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Kahlif Barnes Signs

Not long after I touted the old gimpy guy Orlando Pace, the Raiders quickly moved to strike a deal with young healthy guy Khalif Barnes. He has signed a one year deal.

Khalif brings a level of unknown. He was a huge underachiever in Jacksonville. My Jags fan friend called him a turnstile. He certainly isn't the man I'd trust with the LT spot so it will be interesting to see if he wins the job. It appears that Cable and Davis are going to give him that chance. I have severe reservations about Barnes at LT. I would be comfortable with Barnes on the right ride. Barnes also brings off the field baggage and hopefully he can clean up, but that is far from a guarantee.

A one year deal is ideal. Barnes is playing for much more money next offseason when he will be just 27. He needs to prove his worth to the team and in the NFL both on and off the field.

Here is the quote from John Clayton's article.

"I think this is a great opportunity and place for me to start fresh," Barnes said. "I'm excited to be part of helping this franchise get back on top and I will have a shot to be the starter at left tackle and that's all I can ask for. I have a lot to prove and I'm betting on myself by agreeing to a one-year contract. [Raiders owner] Mr. [Al] Davis has a track record of taking care of his own guys and he promised me the same, if I take care of my business on and off the field."

Barnes is young and talented, with concerns. I guess he brings the same level of unknown to the table as any draft pick would. Also, the offensive line is slowly coming together.

LT: Barnes, Pears
LG: Gallery, McQuistan
OC: Wade, Morris
RG: Carlisle, Morris
RT: Henderson, Green

Backups: Marten, Wilson

This makes it far less likely the Raiders draft a LT in April's draft. I don't blame them, Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe are likely going to be taken before the Raiders pick.

So what now? A guess a new needs index is due.
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