Heading into free agency, we expected the Oakland Raiders to spend money. And why not? This is a team that had more than $65 million in cap room and holes to fill. Go get some talent.

But unlike a mismanaged club handing out blank checks and chasing overpriced, fading stars in the twilight of their careers, the Raiders made smart, calculated moves to upgrade a roster being built around a core of young studs. With QB Derek Carr, WR Amari Cooper and pass-rusher Khalil Mack all locked up through the next two seasons on cheap deals, the Raiders have a real opportunity to contend for a playoff spot.