Why Manny Lawson Should Choose The Oakland Raiders

Now that we know the Green Bay Packers are not looking after Manny Lawson that leaves three other teams: Colts, Bengals, and the Raiders.Currently a Bengal, the 27 year old outside linebacker is a former first round draft pick by the San Francisco 49ers. A freak athlete coming out of college the potential was astounding. He has battled injuries (torn ACL in 2007) but when he is healthy he has been a nuisance to quarterbacks. He has 16 sacks in his career with a high of 6.5 in 2009. Manny can be a great value pick up not needing a huge contract which already is a huge plus for the Oakland Raiders.

Position Of Need


The Oakland Raiders desperately need a pass rush, specifically from an outside linebacker.Lawson is an all-around OLB. He brings his experience to the team and can plug a big hole left by Wimbley. That gives time for a rookie OLB or DE to develop. If Lawson stays healthy I can see another 6-8 sack season which will help a developing defense. This won't be a playoff team but the signing of veteran cornerbacks and Lawson will keep from a completely embarrassing retool year.A small pass rush from him will help the pass defense and the corners who all have something to prove. A healthy Lawson will improve pass rush, which generally will cause turnovers (see Super Bowl 45 Packers). The defensive backs of the Raiders can really benefit from Lawson constantly hurrying the qb. Manny has great pass coverage skills deflecting balls thrown his way throughout his career. This is a must have with Manning and Rivers in the division. He's a very solid value pick up for the Raiders.

Start Immediately


Raiders need an OLB that can start right away, Manny Lawson is fully capable with six years experience in the NFL.In 2009 and 2010 he started all 16 games and only missed one game in 2011 which was a down year for him statistically in the sack column. He mainly came in on third downs for the Bengals so if he's looking to start and eventually get locked into a bigger deal/contract then you come to Oakland and make a statement.

Coaching Staff


New head coach Dennis Allen is the first defensive minded coach since John Madden for the Raiders. We've read it over and over again. A former defensive coordinator, Allen wants to make the defense its strong point. The Raiders new defensive coordinator was on the 49ers staff when Lawson was there. He has ties to Oakland and rumor is Allen wants to switch the Raiders to a 3-4 defense. Manny plays that great.

The Right Direction


Reggie McKenzie has the Raiders heading to the right direction as an entire franchise. Releasing bad contracts and extra space, fixing up the financial situation, not signing big contracts on free agents, and wanting to build through the draft. McKenzie isn't going for a one and done playoff run he wants a dynasty and Lawson can be a big part of that moving forward. Lawson is young enough to stay for a few drafts and be that big veteran linebacker to help lead the Raiders deep into the playoffs.The Raiders are young, and with a new front office aren't that far off from retaking the AFC West.