Buzz: McNabb, Owens, Rice on Raiders’ Radar

Will Donavon McNabb and Terrell Owens reunite in Oakland? (Image courtesy of Al Tielemans)

The Oakland Raiders will pursue free agents Donavon McNabb, Terrell Owens and Jerry Rice, according to an anonymous tip.  Oakland is looking for “the final pieces” to make a Super Bowl run.

“We feel that with these players, we would instantly become Super Bowl contenders,” said Raiders Owner Mark Davis on Saturday evening.  Davis pointed out how the Denver Broncos were viewed as Super Bowl contenders after signing a big-name veteran in free agency.

“If you look at what Denver did — they brought in one has-been who was a big deal during his prime and look at what everybody in the media is saying,” said Davis.  “We’re going to do the same thing for our fans.  The only difference is, we’re going to triple what Denver did.”

By “tripling what Denver did,” Davis is referring to bringing in three veteran free agents.  Those players haven’t played professionally since 2011 (McNabb), 2010 (Owens) and 2004 (Rice), but quarterback Peyton Manning also missed all of last season, Davis noted.

“Manning missed a season, T.O. missed a season and McNabb played last year.  And we all know Rice could put on the pads today and play better than most wide receivers in the game.”

Davis said the three players would provide veteran leadership and a “family-like” atmosphere in the locker-room.

“I want the Raiders to go to war together as a family.  Rice and Owens were teammates together in San Francisco and McNabb played with Owens in Philadelphia.  Obviously bringing in guys that developed great relationships as teammates earlier in their careers would help our teams’ comradeship.”

Stay tuned as we continue to cover this developing story.

(Update: April Fools!)