NFL rumors: Raiders plan to be buyers before Oct. 29 trade deadline

The Raiders entered Week 7 with a 3-2 record, and the AFC West is wide open after Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a dislocated kneecap. So you know what that means -- it's time to buy.

With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, the Raiders have a few roster holes that need to be patched up if they do indeed plan to make a playoff run.

While wide receiver would appear to be a major area of need, the Raiders will look to bulk up their linebacking corps and pass-rush stable at the Oct. 29 deadline, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday, citing sources.

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Raiders will be buyers at Oct. 29 trade deadline. Already have called around the league looking for LBs and pass rush help, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 20, 2019

After Vontaze Burfict's season-long suspension was upheld by the NFL, the Silver and Black suddenly find themselves quite thin at linebacker. Tahir Whitehead has been tasked with taking over as communicator, and Nicholas Morrow played well against the Bears in Burfict's absence, but the Raiders still need to acquire another capable linebacker in case they are forced into their base defense.

As for the pass rush, first-round draft pick Clelin Ferrell hasn't been the dominant force the Raiders had hoped. While Maxx Crosby and Benson Mayowa have played well, the Silver and Black need a bolstered pass rush if they plan to stay in the AFC West race.

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Receiver is by far the Raiders' biggest hole, but they've already acquired Zay Jones and Trevor Davis, and unlikely want to part with a top draft pick in order to acquire a top-end talent on the outside.

The Raiders should be able to acquire a quality linebacker and pass rusher at an affordable price. If they're able to fill the holes at linebacker and pass rusher, the Silver and Black could be set up for a playoff run.