When general manager Mike Mayock was hired, the goal was to bring in as many high-football character players as possible into the organization. And for the most part, the Raiders have done that with Clelin Ferrell, Josh Jacobs, etc.
However, two of their biggest free-agent acquisitions did not fit that mold. Oakland took a chance on Antonio Brown and Vontaze Burfict, knowing full-well about their character on and off the field. Not only did they invest millions of dollars into these two, but time and practice snaps, as well.
But after just four weeks, both players are gone, leaving behind little depth at both positions. The shadow of Antonio Brown hangs over this team, and now Burfict is poised to do the same.
Hopefully, this offseason will be a lesson learned for both head coach Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock. While it’s tempting to gamble on talented but troubled players, it’s not often worth the risk. That is even truer when you are still in the rebuilding process.
Oakland is undoubtedly going to have more chances this offseason to sign and trade for talent. Hopefully, they don’t fall into the same trap as they did this season.
