Tommy

Kelly

Kelly has spent his entire nine-year career in Oakland, but is coming off his worst campaign. His $6.5 million salary was untenable for a declining 32-year-old interior defensive lineman. The move frees up $4.775 million in cap space. CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora expects Kelly to draw interest “pretty quickly,” but that will depend on Kelly valuing himself realistically.

Kelly, 32, recorded 45 tackles and one sack in Oakland last year, starting all 16 games. He graded out as Pro Football Focus’ No. 74 defensive tackle among 85. At 6-foot-6, 300-plus pounds, Kelly offers flexibility to play end in 3-4 looks and rush from the interior on passing downs, although it remains to be seen how much he’s got left. We suspect the Pats guaranteed Kelly little or no money.

The deal includes base salaries of $800,000 (2007), $1.2 million (2008), $1.3 million (2009), and $4.6 million (2010). We had Sands pegged as a sleeper for a team in free agency, but the 6-7/335-pound behemoth will probably get a great chance to push Tommy Kelly to start in 2007.

In a bit of shocking news, the Raiders have actually made a solid personnel move. Henderson’s pass rushing skills are declining but he can still stuff the run at age 31. He’s been a 4-3 lineman for his entire career and there’s little risk here thanks to the one-year deal. He could also play some end in a 3-4 if the Raiders end up shifting that way.

“Old boy choked,” Kelly said. “All he had to do was run it in. He choked, simple as that.” Schaub appeared to have a running lane, but instead tossed a game-ending interception to Michael Huff. Defending himself, Schaub said “I’m not necessarily a guy that’s going to make a whole lot of guys miss in the open field.” Although Tyvon Branch was in position to attempt a tackle, there’s little question running it would have been the higher percentage play.

There was speculation Oakland might install a 3-4 when ex-Packers exec Reggie McKenzie was hired as GM, but McKenzie tabbed 4-3 proponent Dennis Allen as head coach. “We’re going to do what we always do -- run four man,” Kelly said. “I’m just assuming. Heard he’s a guy that mixes it up, so you never know.” We’ll know for sure when OTAs start. Kelly, 31, finished last season with career highs in sacks (7.5) and pass breakups (5), and forced two fumbles.

With Ted Washington and Warren Sapp underperforming, expect to see a youth movement in the Oakland defense.

Cornerback Renaldo Hill was also hurt for the Raiders during today’s game.