The expectation remains that the rebuilding Oakland Raiders will eventually cut ties with Carson Palmer and his $13 million salary in 2013.
But the Raiders' thinking might not be as straightforward as has been assumed.
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NFL.com's Ian Rapoport spoke to a Raiders source on Wednesday, asking if the team was willing to hold on to Palmer and that massive salary for another year.
The source replied, "Yes, we're willing ... right now."
That could mean something or nothing, but the Raiders don't have a timetable on the situation. It's feasible the Raiders hold on to Palmer beyond the draft, giving them more time to assess their situation, as well as backup quarterback Terrelle Pryor.
As for Palmer, Rapoport heard the veteran wouldn't be against being cut, which would give him the opportunity to catch on with a team that has a brighter immediate future.
Feel free to speculate if that's been Palmer's strategy all along. This would provide a tidy explanation for why he's reportedly been unwilling to accept a pay cut or restructuring of his deal.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.
