Silver and Black Report

The Oakland Raiders continued to purge their roster of undesirable contracts on Monday when they released tackle Kwame Harris and fullback Justin Griffith.

Cutting both players cleared $8.3 million in cap space.

Harris, 26, signed a three-year $14 million deal last off-season and was given the starting left tackle spot in 2008. As the season wound down, his woes in pass protection and undisciplined play led to his demotion and eventual release.

The Raiders signed the former 26^th overall pick of the 2003 draft in hopes of getting the most out of his footwork and ability under the tutelage of Tom Cable. But Oakland gave up on the project just like the 49ers did when they realized that Harris was a defeated player and in need of a change of scenery.

Griffith suffered a torn ACL at Baltimore in October. His veteran leadership helped the younger players during camp, in the locker room and throughout the regular season. But with Oren O’Neal on the roster – also recovering from a major knee injury – and his cap number, the Raiders felt they could part ways with the pass catching fullback who is adept within the zone-blocking scheme.

Oakland will need to add a fullback due to their many questions on that unit and lack of depth there.

In total, the Silver & Black have saved $14.6 million in cap room since last week whey parted ways with Gibril Wilson, Ronald Curry and Kalimba Edwards.

Most of Oakland’s acquisitions from 2008 off-season have moved on; dating back to the in-season cut of DeAngelo Hall.

Another signing last year that may be on the verge of being released is wide receiver Javon Walker. Many reports indicate that Oakland will bite the bullet and rid themselves of the unproductive target, as he is due a $5 million bonus on March 3.

If the Raiders release the former Packer and Bronco, he will account for $14.16 million against their cap in 2009. At this point, it appears that Oakland is willing to absorb that hit now and move on with their younger and cost efficient set of receivers.

ANALYSIS

The Raiders had to get rid of Harris. Penalties, mental lapses and inconsistent play at left tackle as they try to develop a very talented and pricey quarterback could not be afforded. Not to mention that heavy cap number for inept play.

His career as a starter is likely over, as teams have seen him fail now in San Francisco and Oakland. Harris is tainted goods right now, and with his malaise and lack of confidence, its back to square one in order to revitalize a career that appeared promising coming out of college. He’ll probably land as a back up somewhere. Raider fans hope it’s in the AFC West.

Mario Henderson is the leading candidate to get the left tackle spot. The Raiders will likely need two new tackles. And with the draft having some intriguing options that are justifiable talents at their 1^st round spot, Oakland could target a tackle to help fix an offensive line that could have a lot of new starters in 2009.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist