The Oakland Raiders enter a momentous week during the 2017 NFL offseason, with the previous offseason stories reaching a climax. The seemingly ongoing negotiations with Marshawn Lynch indicate a deal is feasible, but at the same time the front office of the Raiders have to think long-term.
Earlier this month, the Raiders set the 2017 NFL Draft as the deadline towards reaching a deal with Lynch, with a draft that features heavy running back depth. The latest rumors indicated that Lynch and the Raiders were roughly $1.5 million apart in contract negotiations, with Lynch wanting to settle for what half his original 2017 salary would be with the Seattle Seahawks.
Although much of the negotiations were centered between the Raiders and Lynch, the Seahawks remain a central figure in this equation. Seahawks general manager John Schneider indicated that he is open to trading with Reggie McKenzie, based on their existing relationship and willingness to work with one another.
With Lynch starting his reinstatement process, the Seahawks and Raiders have remained engaged towards reaching a deal. Schneider was recently asked about the situation, stating that both sides are continuing towards a final agreement, via Lindsey Wisniewski of the Seahawks Wire:
“They’re still talking,” Schneider said. “The steps after that were to be that if they came to an agreement, Reggie and I would discuss a form of compensation.”
Lynch still has two years remaining on his deal with the Seahawks, with the Raiders attempting to reach a confirmation with Lynch towards finalizing a deal with the Seahawks. Head coach Jack Del Rio stated that the currently retired running back is excited at the idea of playing for the silver and black.
Some recent news that affects Lynch’s status is the news regarding Adrian Peterson. After waiting throughout the offseason to consider his options, Peterson agreed to a two-year, $7 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. Peterson was in a similar money situation as Lynch, trying to capitalize as much as he could before deciding on a deal.
According to ESPN’s John Clayton, the Peterson signing actually impacted Lynch’s market. With Peterson signing with the Saints, Clayton believes that Lynch will eventually settle on a monetary figure with the Raiders:
With Adrian Peterson getting $3.5 million a year, the market is set for Marshawn Lynch. I think he will accept $3.5 million with Raiders.
— John Clayton (@ClaytonESPN) April 25, 2017
The 2017 NFL Draft is set for April 27, with the Raiders holding the 24th overall pick. McKenzie recently stated that he is excited for the upcoming draft, with many key selections beyond the first round and after the conclusion of the draft.
