Raiders release might boost Marshawn Lynch pursuit
The Raiders can use all the cash they can manage during an offseason in which they are courting Marshawn Lynch and are expected to sign key veterans, namely quarterback Derek Carr and guard Gabe Jackson, to contract extensions.
They just cleared some.
Defensive tackle Dan Williams has been released, the team announced Tuesday. He was scheduled to make $4.35 million in 2017 and an extra $150,000 in workout bonuses. This could free up the front office to be more aggressive in its pursuit of Lynch.
Oakland has been engaged in contract discussions with the retired running back for weeks.
The sides have yet to reach terms. A trade for Lynch’s rights still would need to be brokered with the Seahawks before he can join the roster.
Williams signed a four-year, $25 million contract in 2014. It guaranteed him $15.2 million the past two seasons.
Earlier Tuesday, the NFL announced it will release its schedule at 5 p.m. PDT Thursday.
The Raiders’ opponents are already known. They have seven true home games against the Jets, Giants, Cowboys, Ravens, Broncos, Chargers and Chiefs. Their eighth home game will be versus the Patriots in Mexico City. Oakland will travel to play the Titans, Bills, Dolphins, Eagles, Redskins, Broncos, Chargers and Chiefs.
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Contact Michael Gehlken at mgehlken@reviewjournal.com. Follow @GehlkenNFL on Twitter.
