Having already racked up more than $1.5 million in fines after sitting out the first two preseason games, Oakland Raiders star Khalil Mack’s contract impasse promises to extend into the regular season.
At least, that’s the word on the street according to CBS Sports NFL insider Jason La Canfora.
“Barring the Raiders suddenly reversing course and engaging on a legitimate contract, there is no way this All Pro will be with the team when the regular season begins,” La Canfora noted.
It goes without saying that Mack is not happy with the Raiders’ stance under first-year head coach Jon Gruden, who has pretty much taken over the general manager duties from Reggie McKenzie.
While Gruden attempts to sound positive in a public setting, Mack and the Raiders have not had contract talks since February. The further this thing plays out, the more contentious it’s going to get.
As La Canfora noted, Mack will have to report at some point prior to Week 10 in order to gain a year of experience as it relates to his contract. But now, it’s an open question whether he’ll report at any point early in the season.
All of this has led to speculation that Oakland has put Mack on the trade block. If he is still away from the team come Week 1, a trade becomes more of a possibility. That’s for sure.