Both sides have reached an agreement on a five-year contract worth a maximum of $60 million. Every contract will become official when the new league year begins on Wednesday. The Raiders were among the teams that were well below the league’s spending limit.

Osemele is a consensus top five free agent and he has started 51 games over four seasons. Osemele is considered one of the most physical and versatile offensive lineman in the league. He played left guard and left tackle which greatly boosted his value last season.

Osemele also started at right tackle during the Ravens Super Bowl run in 2012. Osemele was a second round pick in 2009. He has built a reputation for being a mauling run blocker and a rock solid pass blocker. He gave up just one sack and 10 quarterback hurries last season. His outstanding performance was overshadowed by five-time Pro-Bowler Marshall Yanda.

The Raiders ranked 28th out of 32 teams in total rushing last season. Oakland averaged 3.9 yards per carry last season. Osemele is certain to fix the Raiders rushing problem as he helped open holes for Justin Forsett in Baltimore. The signing will help fill gaps across the offensive line. Center Donald Penn is set to be a free agent, J’Marcus Webb a guard is also set to be a free agent.

Offensive tackle Menelik Watson is returning from a ruptured Achilles and depending on how he returns, the Raiders offensive line could look completely different. The Raiders will now look to sign a running back and they are said to be interested in Doug Martin and Chris Ivory.