Significant change is heading the Las Vegas Raiders' way.

Following the release of Derek Carr, it appears that the Raiders are planning to reshape and rebuild the roster in the image of head coach Josh McDaniels. And on the surface that looks normal. But look a bit deeper, and you will see that it is signing a death certificate on the future of the franchise.

"There are rumblings that Las Vegas will reset parts of its roster in the mold of coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported. "It wouldn't surprise if the Raiders trade or release a few veterans as a result."

Carr may be gone, but that doesn't elevate Las Vegas' cap situation. There just isn't much cap flexibility surrounding the other highest-paid players on the team. Maxx Crosby, Chandler Jones, Kolton Miller, and Davante Adams would leave more than $20 million in dead cap if they were released.

Additionally, Hunter Renfrow has a $13.1 million cap hit and would leave $11.7 million in dead cap if he was released.

Money problems and McDaniels problems

Las Vegas needs to save money where they can if they want to upgrade a team that was a major disappointment in McDaniels' first season. And that is a question in itself. Molding a team in the image of McDaniels, a coach who managed to take a playoff team and steer them to a 6-11 record, could be a disaster.

It was reported during the season that Las Vegas tossed the idea of firing McDaniels around. Instead, the organization let Carr fall on the sword. Now, Las Vegas is doubling down with its coach and choosing to remake the team in his image — an image that hasn't led to very many wins in his career.

Giving McDaniels everything he wants regarding roster construction is a fast track to mediocrity. And mediocrity in the NFL is a death wish. The Raiders don't seem too concerned about that now, but they will be later.

Related Las Vegas Raiders reading 

"Raiders take next step to reload in 2023." 

"Raiders may not skip can't-miss QB prospect at pick No. 7."

"A possible QB option for the Raiders holds familiarity."

Feature image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports