The Oakland Raiders announced Friday evening that they have signed cornerback Ronald Bartell, formerly of the St. Louis Rams.
Bartell, 30, missed all but one game last season due to a severe neck injury. He’s one of the most underrated corners in football when healthy, however, and adds much needed experience to the perimeter of Oakland’s secondary. Bartell is a big (6'1/205), physical press cornerback and should be a strong mentor for youngsters Demarcus Van Dyke and Chimdi Chekwa.
The Raiders also signed guard Mike Brisiel to a five-year deal that John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports is worth $20 million. Brisiel is an ideal fit for Oakland’s zone-blocking system and will immediately enter the starting lineup at right guard, replacing Cooper Carlisle.
Bartell is the No. 32 overall player on the PFT Hot 100 list. Brisiel didn’t make the top 100 because he’s a one-scheme lineman, but the Raiders run that scheme.
While these additions will generate little attention because they occurred late Friday, they are quality signings by first-year G.M. Reggie McKenzie. Bartell and Brisiel are both immediate impact starters.