Right tackle is one of the Raiders’ most pressing needs heading into the 2021 NFL Draft. While they could use the 17th overall pick to address the position, they could resort to the free-agent market. Former Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz is still available and could offer relief at the position.
Alex Kay of Bleacher Report recently wrote about free agents every NFL team should sign and suggests the Raiders pursue Schwartz. He believes Las Vegas still needs help after making major changes to the offensive line this offseason. Also, he points out the right tackle has starting experience and could solidify the position. Kay mentions the back injury Schwartz suffered in 2020 but thinks he could be a solid addition if he recovers.
A 2012 second-round selection by the Cleveland Browns, Schwartz spent the last five seasons in Kansas City. Over his nine-year career, he’s appeared in 134 games and started all of them. Before the 2020 season, he hadn’t missed any games, so it looks like he isn’t injury prone. He was part of the Chiefs team that won Super Bowl 54 and has a First-Team All-Pro designation. He’s the kind of veteran players all teams want on their roster and would surely be an asset for the Raiders.
Would it make sense for the Raiders to sign Mitchell Schwartz?
The Raiders have a void at right tackle after trading Trent Brown to the New England Patriots this offseason. Although adding talent to their defense should be their biggest priority this offseason, they can’t neglect the offensive side of the ball. In fact, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them target a prospect such as Christian Darrishaw or Teven Jenkins at 17. Their offensive line has undergone a makeover and they need to get as much talent as possible.
On the other hand, the Raiders have less than $5 million in cap space. They could have a hard time making Schwartz a competitive offer. Also, there’s the fact the veteran isn’t fully healthy, and it’s uncertain if he will be by the season opener. If he recovers from his back injury and the team’s brass finds a way to sign him, he could be a low-key solid addition to the offensive line.
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