ALAMEDA – The Raiders are stockpiling draft picks. They have five first-round picks over the next two seasons, compiled with the Khalil Mack and Amari Cooper trades and those bestowed naturally.
Head coach Jon Gruden told ESPN the Raiders aren't trading anyone else, but there's always a price for doing business. The Raiders are planning for a better future, armed with commodities to aid that goal.
Even with Mack in Chicago and Cooper in Dallas, the Raiders have value on the roster attractive to other teams.
Given how freely the Raiders have parted with vital members of a young foundation, it leaves some fans wondering if Derek Carr is available as well. General manager Reggie McKenzie said no player's untouchable.
Carr might be at this stage. It seems highly unlikely Carr will be moved during the season, anyway, unless it's an overwhelming offer they simply can't refuse.
Gruden has publicly supported Carr throughout his first year working with him, but this should be considered a prove it season for the Fresno State product.
He has all they physical tools to be a quality NFL quarterback. He also has a relatively tolerable contract, with guarantees already paid out. That could make him a tradable option this offseason or beyond. The Raiders could also get out of Carr's deal for $7.5 million in dead money next year, a total that drops by $2.5 million in each of the two years after that.
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There are some other options available that could be moved before the Oct. 30 trade deadline. Let's take a look at a few of them:
S Karl Joseph
The Raiders have reportedly been shopping the 2016 first-round pick, though they're looking for a relatively high payout for someone who has underwhelmed since leaving the University of West Virginia. He has a hamstring injury, but even when healthy was the Raiders' No. 4 safety behind Marcus Gilchrist, Reggie Nelson and Erik Harris.
Joseph has talent and big-hit ability. It's possible the Raiders take an offer for Joseph before the deadline. He might be the most likely player to get dealt, if especially if he's healthy enough to play Sunday against Indianapolis.
CB Rashaan Melvin
The veteran voiced his frustrations after being benched in a loss to Seattle, and has struggled to master techniques preferred by Raiders defensive coaches. Gruden responded critically in public. He's on a one-year deal, could be down on the depth chart and isn't likely part of a long-term Raiders plan. A cornerback hungry team might want someone who was solid as a Colt in 2017, and the Raiders could give younger players experience using snaps previously earmarked for him.
DE Bruce Irvin
The veteran edge rusher makes $8 million this year and $9 million the next, and his role has been reduced as the season's worn on. He's primarily a situational pass rusher at this stage, and could find a home on a team needing someone who can get after the quarterback. He could fit in quickly given the nature of his position. Irvin might not fetch much, but could he a rental for another team easily cut in the offseason.
CB Gareon Conley
The Ohio State product was benched last week for Daryl Worley, but he has great talent with some fixable flaws in his game. He's under control for possible three more seasons, and could fetch a decent pick if the Raiders are ready to part with him. NFL Network reported the Raiders would like to continue working with him another year at least, but anything's possible for the right price.
