Former Cowboys linebacker/defensive end Greg Ellis
, whom some linked to the Patriots because: (1) he can play outside linebacker in the 3-4; and (2) he’s over 30, will sign with the Raiders, according to Calvin Watkins of FanHouse.
It’s a three-year deal, and it’ll be signed later today.
Ellis reportedly visited the Raiders on Friday, and he agreed to terms Sunday night.
We thought Ellis might land in Cincinnati, where former Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer now arranges the X’s.
Since the Raiders primarily run a 4-3 defense, Ellis likely will play defensive end exclusively — further greasing the skids of Derrick Burgess’ exit, possibly via trade to the Patriots.
After all, Burgess can play outside linebacker in the 3-4, and he’s over 30.
Doh!
Joined: Mar 2006
Current Posts: 48
This is a smart move. The Raiders have put some good vets in place to motivated and lead this young team. Picking up Ellis will help the dline's over all play.
Joined: Jul 2006
Current Posts: 994
It would be nice to have him and Burgess helping at DE, although I don't know that its likely. We now have Ellis for 3 years and even if he is coming off the bench it adds depth and a veteran leader to our DL which is in dire need of that.
Joined: Oct 2005
Current Posts: 925
I've said it before and I'll keep on saying it.....you can NEVER have too many players in camp. Signings like this are fantastic because if he doesn't have anything left and can't make the team we only owe him for time spent with us not the cap value of his contract or any of that other garbage.
Bringing in good players only makes those around them better. Defensive and offensive players will learn from his example, and he's going to make them all better by competing alongside them and sharing what he's already learned. I don't know that he's going to make the Pro Bowl, but he's going to help us out.
Joined: Aug 2006
Current Posts: 323
But if there's a plan to trade Burgess to New England, make sure they make up for the moss trade....(we need a solid DT) so if NE doesn't want to part ways with one, why not bail on the New England Trade and send him with Rob Ryan in Clevland for Shaun Rogers?
Joined: Oct 2005
Current Posts: 925
...the trade to NE for Burgess went down and in return we inherit Logan Mankins. He's in his last year as well and not likely to be resigned due to the high dollar value he possesses and what other needs and areas there are on the NE team next season.
Former Fresno State product who has emerged as one of the best guards in the league, it allows NE to get some value out of him while they still can...
it's not going to happen, but still its always nice to dream.
Joined: Jan 2007
Current Posts: 79
With what Valley Raider said. We can never have enough guys in camp.
The Raiders need to get some veterans in there and only keep the choice young guys (McFadden, Nmandi, Morrison, Howard, Bey etc.) and let go off all the lazy as people on that team.
I also think Russell will have a better year this year. I mean he sat out all of his first year basically and has had to dealt with the Raiders messed up organization and a coaching change. Give the guy a break.
Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 344
The Raiders need to get some veterans in there and only keep the choice young guys (McFadden, Nmandi, Morrison, Howard, Bey etc.) and let go off all the lazy as people on that team.
Personally I think it is too early to get rid of Jamarcus. :^)
Joined: Aug 2007
Current Posts: 652
Ouch!! lol
Joined: Feb 2009
Current Posts: 902
was it...
1) the guy is 34, and can play a 3-4.....hmmmmm that sounds like destiny!
2) we must replace our good DE who is in his 30's, that is just too old
3) maybe this guy can remember when the raiders were good