Elric2056

A few updates to the Raiders needs based on free agency and a few points from observers, and some likely outcomes of the early period of free agency.

QB 9: It appears to be the general opinion that the Raiders won't want another young signal caller to go with JaMarcus Russell and Andrew Walters, so they'll find someone in FA - with the possibility of that being Josh McCown (or McClown if you prefer) since he's indicated a preference for returning, even if that means he'll be Russell's backup.
RB 9: With the signing of Justin Fargas the Raiders hold all the cards at RB and shouldn't be looking for another player there even when they let LaMont Jordon or Dominic Rhodes go (although I wouldn't be surprised to see a trade happen here to get something for their depth).
WR: 2 M4 - They desperately need 2 receivers. However, with only 5 picks and a lot of needs they probably won't be drafting 2 receivers unless there is a real good deal on someone late.
OT: 3 - Even with their improvement across the line, the Raiders could use still use more assistance at all three line positions as RT is an issue, Robert Gallery is still a disappointment (although he's did show some improvement), and Jeremy Newberry has yet to resign (although no announcement of his re-retirement would seem to be good news).
OG: 3 -
OC: 3 -
FB: 9 - This is just not a need.
TE: 6 - As I've said before the Raiders have got a good pass catching tight end in Zach Miller, and an intriguing young player in John Madsen - but I think the Raiders would like to bring in a top blocking TE that can make their running game all that much more effective. Unfortunately with only 5 picks the Raiders aren't in any position to draft at outside of their big needs...

Defense:
DT: 1 - If they run a 4-3 they desperately need a 3-technique tackle. If they run a 3-4 they desperately need a DT/DE tweener. Either way they need to stop the run and get better play from their DTs. With 2 of the top free agent DTs being franchised this isn't going to help the FA market/
DE: 3 - Chris Clemons and Tommy Kelly need to both be resigned. Until that happens, this is still a major need. And it's not clear if the Raiders will be able to resign both.
ILB: 9 - Kirk Morrison is a fine player in the middle that will be better if they can find someone to provide more support on the strong side.
OLB: 4 - They need help on the strong side, but won't reach to fill it as there are other more important holes right now.
SS: 3 - They need someone to play across from Huff at a safety position - preferably at SS where Huff has been playing, since Huff's skills are much better suited to FS or man coverage on top receiving TEs.
FS: 9 -
CB: 6 - The tag on Nnamdi Asomugha plus Chris Carr being only a restricted free agent means the Raiders can stand pat here, and I expect that they will fill any perceived need in free agency.
K: 9 -Too many other needs.