NFL Rumors: Why Terrell Owens Makes Sense for the Oakland Raiders

Terrell Owens recently worked out with Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer and a few of the team's wide receivers. That has led to speculation that the team could sign the free agent to give them a veteran presence at wide receiver. 

Darrius Heyward-Bey, David Ausberry and Eddie McGee were a part of the workout with Palmer and Owens and the quarterback claimed that working out with the 38-year-old receiver provided an inspiration for the youngsters. Palmer said that watching how hard Owens work gave the younger receivers an idea of what it takes to be an all-time great receiver. 

Owens is currently sixth on the NFL's all-time list in receptions (1,078), second in receiving yards (15,934) and is tied for second with Randy Moss in receiving touchdowns (153). While he didn't play in 2011, Owens was effective in 2010 when paired with Palmer in Cincinnati.

During his only season with the Bengals, Owens played in 14 games and caught 72 passes for 983 yards and nine touchdowns. If he's in shape there is a chance the veteran of 15 NFL seasons could provide a really nice, low-cost boost to the Raiders.

The Raiders drafted Arizona receiver Juron Criner in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft, but after losing Chaz Schilens in free agency, the team might need a solid veteran who could really show the young receiving corps what it takes to improve at the NFL level. 

Denarius Moore, Heyward-Bey, Louis Murphy and Jacoby Ford round out the receivers on the current roster; that is a ton of youth without any veteran leadership.

While Palmer was non-committal about inking a guy like T.O., it would make a ton of sense for the Raiders to bring him in. Offering him a deal at the veteran's minimum certainly couldn't hurt.