Reports: Raiders add another linebacker

Originally published on SBReport.net on March 15, 2013

Reports have surfaced that Reggie McKenzie has landed another linebacker, this time signing veteran linebacker Nick Roach.

Roach spent the last couple of days talking to the Raiders, and has apparently agreed to terms now.

The signing comes just two days after the signing of Cleveland Browns linebacker Kaluka Maiava.

Like Maiava, Roach adds some flexibility as he has been the Bears starting strongside linebacker since 2008 but adequately filled in for the injured middle linebacker Brian Urlacher for the final four games last season.

Roach has started 59 games in his six year career, including 29 over his last two seasons.

It is expected that Roach has been signed to be the Raiders starting middle linebacker, which would mean the end of the disgruntled Rolando McClain's career in Oakland, which has seemed inevitable. Roach had a total of 31 tackle during his last four games last season, the period when he started as the Bears middle linebacker.

The signing also presents the Raiders with what seems to be their starting linebacking corps: Miles Burris (WLB), Nick Roach (MLB) and Kaluka Maiava (SLB).

Reports have also surfaced that the Raiders are expected to sign Terrance Newman, but it has yet to be confirmed.