With free agency set to begin in a few weeks, NFL front offices are starting to put together their strategies and wish-lists. For the Raiders, they are expected to target defenders once again when the new league year opens.
But which players at what specific positions could they go after? We already know that cornerback is going to be a spot the team invests resources, but where else could they look to spend money?
In a recent piece by Ben Linsey of ESPN and Pro Football Focus, safety Justin Simmons was named as the perfect fit for the Raiders in free agency. Take a look at why Linsey believes Simmons would thrive in Paul Guenther’s defense:
Simmons picked a really good time to have a career year, and he should cash in this offseason because of it. Simmons was the most valuable safety in the NFL during the 2019 season per PFF WAR, earning an overall grade of 90.8 across 1,053 defensive snaps. It came from a well-rounded effort as well, with Simmons earning grades of 85.0 or higher in run defense, as a tackler and in coverage. The Raiders need all the help they can get in their secondary, and Simmons would be a strong step in the right direction, even if he isn’t able to fully live up to the heights of his 2019 season.
Simmons is expected to be franchise tagged by the Raiders, but it’s possible he could enter the free-agent pool. If that is the case, Simmons might just be the perfect target for Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden as he is the ideal fit next to Johnathan Abram, who does his best work in the box.
Look for Simmons to get a massive payday over the next few weeks, from either the Broncos or some other team. He’s truly one of the best safeties in all of football will be rewarded with a big contract in the upcoming days.
[vertical-gallery id=62676]
[lawrence-newsletter]