Because the Oakland Raiders have a lot of needs and will have up to $70 million in salary-cap room, they will be in an interesting to watch in free agency, which begins March 10.

Yes, general manager Reggie McKenzie reiterated this month the main focus will be building through the draft, but the Raiders are sure to be players in free agency.

Already this month, we looked at some natural fits around the league and some possibilities new coach Jack Del Rio could bring from Denver. As I continue to think about it, one of the offensive players from Del Rio’s old team could be a nice, nice fit.

How would Julius Thomas look in Oakland?

Bleacher Report has reported that Thomas is expected to walk in free agency. The Raiders need a playmaker and have money to play with. Thomas could be worth that money.

Yes, Oakland has Mychal Rivera, but Thomas is a much better big-play weapon and Rivera could still contribute as a No. 2 tight end. Thomas is from nearby Stockton and already knows Del Rio, so he could be intrigued by the idea.

Derek Carr needs weapons, and having Thomas would instantly make Carr and the entire offense better.

I will be discussing free-agent pairings in the next several weeks if they make sense. This one makes sense. That doesn’t mean it will happen, but it wouldn’t shock me.