Pass rushers are hard to find in the NFL, and the best ones can make big money. Just ask Mario Williams and his new $50 million guarantee from the Buffalo Bills. While Kamerion Wimbley is not on Mario’s level, he’s certainly been a fine pass rusher for the Oakland Raiders the last two seasons, racking up 16 sacks in 2010-11. Now Michael Lombardi is reporting that he believes he will be released today by general manager Reggie McKenzie.
It’s possible that Wimbley returns to the Raiders, and certainly new head coach Dennis Allen would love for his defense to keep such a solid pass rusher. But sacks will earn money and someone should pay Wimbley well for his services. Perhaps the Raiders can even find the money to make it work, but don’t be surprised if the Chargers also check in on their rival.
The Chiefs have the money and could definitely use another pass rusher. While Tamba Hali is among the best in the NFL and Justin Houston came on strong late in the year, the Chiefs still lack enough pass rushers. Romeo Crennel could rotate Wimbley and Houston to maximize their efforts and give the defense new looks. Thus far, however, their free agent focus is rightly on the offense.