With lots of cap space and an owner who may be inclined to clean house if the team misses the playoffs again, the Raiders have made a big push to add plenty of veterans in 2014.
Now, Raiders fans are making a big push to add another big-name veteran who suddenly became available.
The people want DeSean Jackson. The hashtag “DJaxtoOakland” currently is atop the trending topics on Twitter. For the illtwiterate, this means that thousands of people are including that phrase in messages posted on the social media monster, creating a groundswell for the team to bring Jackson to town.
The Raiders, we’re told, have indeed expressed interest in Jackson. The question is whether they’re willing to make the investment necessary to close the deal.
Whatever the risk, the reward could be significant for a team that hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2002. Jackson brings real explosiveness to the offense, drawing attention and opening up the rest of the field.
Last season, in his only career NFL game in Oakland, Jackson caught six passes for 150 yards and a touchdown against the Raiders.
For G.M. Reggie McKenzie and coach Dennis Allen, the importance of winning in 2014 overrides all other factors. For owner Mark Davis, the ability to fill a dilapidated stadium that has started using tarps — and to create excitement toward building a new one — justifies what would be the boldest move by the franchise since the trade for Randy Moss nine years ago.
The best news is that the Raiders can get Jackson without giving up a single draft pick or player. In a division with three 2013 playoff teams, Jackson could be the ingredient that propels the long-suffering franchise back to relevance.
And whether you love the Raiders or hate them, the NFL becomes a lot more fun when the Raiders are relevant.