Raiders sign linebacker Philip Wheeler to one-year deal

Originally published on SBReport.net on March 30, 2012

Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie finished his busy Friday by adding another piece of need to the Raiders roster.

Linebacker Phillip Wheeler fills the Raiders void at strong-side linebacker (Photo rights to ESPN.com)After trading offensive lineman Bruce Campbell to the Carolina Panthers for running back Mike Goodson, reports emerged on Twitter that the Raiders have signed linebacker Philip Wheeler to a one-year contract.

Wheeler originally announced that he was on his way to Oakland for a visit on Thursday via his Twitter account, and the Raider Nation responded in full force trying to recruit him, which Wheeler quickly recognized:

Philip Wheeler ‏ @Philgood50
Dang Raider Nation ain't no joke. They deep. Lol

Philip Wheeler ‏ @Philgood50
I see that documentary they did on the Raiders fans was real.#RaiderNation seems strong.

Wheeler was drafted by out of the Georgia Tech in the 3rd round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Wheeler has played in 61 games for the Colts, including 24 starts, and has recorded 220 tackles (141 solo), two sacks and two forced fumbles in his four years in the NFL with the Colts. Despite being a part of a porous Colts defense last season, Wheeler was considered one of the strong points as he recorded 84 tackles in 13 games played (11 started).

The signing of Wheeler fills a void at the strongside linebacker position that was left vacant with the departure of Kamerion Wimbley. While Wheeler is not considered as strong as a pass rusher, he does excel at stopping the run, something the Raiders have been needing for quite some time.

Filling the void allows McKenzie to fill depth at any position now that most needs have been filled. McKenzie will be able to go ahead and draft the best player on the board without being restricted due to roster needs.

“We’re excited to add another veteran to complement our talented linebacking group,” said Raiders General Manager Reggie McKenzie. “He gives us a lot of athleticism and versatility. He’s a player that can do a lot of things.

Terms of the deal have yet to be released, but it marks the third defensive player to sign a one-year contract with the Raiders who signed cornerbacks Ron Bartell and Shawntae Spencer to the same number of years.

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