The Raiders signed their tight end last season in Kevin Boss. But they have yet to nail down a second tight end for two tight end sets. The Patriots have shown the rest of the league just how dangerous a team can be with two good tight ends and they took it all the way to the Super Bowl. I expect that to be the hot new trend and the Raiders would be wise to jump on board.
It would especially be wise considering the strong tight ends in this year's free agent crop. There are several good names that could come in and line up in two tight end sets with Boss and make for a very dangerous one-two punch.
Here are the most intriguing free agent tight ends on the market for the Raiders:
John Carlson (SEA) - He started out his NFL career with two great seasons for the Seahawks. But after his production declined in 2010, the Seahawks signed Zach Miller. Then Carlson tore his labrum and was out the entire 2011 season.
Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)- This is a guy that Reggie McKenzie is familiar with as his Packers had to face him and the Vikings twice a season. And since Shiancoe had 5 good seasons in Minnesota, that is a good deal of familiarity. The nine year vet has at least one more multi-year contract left in his career. He and Boss in Oakland would be reminiscent of Doug Jolley and Roland Williams.
Martellus Bennett (DAL)-stuck in the shadow of All Pro Jason Witten, Bennett quietly became a solid send option at tight end for the Cowboys. His production dropped off some last season which could make him a cheap signing. But he had a good season in 2010, catching 33 passes.
Bo Scaife (CIN)- Just three seasons ago, he was the Titans franchise player. He became a free agent after the 2010 season and signed with the Bengals. He was out all of the 2011 season with a shoulder injury but if he checks out, he could be had at a bargain basement price.
Also see: Other Raiders free agent wish lists: QB I RB I WR I OC I OG I OT I ILB I OLB I DT I CB
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