Reggie McKenzie to place Rolando McClain on waivers

Originally published on SBReport.net on April 5, 2013

News surfaced Friday that the Raiders front office intends to place former first round draft pick Rolando McClain on waivers.

McClain struggled in Oakland after winning the Dick Butkus award at the University of Alabama, given to the top collegiate linebacker in the nation. McClain was drafted 8th overall in 2010 by the late Al Davis.

The troubled linebacker had legal problems while back in Alabama for his grandfather's funeral in 2011, though charges were dropped after being found guilty on four misdemeanors.

McClain also expressed his frustration last season after being demoted in place of rookie linebacker Miles Burris.

In 41 games with the Raiders, McClain racked up 244 tackles, 6.5 sacks and one interception.

The release of McClain marks the third top 10 draft pick selected by Davis that has been released by Reggie McKenzie. Safety Michael Huff and wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey were released just last month.

McKenzie is the first general manager to take over the position in Oakland since Davis did in 1966.