McKenzie lists four positions Raiders could target depth in 2012 draft

Last week when the Raiders signed Philip Wheeler to be the team's starting strong side linebacker, the team appeared to have fit the final piece to a starting lineup. Reggie McKenzie had said that getting a starting strong side linebacker to replace Kamerion Wimbley was is top priority. Now the Raiders have him, the focus has shifted to much needed depth.

"When I talk to the coaching staff about (it), we need depth." Said McKenzie. "We feel like we've got players that we can line up at a lot of spots. And we've got some good players. But when you talk about a guy goes down, who do we have? A guy goes down here... we need depth at a few spots. Quite a few spots.

"And some of these guys, it's going to play out with the competition that we already have. The coaches are going to have to get to know some of these guys who are already on the roster. But we need some depth, regardless. To compete and hopefully win jobs. And that's what we're targeting."

He also rattled off a quick list of the areas in which the team would consider adding depth.

"When we say best player, whether it's D-line, linebacker, O-line, tight end... I mean, it doesn't matter. We want to get a good player. We've got five picks, we need to make ‘em all count."

McKenzie went on to say the Raiders will not be emphasizing needs and re-emphasizing the Raiders will be choosing the best player available. He also said the team would not reach for a player at a need position if a player higher on their board is available.