Earlier on Monday, we shared a report that the Raiders would release cornerback Ron Bartell.
The team has made that move official and also announced that linebacker Rolando McClain has been reinstated to the active roster. McClain was suspended for the last two games for conduct detrimental to the team after an argument with coach Dennis Allen during practice. McClain said that he was finished with the Raiders, but Monday’s move shows that the Raiders have a different take on the matter.
According to the team, McClain will not be required to return to work until he and Allen have a conversation. Allen is away from the team to attend his father’s funeral, so any such meeting will be delayed until he returns. If he does suit up and play in the final three weeks of the season, part of the intent will likely be rehabilitating his value enough to create a possible market for his services in the offseason.
The Raiders also released fullback Owen Schmitt and promoted cornerback Chimdi Chekwa from the practice squad. Chekwa, a 2011 fourth-round pick, played in four games last season and was signed to the practice squad after failing to make the team out of training camp.