one thing to remember with Groves is that Oakland has had a different OL coach every year he's been with the team (I think). Cable was the first one in Grove's career that lasted more than one year and that is who Grove played the best under.
The Raiders run game has been very effective the last few seasons. Look at Fargas and Michael Bush. I don't know why some of you are bashing and promising we will regret it but I'm sure our former O-line HC and Bill wouldn't give 29.5 mill to a mistake with 14 garaunteed. Their record speaks for itself and I will take their judgement over yours. Sorry.
Ummm...let's see...eating a hefty contract or getting a 7th round pick??? you decide.
The track record in free agency has been mixed. Their draft success, fasano trade and street free agent record has been much more successful. Pennington doesn't really count.
1. Justin Smiley - had a positive impact but his injury history continues to be a factor.
2. Randy Starks - a good move and one they should be lauded for
3. Ernest Wilford - Complete mistake
4. Reggie Torbor - average at best...certainly not worth the scratch
5. Charlie Anderson - No
6. Josh McCown - See Wilford
7. Keith Davis - Didn't even make it out of training camp
8. Nate Jones - Came on late
You do realize that Torbor, Anderson, Davis, and Jones were brought on to provide depth and ST play and not to be playmaking starters, right? And McCown was signed to provide veteran leadership at the QB position once we got rid of Trent Green and Cleo since Beck was the only QB left. When Penny dropped into our lap, there was no need for him anymore and we got a pick for him. The main goal of FA last year was to upgrade the quality of our substitutes, which (judging by our 11-5 record) worked out pretty well.