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5 teams who could sign Darnell Dockett

By Cameron La Fontaine

Dec 8, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett reacts against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett reacts against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports /

Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders come in as one of the top destinations for Darnell Dockett because he fits their personality and their needs. The Raiders have the most salary cap to give away and they wouldn’t be dropping much of it on a player they need like Darnell Dockett.

At defensive tackle the Raiders had rookie Justin Ellis who had 21 tackles and no sacks last season. They also had Pat Sims who they aren’t expected to re-sign. Also in the mix was Antonio Smith who is a true defensive end and Stacy McGee who wasn’t impressive. I expect the Raiders to make a move for Dockett to add to the already veteran defensive line with Justin Tuck. That way, Dockett can play alongside Ellis and mentor the young lineman, and help the Raiders team improve from 21st overall in total defense.

The Raiders are looking to spend big this free agency and are a top contender for Ndamukong Suh on the off-chance that he leaves Detroit. If they still believe they can get Suh, they may not act as quickly on Darnell Dockett and could lose him to another team, but if they wanted to, they could really grab both Dockett and Suh but it’s unlikely. The Raiders need to grab Dockett while they can and then look to spend money on an offensive lineman (guard) and also look to help repair an offensive with no weapons at wide receiver or tight end.

The Raiders have the fourth overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft and are expected to take a wide receiver according to most mock drafts. Now’s the time to build on the defensive side when quality, affordable free agents like Dockett are available. Don’t be surprised if you see Oakland make a move for Dockett in the near future.

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