Bruce Gradkowski looks like the early favorite to be Oakland’s starting quarterback in 2010. But first the Raiders have to make sure he stays on the team.
With that in mind, Oakland informed Gradkowski’s agent at the combine they will place a second-round tender on the restricted free agent, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
It’s not a great sign for the organization when they are so confident no team will give up a second-round pick for their best quarterback. But it’s also a safe bet no one will go after Gradkowski at that price, so it’s a smart move.
Gradkowski will make $1.759 million for one year if he signs the deal. The team doesn’t sound interested in awarding the Polish Popgun a long-term contract yet.
This is just guess, but we suspect JaMarcus Russell won’t be the only legitimate competition Gradkowski faces for the job next year.