The Raiders continued to add veteran defenders on Thursday, signing Lamarr Woodley to a two-year deal worth a potential $12 million. Woodley joins former Giant, Justin Tuck in Oakland.
Pittsburgh released Woodley Tuesday after seven seasons with the team where he posted 57 sacks as an outside linebacker. Woodley topped double-digit sacks in three of his first four seasons, but has dealt with a series of injuries since, missing 14 games over the last three years.
Oakland surprisingly let ascendant DE Lamarr Houston walk on the first day of free agency, and have instead attempted to rebuild with aging players. While this strategy for the future seldom achieves much success, the Raiders do have the makings of a strong pass rush in 2014.
Tuck will man the left end spot and kick to defensive tackle in passing situations, and it has been confirmed that Woodley will play right defensive end. The Raiders also have the versatile Sio Moore, who is expected to have a Von Miller role at linebacker.
While his being classified as a defensive lineman is a good thing for Woodley’s fantasy value, his injury history is cause for concern. If Woodley is capable of shedding the injuries, he has the potential to post DL2 fantasy numbers. However, it’s not advisable to draft Woodley over younger players with higher IDP ceilings.
Editor's Note: Be sure to check out our new Mock and Companion Draft Tool! Utilizing our updated player projections, run a quick mock draft and see where this year's crop of free agents are coming off the board in early fantasy football drafts.
Jeff Ratcliffe is the Assistant Managing Editor and resident IDP maven of PFF Fantasy.
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