The Ravens are preparing themselves to lose offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele when free agency opens on Wednesday and two leading suitors for Osemele’s services reportedly emerged on the first day of the “legal tampering” period that allows teams to talk with impending free agents from other clubs.
There are multiple reports that the Raiders are making a “strong push” for Osemele’s services with Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports reporting that a deal in Oakland would land Osemele more than $10 million per year. Adam Caplan of ESPN adds that Osemele could play guard or tackle for the Raiders and that his ultimate landing spot would be impacted by whether the Raiders re-sign left tackle Donald Penn.
Multiple reports also have the Vikings in hot pursuit of Osemele’s services. An offensive line upgrade is needed in Minnesota and Osemele would likely slot in at guard given the current makeup of the line, although the team can avoid paying left tackle Matt Kalil over $11 million if they part ways with him before the start of the new league year.
Kalil hasn’t played to that salary, although releasing him without being sure that Osemele or some other capable replacement is coming to town would be a big risk for a team that already has enough questions up front on offense.