The Raiders have made their first big move ahead of free agency, releasing starting middle linebacker Tahir Whitehead, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. Whitehead joined the team during the 2018 offseason as he was given a three-year deal worth up to $19 million by the previous regime.
Whitehead started all 32 games for the Raiders over the last two years and was their most reliable linebacker. Considering his durability and experience, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he found a home relatively quickly in free agency.
The move saves the Raiders about $6 million in cap space that could allow them to chase some bigger fish in free agency. With free agency set to begin in a week, the Raiders will have about $56 million in cap space available, according to OverTheCap.com.
While the move did save the Raiders cap space, it has left them vulnerable at linebacker. However, expect Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden to heavily address the position in both free agency and in the draft over the next two months.
