Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie tried to pull holes in last year’s leaky ship through free agency. It was a necessary exercise contrary to McKenzie’s draft-and-develop philosophy, given the roster depth overall.
As is normal with veteran free agency, there were hits and misses. But, on a talent-thin roster, those misses cost the 2014 Raiders dearly. Quarterback Matt Schaub (technically acquired via trade), defensive end LaMarr Woodley, cornerback Carlos Rogers and running back Maurice Jones-Drew did not produce and left the Raiders high and dry.
McKenzie had a larger foundation thanks to talent acquired in recent drafts, but still had to heavily supplement in the free agent market.