The Raiders simply need help at linebacker. They may not need to differentiate whether it’s inside or outside linebacker, because they need both. Best that they try and find a smart, productive linebacker with a solid all-around game. There are some solid options headed for free agency.

Cory Littleton, 26

The complete package at linebacker. Littleton was an all-around outstanding performer for the Rams with 134 combined tackles, 4.0 sacks, 5 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions.

A Pro Bowler a season ago, Littleton possesses rare coverage ability for an inside linebacker, and in a league more and more about the passing game, that’s quite valuable. When you can put up his tackle numbers along with his coverage skills, you’ve got just what the Raiders need.

Blake Martinez, 26

His 155 tackles were second-most in the league behind only Seahawks stud Bobby Wagner. And it wasn’t a sudden thing either. Martinez had 144 tackles in each of the past two seasons as well while starting every single game the past three seasons in Green Bay. He’s basically a tackle machine.

Joe Schobert, 26

Perhaps no one had better overall numbers than Schobert. The Browns’ one-time Pro Bowler put up 133 combined tackles also had 4 interceptions and 9 passes defended. That’s the second most pass breakups on the team behind cornerback Denzelle Ward (11).

His 7 tackles for loss were third on the team behind DE Myles Garrett (11) and DT Larry Ogunjobi (10). Schobert was one of the few bright spots on an underachieving Cleveland defense that ranked 22nd in the league in yards allowed.

De’Vondre Campbell, 27

Campbell had a great season from the outside linebacker spot for the Falcons. He put up 129 combined tackles and forced five turnovers on three forced fumbles and two interceptions.

Others to keep an eye on: Neville Hewitt (27), Danny Trevathan (30). Will Compton (30)

[vertical-gallery id=60514]

[lawrence-newsletter]