Kelly expects release from Raiders RAIDERS

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Tommy Kelly is preparing to be released by the Raiders, ending a nine-year run in Oakland for the defensive tackle. He said he hasn't talked to anyone from the organization since the end of the regular season.

"The writing is on the wall," Kelly said. "The team is going in another direction. I'm ready for the next chapter. ... They're ready, too."

Kelly has two years left on the seven-year, $50.1 million deal he signed in 2008, and his release would save the Raiders $4.8 million against the salary cap next season. He was slated to make $6.5 million in 2013 and $7 million in 2014.

Oakland is already $6 million under the salary cap after restructuring guard Mike Brisiel's and safety Tyvon Branch's deals this week. The Raiders enter an exclusive negotiating window Saturday with 17 of their players who can become unrestricted free agents Tuesday.

Kelly, 32, started all 16 games each of the past five seasons, but struggled at times last year - he had only one sack after recording 14 1/2 the previous two seasons.

"It was frustrating, but I am not going to blame the team or the scheme. I had a rough year. I had a couple of nicks, but I'm going to be all right. I am in excellent shape.

"I had a good nine years. My body is straight, I have my health. ... I'm not sad at all."

Besides Kelly, starting defensive tackle Richard Seymour and starting defensive end Matt Shaughnessy will soon become free agents. Talented backups Desmond Bryant and Andre Carter are also likely to be up for grabs Tuesday.

Kelly said starting defensive end Lamarr Houston and Bryant are ready to take the torch from him and Seymour.

"The young guys are ready," Kelly said. "I did my part in helping bring Lamarr and Des along."

Kelly was reminded that Bryant, the fifth-year defensive tackle, is set to be a free agent.

"Yeah, I know that, but they would be crazy to let him go," Kelly said. "He can play anywhere on the line and he is only going to get better, especially if he is starting and playing more."