Is Burgess on the way out in Oakland?

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Monday, May 18, 2009  |  Comments( 28 )

Oakland Raiders
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As the Oakland Raiders begin to mold their 2009 team, several key roster moves will take place between now and the beginning of September. One development could mean the end of the road for defensive end Derrick Burgess in Oakland.

Recent reports show that the New England Patriots have been in contact with the Raiders about acquiring the services of Burgess. In exchange, the Patriots would send a second- or third-round choice in next year’s draft. New England is known for stockpiling future draft picks and may have dispensable selections available to give up for the once-prominent pass rusher.

Burgess was a major force upon his arrival in the Bay Area, but his performance has been declining at an alarming rate. After compiling 27 sacks in his first two seasons with the Raiders, he’s managed only 11.5 in the previous two years. Furthermore, Burgess has missed eight games over the past two campaigns after not missing a game in his first two seasons in Oakland.

As of now, Greyson Gunheim and Trevor Scott follow Burgess on the depth chart. It’s uncertain whether either player is ready to step up. But if Burgess is dealt, the Raiders must feel one of the two is on the cusp of cracking the starting lineup. Scott, who totaled five sacks as a rookie, certainly looks like a capable pass rusher. Meanwhile, Gunheim’s production was limited to just two tackles and one sack.

While picking up a second- or third-round pick would be an acceptable return for Burgess, Raider Nation may question the value of acquiring another choice in the draft. Given Oakland’s history of questionable personnel decisions, particularly on draft weekend, extra picks might not hold as much value as they should.

If Burgess is traded, it may be a positive ending for all parties involved. Burgess' career could be revived by catching on with a perennial contender like the Patriots, while the Raiders continue to build for the future and get another first-day pick in next year’s draft.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To...
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