Travis

Goethel

Francies, 26, appeared in 15 games for the Raiders last season, registering just three tackles mainly as a special teamer. Goethel is best known for his horrendous long snap attempts in a Monday Night Football game last year.

McClain allegedly made threats against Rishard Tapscott before placing a pistol to his head and firing just past his ear during a November 30 altercation. Tapscott further alleges that McClain made threats during a March basketball game, warning that the linebacker would be coming for him “after May 17.” McClain will appeal the ruling, so it’s not clear when his jail term will begin. He can expect an NFL suspension on top of the 180 days in the slammer. Travis Goethel is the leading candidate to step in at middle linebacker should McClain miss regular-season action.

Goethel, a favorite of Oakland’s old coaching staff but also an injury waiting to happen, lined up on the inside at Thursday’s OTA practice. McClain is in real danger of missing significant regular season action, so Goethel is a name for IDP leaguers to keep in mind. He could end up making multiple starts.

According to coach Dennis Allen, Goethel’s injury “looks to be pretty significant.” He has two tackles in eight games this season as the backup to Rolando McClain.

The Raiders must have been sitting on this news for awhile because Cable hopes to have Goethel back next week. He’ll vie for time as a reserve and special teamer when he returns.

Goethel actually won the job out of camp last year, but early-season back surgery sidelined him. Not much of a pass rusher, the 2010 sixth-round pick will have a hard time beating out Quentin Groves without a full offseason to impress coaches.

Goethel, a three starter at Arizona State, saw time in the middle and on the strong side during spring practices. He’ll vie for the backup middle linebacker job while pinching in on special teams.

Goethel will need surgery, ostensibly to repair an ACL tear. The 2010 sixth-round pick had been running as the second-team middle linebacker after offseason indications that he could compete for the starting weak-side job. Goethel should be back to compete for a reserve spot next season. Meanwhile, the Raiders could revisit Lofa Tatupu or even Kirk Morrison.

Rolando McClain’s backup, Goethel will finish 2012 with two tackles in eight games. The 2010 sixth-round pick is under contract for $575,000 next season. He’ll be in a race against time to be healthy for camp.