The Oakland Raiders decided to not use their franchise tag on any of their marquee free-agents this offseason such as DE Lamarr Houston or LT Jared Veldheer.
It is a peculiar decision given that the Raiders are projected to have a league-leading $66 million in available cap space. Of course, there is still time for GM Reggie McKenzie to hammer out a long-term deal with both players, but the odds that they will reach the open market have increased significantly.
Ian Rapoport reports that there has been “no communication” between Oakland and Veldheer in recent weeks, which isn’t exactly a great sign that he’ll be back next season.
Veldheer, 26, figures to be one of most sought after left tackles in free agency. He suffered a partially torn triceps back in August, and although there was talk that he could be placed on season-ending injured reserve, he managed to return in Week 13.
Houston, 26, should be in for an even better market now that edge rushers like Greg Hardy and Brian Orakpo have been franchised.
Last year, Houston, played and started all 16 games for the Raiders totaling 69 tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 16 defensive end in a 4-3 system.
We have both players included in our Top 50 Free Agents list.
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No way veldheer walks as for houston he can take a hike with his 5 sacks a year average.