Survey: Raiders spent big

May, 1, 2012
5/01/12
5:05
PM ET
According to a survey compiled by ESPN The Magazine, the Oakland Raiders are the second-highest paying NFL team behind the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Raiders are the 80th highest-paying team in the world and the Steelers are the 75th highest paying team in the world based on the 2011 season.

The survey encompassed 278 teams,14 major pro leagues, covering seven sports, spanning 10 countries. The salary numbers are calculated from an average of base salaries among players.

All the Raiders got for being the second highest-paid NFL team in the league was an 8-8 record. It is another reminder why new Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie had to cut several players and restructure several other deals. The late Al Davis spent wildly as he unsuccessful tried to buy a championship in his final years.

Expect the Raiders to be significantly lower on the list next year. This survey also struck me to what a bargain the NFL is. The league is a cash cow, but the highest paying team in the NFL is only No. 75 in the world?

In other AFC West news:

In an Insider piece, Mel Kiper thinks Denver will get an immediate impact from defensive tackle Derek Wolfe and running back Ronnie Hillman.

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