Nick

Roach

Signs of human activity in Oakland. Supposedly drawing interest from over a “half-dozen” teams, Roach could man the strong-side in Oakland, or perhaps even replace Rolando McClain in the middle. Oakland is Roach’s first known visit.

Roach missed all of 2014 with a severe concussion. He reportedly still experiences headaches and isn’t expected to be cleared for next season. 29-year-old Young is recovering from October ACL surgery.

Roach suffered a concussion in the Raiders’ third preseason game and hasn’t played since. He was finally sent to I.R. earlier this week. Roch continues to struggle with vision and balance. But after talking with multiple specialists across the country and in London, it’s believed he’ll be fine well in advance of the 2015 season. Roach, 30 next June, is a big part of Oakland’s run defense.

Tafur ran the rumor by GM Reggie McKenzie at the Combine. “That decision is up to Nick and the medical staff,” McKenzie responded. “I am not going to rush him to play when mentally he’s not ready.” Roach was a high-impact run defender when healthy. He went on I.R. with a severe concussion last preseason.

Whereas old Mike ‘backer Rolando McClain couldn’t play on passing downs, the Raiders believe Roach can excel as an every-down player. “He’s kind of taken on that role and really has a passion about leading that team,” Allen said of Roach. “With his athleticism ... he’s got some things that he can do from a coverage standpoint that lends some flexibility to us.” IDPers take note.

Roach was a valuable utility man for Chicago, capable of playing the strong side, middle and special teams. He started 14 games a year ago, finishing with 66 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble and four pass breakups. The Raiders likely see the 27-year-old former undrafted free agent as the replacement for headache middle ‘backer Rolando McClain. Roach’s departure could put a sense of urgency into the Bears as they negotiate with free agent Brian Urlacher.

After filling a variety of roles for the Bears, Roach was signed to replace Rolando McClain in Oakland. There’s plenty of IDP upside here as McClain was able to average 6.1 tackles per game in the role over the last two seasons. Roach doesn’t pack the same type of punch at just 234 pounds, but can get sideline-to-sideline quicker.

Roach has missed the first three games after sustaining a concussion in the preseason. Raiders beat writer Vic Tafur said Roach looked like he was doing more in practice, which is a positive sign. However, it’s expected that Roach remains sidelined for the Raiders’ Week 4 contest against the Dolphins in London.

Roach missed Oakland’s first four games after suffering a concussion in the preseason. He played every defensive snap for the Raiders last year, but is still dealing with symptoms and wasn’t going to gain clearance to return. Roach is due a $2.8 million base salary next season and signed through 2016.

It’s a big, underrated loss for the Raiders, especially against the run. Miles Burris and Kaluka Maiava will try and fill Roach’s shoes, but both players are below-average talents. Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory get matchup boosts.