Desperate for pass rush, Raiders take another look at DE Carter

Free agent defensive end, Andre Carter, was in Raiders' camp for a work out a month ago but he left unsigned. He wasn't quite ready to return to action from the quadriceps injury he suffered last season. Now, with the Raiders generating just two sacks in the first two weeks of the season, they are having him back for another look. This according to Jason LaCanfora of CBSsports.com.

LaCanfora also reports that the Patriots are watching very closely to see how the workout goes. Carter made the Pro Bowl for the Patriots last year following a 10-sack season with the team. They let him go because he was not ready to return. But if his workout goes well in Oakland, the Patriots could try to swoop in and grab him out from under the Raiders' noses.

Working somewhat in the Raiders' favor, should they decide to sign Carter, is this would be a homecoming of sorts for the former Cal Bear. He stayed in the Bay Area after that when he was taken seventh overall by the 49ers back in 2001 and played the first five seasons of his career there. He has 76 career sacks with four seasons with double digit sacks.

The veteran pass rusher would compete at outside linebacker as well as defensive end for the team. He would provide that pass rush threat that the team lost when they released Kamerion Wimbley this offseason. A pass rush is needed now more than ever to take pressure off the Raiders corners after the losses of both their starters to injury the past two weeks.

Carter has switched back and for between 3-4 outside linebacker and defensive end throughout his 11-year career with the 49ers, Redskins and Patriots. He made the Pro Bowl last season for the first time following a 10-sack season in New England. But he suffered a quad injury and the team didn't bring him back.

Follow me on Twitter @LeviDamien or befriend me on facebook.