Cut were quarterbacks Sam Keller and Jeff Otis, and defensive lineman Tranell Morant.

The three waived players freed up roster spots for draft picks Arman Shields and Trevor Scott, as well as “franchise” free agent Nnamdi Asomugha, who signed his contract tender.

Keller was recently signed, after participating in the Raiders’ rookie minicamp. Morant also won a contract as a tryout at the camp. Otis was with the Raiders in camp last season, waived, and re-signed this offseason.

It’s possible one of the three, likely a quarterback, could be re-signed once persona non grata running back LaMont Jordan’s fate is decided, freeing up a spot.

The Raiders have 80 players participating as camp opens, with Jordan in limbo and international practice squad player Mauricio Lopez taking part. (Lopez will be on the practice squad all year, does not count against the 8-player limit, and is ineligible to be called up.)

The cutdown to 75 players follows the third preseason game, with the cutdown to the final 53-man roster due between the final preseason game and Opening Day.

By Victor Cotto, S&B Report Staff Columnist

Alameda, Calif. – The Oakland Raiders have signed wide receiver Marcel Reece and defensive end Tranell Morant. Reece, a 6′ 3″ 240 pound wide receiver attended Washington State and in 2007, he started all 13 games and won the team’s KING-TV Most Improved (offense) Award. Morant, a 6’6″ 275 pound defensive tackle, was a member of the Arizona State Sun Devils.

Prior to landing in Washington, Reece’s path took him through Chaffey College and El Camino College. But at all his stops, he showed big play ability along with his athletic frame and long arms.

Reece has all the tools needed to become a solid position blocker on the next level and he can utilize his physical prowess to get off the line of scrimmage and make the tough catch in traffic. One of the highlights throughout his collegiate career was a 98-yard touchdown reception vs. Arizona, the longest play from scrimmage in Washington history.

As for Morant, the former University of Florida transfer, was moved from defensive end to defensive tackle while at Arizona State, but has been mired by injuries throughout his young career.

OUTLOOK:

The Raiders are trying to find as much talent as possible prior to training camp for competition purposes at wide receiver. After Javon Walker, Ronald Curry and Drew Carter, there isn’t much to depend on in that unit. Johnnie Lee Higgins is just as much as project as a target as any of the wide receivers they drafted last month and Reece, who could latch on if he can show he can block and make big plays during the pre-season.

Morant is very raw and not likely ready to play at the pro level. Like many players, his vitals look great; size, speed and athleticism. But can he put it all together and translate it to solid football on the field?