McClain back to active roster, but questions remain

Originally published on SBReport.net on Dec. 11, 2012


The Raiders announced four significant roster moves on Monday including the activation of linebacker Rolando McClain off of the suspension list.

The move puts the McClain back on the active roster, but questions still remain as to how much playing time he will receive (if any), as well as how long he will remain on the team.

To little surprise, McClain is listed as the second-string middle linebacker on the Raiders’ depth chart released this week. It wouldn’t be surprising if McClain remains on the sideline until Reggie McKenzie can figure out what to do with the disgruntled linebacker.

While Omar Gaither, McClain’s replacement, has not displayed anything special, McClain has struggled throughout his tenure in the Silver & Black.

McClain is expected to meet with head coach Dennis Allen upon his return from Texas, where he is attending his father’s funeral.

In addition, the Raiders also announced the promotion of cornerback Chimdi Chekwa from the practice squad, as well as the releasing of fullback Owen Schmitt and cornerback Ron Bartell.

Bartell got benched against the Denver Broncos last Thursday in favor of Phillip Adams, who earned recognition from Allen for his play. Allen stated that Adams would be seeing an increase in playing time due to his recent strong play.

It is likely that McKenzie and Allen want to see what they have in Adams for the remainder of the season to see where they stand at the cornerback position.