The Raiders were in need of tight end depth, especially in pass protection in the run game. They filled that void on Tuesday afternoon.
The Raiders agreed to terms with former Buffalo Bills tight end Lee Smith on a three-year contract worth a total of $9.1 million, according to an NFL source.
Smith is primarily a blocking tight end, with a solid track record of success in that arena. The 27-year old stands 6-foot-6, 265 pounds and has been an effective starter for the Bills over the past two seasons.
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A solid blocking tight end is a must for new offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave, who values a steady power-rushing game. Smith offers a decided upgrade over Brian Leonhardt, who was the Raiders’ blocking tight end in 2014.
The Raiders are still after tight ends in free agency. Cincinnati tight end Jermaine Gresham is schedule to visit the Raiders’ facility in Alameda later on Tuesday. The team is hopes to sign him to a contract before he leaves town.