Free Agent or Draft: How Should Oakland Raiders Fill Their Biggest Holes?

The Oakland Raiders have needs all over the roster. General manager Reggie McKenzie has to address all of them, but doing so effectively will take a two-pronged approach. Finally turning things around in Oakland will require the right combination of proven free agents and impact rookies through the draft.

Fortunately, the Raiders are in position to do both.

Recently cutting safety Tyvon Branch has pushed the team's available cap space to $56 million, according to ESPN.com's Bill Williamson, and the impending release of defensive end LaMarr Woodley will push that number even higher. Add to that the possible, if not likely, release of quarterback Matt Schaub and running back Maurice Jones-Drew, and that number is over $60 million.

The Raiders are also in great position when it comes to the draft. McKenzie has a full slate of picks to work with, including the fourth overall pick. No matter what direction McKenzie chooses to go in, there will be an impact player there for the taking in the first round when Oakland is on the clock on April 30.

With plenty of needs and the necessary cash and draft picks to address all of them, the only thing left for McKenzie to figure out is how to best address each position.

Here's a breakdown of Oakland's biggest needs and which option, free agency or the draft, is best for each position.

Begin Slideshow

...

About the Author