Donald Penn is set to earn over $7 million this season in the second of a two-year, $11.9 million deal with Oakland. But the 34-year-old veteran wants more.
Penn, who has started all 16 games in each of the last nine NFL seasons, is not reporting to training camp because he is unhappy with his contract situation, according to Ian Rapoport.
Penn reportedly wants to be paid like a Top 10 left tackle. He played like one last year. He allowed just 28 quarterback pressures in 676 pass-blocking snaps and gave up just one sack, though it was the takedown where Derek Carr broke his fibula.
Penn stands 6-foot-5, weighs 305 pounds, and -- at left tackle -- occupies a crucial position of the offensive line that protects prized quarterback Derek Carr.
The Raiders don't have another solid option at left tackle, unless they disrupt the line and move left guard Kelechi Osemele over.
Penn has seen the Raiders invest heavily in offensive linemen since he signed on, with massive contract given to Osemele and Rodney Hudson in recent seasons. The Raiders just gave right guard Gabe Jackson a five-year, $56 million contract extension.
The Raiders should have $14.825 million in salary cap space remaining this season after the release of Austin Howard and Taiwan Jones.
Sports
Uh oh: #Raiders standout LT Donald Penn is not reporting for training camp, source said. He's unhappy with his contract.— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 28, 2017
#Raiders know of Donald Penn's unhappiness. He makes $7M but has graded as a top 10 LT vs the top pass-rushers. Wants to be paid like one— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 28, 2017
