Shopping list to fill holes in the 53: How the Oakland Raiders can fortify their roster

August 31, 3:59 PMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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Kirk Morrison (52) is great Hiram Eugene (31) could be replaced

Yesterday, the Oakland Raiders slashed their roster down to the league mandated 53 man squad. A few of the players released will likely be signed to the practice squad tomorrow if no other team puts in a claim for them. There are some weak points on the current roster where the Raiders should do some shopping of their own on the waiver wire. Here's a look at who the Raiders are expected to bring to the practice squad and a waiver wire shopping list.

Practice Squad:

Louis Rankin had a very good camp, and looked strong as a runner during the preseason games. It was surprising that he was cut as the Raiders only went with four backs. (Including fullbacks.) Rankin seemed to turn enough heads that the Raiders would bring him in to be part of the practice squad, where he would be available for a quick call up in the event of an injury.

Marcel Reece moved from wide receiver to H-back to fullback. He was such a hard worker he was given an award at an offseason camp. He was just a bit too raw to make the roster, but the Raiders have to be enamored with his size and potential.

Nick Sanchez was a late arrival to the Raiders as an undrafted free agent. He had stretches where he looked really promising, but also had several rookie mistakes. He would be a good addition to the Raiders practice squad, as it would give him a chance to develop his skills and raise his game.

Darrell Strong looked like he was making a push for the team, but the Raiders elected to go with only three tight ends. If he clears waivers, he is another strong candidate to make the practice squad so he can get a year to develop and compete for a slot next season.

Waiver Wire shopping:

Offensive tackle:
To say that the Raiders are paper thin at offensive tackle would be an understatement. Kwame Harris and Cornell Green are the starters, but they are both marginal as pros. Beyond them is the depth of Mario Henderson and Seth Wand who both looked atrocious in the preseason. The Raiders had no other depth or real competition at the tackle slot. Al Davis is loathe to give up on Henderson, despite his poor play, because last year Davis gave up this year's third round pick to move up and draft him. Wand, on the other hand, is completely expendable.

Max Starks
He is not on the waiver wire, but the rumor mill has him available as trade bait. Al Davis is not one who is shy about pulling the trigger on trades, and this would be a good pickup as he would be an upgrade over Harris or Green. If he could be had for a second round pick, just do it.

Willie Anderson
The Cincinnati Bengals cut the veteran offensive lineman to save money against the cap. He is on the downside of his career, but would be an upgrade at either tackle position.

Wide Receiver:
The Raiders wide receiver position is precarious, as both Ronald Curry and Javon Walker have injury histories. Behind them is a young trio of receivers. Of those three, Johnnie Lee Higgins would be the one who could most use replacement.

Koren Robinson
Koren would be a stereotypical Al Davis signing, a player with superior talent and speed who has had trouble with personal demons. He would definitely be an upgrade to Higgins in both the return game and as a receiver.

Eddie Drummond
Drummond would be an instant shot in the arm to the return game. He hasn't shown much as a wide receiver, but would be a huge upgrade as a return man. The Raiders should take a look at him.

Tab Perry
Perry was a strong kick returner for the Bengals, he would be an upgrade over Higgins in that department. However, he hasn't shown much in the receiving department. Would be a questionable move overall.

Linebacker:
The Raiders kept seven linebackers, but Robert Thomas and Sam Williams could easily be upgraded. Isaiah Ekejiuba's saving grace is his special teams play. The Raiders could easily upgrade the depth at this position.

Rosevelt Colvin
Colvin is a veteran 'backer who can be a strong run stuffer. He would be a veteran presence to help the young linebacking corps, and could be a force as a short yardage run stuffer.

Jeremiah Trotter
Trotter may not have much left in the tank, but he would be a key veteran presence who would likely be like a coach on the field for the young backers. He could still contribute in run support.

Defensive Back:

Rashad Baker and Chris Johnson have looked passable, but there are many in the Raider Nation scratching their heads when it was announced that Hiram Eugene made the team. The Raiders could look to upgrade Eugene, Baker, and maybe Johnson to add depth behind the top-flight starters.
 
Stuart Schewigert
Stu was cut by the Redskins and Giants, but really should not be resigned by the Raiders. Just had to throw that name out there just for laughs.

Lance Schulters
Schulters is a hard hitting safety who has had some success on special teams. He would be a step up from Eugene, and could provide some veteran leadership to the team. He likely could be had for fairly cheap, filling the shoes of the retired Jarrod Cooper.

Mike Doss
Doss is an experienced safety who would be a step up from Hiram Eugene. He could also contribute on special teams.

Reynaldo Hill
Hill is another veteran who can come in and make some plays for the Raiders. He would be an asset in the dime defense, or be able to spell any of the other corners when needed.