Charles Woodson: Are the Denver Broncos or Oakland Raiders the Better Fit?

As defensive back Charles Woodson looks for a place to play out the final chapter of an NFL career—a career that will likely culminate with enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame—it appears that the leading suitors are a pair of AFC West clubs.

One is the team with which Woodson began his NFL career. The other is that team's most hated rival. It leaves Woodson with a decision to make, and one that could come down to the most enigmatic of concepts.

His legacy.

As Vic Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle reports, the Denver Broncos and Oakland Raiders are among the teams who have expressed interest in the eight-time Pro Bowler's services.



Woodson met with the Broncos earlier this week, but according to Chris Wesseling of NFL.com, the 36-year-old left town without a deal in place.

However, Woodson's agent claims the Broncos have made an offer, which would seem to indicate that the deal isn't up to par with what Woodson believes his services are worth.

Meanwhile, Woodson will meet next week with the Raiders, with whom he spent the first eight seasons of his NFL career.

These aren't the only teams who have expressed interest in Woodson. As Tafur relayed, the Giants have at least kicked the proverbial tires. Larry Lage of the Associated Press (via Yahoo! Sports) reports that the Carolina Panthers have as well.

However, since the Broncos and Raiders are the only teams who have scheduled visits with Woodson to this point, let's take a look at which squad would be the better fit.

From a football standpoint, it's not hard to see Woodson starting for either club.

Fans of the Denver Broncos obviously don't need to be reminded about a particular lapse in safety play in last year's playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens.



The Raiders have an entrenched starter at strong safety in Tyvon Branch, but free safety Usama Young ...

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