Report: Longtime Chiefs Pro Bowl Linebacker to Visit Raiders on Free-agent Visit

The Raiders filled several needs in the NFL Draft. They did not, however, go after a middle linebacker early. A top prospect could've been an option to start right away, but the Raiders focused on offensive and defensive lines with most of their amateur selections.

That doesn't mean their linebacker corps is set for the season. They're still looking for help on the inside, which is why a former rival is coming to meet with the Raiders.

Longtime Kansas City Chief Derrick Johnson will visit the Raiders' facility on Thursday about joining the Silver and Black, according to an ESPN report.

The four-time Pro Bowler is widely respected throughout the league as a leader and sure tackler, but is 35 years old and on the open market after the Chiefs voided his contract this offseason.

He has suffered two Achilles' tendon tears since 2014, but has responded to them well. He had 91 tackles and a fumble recovery in 15 games last season.

General manager Reggie McKenzie said last week the door's still open for NaVorro Bowman to return to a defense he led most of 2017. He signed with the Raiders after the 49ers cut him, but player and team haven't reached a pact despite a mutual desire to do so. Bowman has deemed the Raiders' offers unsatisfactory to this stage, leaving the Raiders lacking in the middle. Second-year pros Marquel Lee and Nicholas Morrow would likely platoon in the middle if no other additions are made.

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