Todd McShay seems like a good writer for ESPN. He's been there for about 10 years, and it can be argued that he's going to replace Mel Kiper, Jr., once the "old man" moves on (to Fox Sports).
As a member of ESPN Insider, I love checking out what both Kiper, Jr. and McShay have to say about mock drafts for the upcoming NFL Draft on April 26-27th. They're going to be wrong about a lot of their picks, but at least Kiper, Jr. got someone one right.
That man is Darren "Run DMC" McFadden, who is going to be an unequivocal force to be reckoned with in the NFL. Did we not just see this man among boys run the fastest 40 time in years?
McFadden is clearly the best prospect in the draft, and it would be foolish of any one team to skip on picking him. That goes for the Dolphins, Rams, and Falcons, who clearly have good to decent running backs. Don't be afraid to draft McFadden, who will reap awards the likes of which Jake or Chris Long could only dream.
Going back to McShay, he seems to think that the Raiders will draft a defensive tackle, namely Glenn Dorsey of the LSU Tigers. This is where the article becomes a Def Jam Comedy Hour, because McShay would be bringing down the house right now with this talk of drafting any defensive player for the Raiders.
This is the same organization in Oakland that saw fit to give Tommy Kelly and DeAngelo Hall tens of millions in guaranteed coin. Believe it when I say that Oakland would do a disservice to its loyal fans if they go another direction and get somebody to protect the line.
Don't laugh when you see the Raiders line-up. Laugh at the execution (aka playcalling) by Lane Kiffin, who seems to forget that JaMarcus Russell was put on this earth to throw the long ball and not dink-and-dunk pass plays.
Getting McFadden would be a huge complement to Justin Fargas' power running game, and would only instill confusion to the other teams as they prepare for the running AND passing games from Oakland for the first time since Charlie Garner was around.
The Raiders don't win much, but I believe strongly they're on the verge of the playoffs and more by drafting McFadden.
I think the other three teams before them would be foolish not to draft McFadden, but just like McShay and Kiper, Jr., they'll find ways to slide away from a supposed problem child of a player.
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6 months ago
Don't be surprised if Jerry Jones trades up with the Falcons (to pluck McFadden ahead of the Raiders) . The Dirty Birds are in full blown rebuilding mode. This way the Falcons could get a quality corner back late in the first round (this is a CB rich draft) to replace Hall, AND a potential franchise QB in Flacco. It's less risk, and less costly than taking a big chance on Ryan for the Falcons.
from 6 months ago
First of all I believe you forgot that the Raiders drafted Michael Bush last year, and with Fargas' re-signation it shows a long term commitment, and he's a hell of a runningback to for that scrappy o-line, although young and developing. Second, they just signed deangelo hall on a major deal, drafting a risky pick like mcfadden, these are the same guys who hailed reggie bush which I don't approve of and still have yet to be proven wrong, the characteristics between peterson and bush are far ones, mcfadden is tall lanky and fast without that fullback bulldozing power that l.t., addai, jones-drew, james, and peterson display. The last thing the Raiders want is a major salary cap loss for someone whose unneeded. With fargas' breakout season it may be similar to the browns situation of drafting quinn when derek anderson emerged. That's too much not needed money for the raiders to spend. Third, they have been near dead last in stopping the run the past 3 years, a huge need for a long time, if they don't get a strong d-line soon after sapp retired this year, they are in for a lot of trouble. It would be committing suicide to spend money where it's not needed, besides with a strong arkansas line that earns all-sec honors, how well will mcfadden bode for a raiders o-line. Point being is that I'm certain the Raiders will draft a DT in this year's draft. It's one of the strongest guaranteed picks by virtue of team need and talent available.
from 6 months ago
I think you are both forgetful of how the Raiders work. Rich, Al Does not trade top five picks. Andrew, our O-line saw much improvement last year with tom Cable, and the fact simply is, we are not trying to Sign McFadden as a replacement to Fargas, but rather as an accomplice to his running style. Fargas will pound it inside, while McFadden wants to break loose on the outside. We just signed two DT, and do not want to pass on McFadden for depth at DT, we would rather have the depth in our running game, seeing how Fargas does get injured easy.
6 months ago
I enjoy reading comments from columnist especially ones that are outside of Raider Nation. What never seems to amaze me is how you all seem to jump on the next big thing, now it is McFadden. Everyone is making the comparison to Adrian Peterson but I think before you do that there are two HUGE things people often fail to mention. One being the large amount of money that Minnesota spent on the left side of the line, two number of times that Adrian Peterson got to the secondary before he every initially even had contact. That is not his elusive running style that is credit to his offensive line and one of the best blocking fullbacks (which is hard for me to say because he was a former Chief Tony Richardson) don’t believe me ask Larry Johnson and Priest Holmes. (Weren’t they pretty good backs to) oh and when did Chester Taylor all of sudden become a bad back all he did was rush for a grand the previous year as well. Stop with all of the next great back crap, we have five backs in the backfield one being Michael Bush who before his injury could have been the number one or two back taken in the draft. The last thing we need is another high draft pick holdout that is going to cost us more money and more drama. The play calling for once was good, insightful and at least kept the defense guess. The problem is execution of the play, mental awareness, and blitz protection. If either Long is there at the pick you take it because Howie knows what it’s like to be a Raider and it a conversation he has had with his son many nights. You take Jake Long to protect your million dollar franchise so he doesn’t turn into the next Ryan Leaf. We spent enough money already.
from 6 months ago
We have a decent fullback.... ie: Justin Griffith.
6 months ago
I agree with anonymous on some of the issues. But there is no way you can pass up a young talented Darren Mcfadden to go along with your young, talented Jamarcus Russell and your franchise is youthful and healthy. Notice I said healthy........to win now means to spend money on healthy players that can produce, not wait til the rust falls off. McFadden and Fargas will kill defensive mindsets together in the freaking backfiel. McFadden can run, catch, and damn throw. WHy would you pass this up when you can shore up the other areas with free agents.........Please Al, don't f&*K this draft up.
from 6 months ago
Because we already have good running backs. That is the least of our worries. I say trade down and get the picks.
from 6 months ago
We have ONE okay Running back. The reason Fargas got the yardage he did last season, is the opposing teams were willing to give up the four yard gains, because we ususally starteed in a 1st and 20 situation.
Run DMC gives us a ring... Dorsey gives us a loaded salary cap with an 8-8 season.
from 6 months ago
greg, are you sure you are a Raider fan? Dominic Rhodes, Justin Fargas and Michael Bush are just ok. Dang inform me of where I am wrong here. Tennessee ate DMC for lunch. Hells no.
from 6 months ago
Bush hasn't played yet. He is rehabbing from an injury.. Dominic Rhodes was good because the line started to come together at thge end of the year. Fargas is good, but cannot play a full season, never has, and never will.
6 months ago
andre, how can you say "al, don't fuck this draft up" when you are suggesting taking mcfadden. so here are just a few reasons the raiders should not take mcfadden.
we have 4 potential starting rbs currently on our roster (fargas, jordan, rhoades and bush) even if we cut jordan that still leaves 3 good backs assuming bush can return to form.
at a time when all DMac had to do was sit back shut up and await a big payday he goes out and injures his foot kicking the sh!t outta some guy at a piano bar (the second such fight he experienced in college)
speed doesn't always translate to NFL success (AL should definitely be aware of this by now)
mcfadden has suspect legs, many analysts think his feet stop moving after first contact.
DMac is probably not the best option at rb in this draft, Mendenhall should enjoy plenty of success at the next level (eventhough nobody is a guarantee). Hell some analysts don't even feel he is the best rb coming out of arkansas.
these are just the reasons that come to mind at this moment, i am sure i will think of a few more as soon as i close this page.
from 6 months ago
how about this. Darren McFadden is faster than all the running backs on our roster.
Now the obvious, Jordan will be gone, Fargas will get hurt around week six, Bush still hasn't showed up to play, so we have rhodes to carry our load on Offense.
If it comes down to this, there is only one player in the draft that can help us win....
And he doesn't play defense.
from 6 months ago
greg, the last time I respond to you. Didn't Dominick Rhodes run for over 100 yards against SD? Get off the DM kool aid man!! DL first.
from 6 months ago
Old Raider Fan.. um how should I put this.. We ARE NOT taking a defensive Lineman. If it is not chris long. We ARE taking McFadden. He is a solid number one pick. We have the cap space for him once Jordan is released. You are the one who needs to be asked of whether or not you are a real raiders fan. You should know how Al Davis picks. BUT YOU DON'T. and look how much improvement we have already made to the Defense this offseason. It is time to pick up a young back that can grow with JaMarcus.
You should change your name to Over Rated Fan.. You obviously do not know how this team works. I understand a lot of people don't like this pick. I would rather see Chris Long, but I know what we WILL do.
Stop fantasizing.. Your picks would be great, but it is not what we WILL do....
6 months ago
andre, how can you say "al, don't fuck this draft up" when you are suggesting taking mcfadden. so here are just a few reasons the raiders should not take mcfadden.
we have 4 potential starting rbs currently on our roster (fargas, jordan, rhoades and bush) even if we cut jordan that still leaves 3 good backs assuming bush can return to form.
at a time when all DMac had to do was sit back shut up and await a big payday he goes out and injures his foot kicking the sh!t outta some guy at a piano bar (the second such fight he experienced in college)
speed doesn't always translate to NFL success (AL should definitely be aware of this by now)
mcfadden has suspect legs, many analysts think his feet stop moving after first contact.
DMac is probably not the best option at rb in this draft, Mendenhall should enjoy plenty of success at the next level (eventhough nobody is a guarantee). Hell some analysts don't even feel he is the best rb coming out of arkansas.
these are just the reasons that come to mind at this moment, i am sure i will think of a few more as soon as i close this page.
6 months ago
I agree it would be a mistake to take DMac. It would suck to draft Dmac and then WATCH Bush beat him out during spring training! I say we grab either Long if they are there at 4. If both are gone we go with Ellis or Dorsey.
6 months ago
Im completely against mcfadden. What a waste of a pick, look at every run of his, he runs through a 10 foot wide hole and never has to break a tackle and just runs straight ahead. Oh great. We all know thanx to reggie bush, those holes will not be there in the nfl.
Look up: decline of reggie bush>>nfl.
So mcfadden will not get us the tough yards and he will rarely see daylight AND MOST IMPORTANTLY WILL BE TAKING TIME AWAY FROM MICHAEL BUSH, WHO IS BETTER THEN MCFADDEN IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE GAME EXCEPT STRAIGHT AWAY SPEED.
We have 4 rbs (5 if we draft mcfadden), but if you look at the rost we ONLY HAVE 2 TRUE DE'S!!! Burgess and Richardson. Al Davis forbid that Burgess gets hurt or else we're screwed. Thats why WE MUST DRAFT VERNON GHOLSTON. AL LOVES COMBINE FREAKS RIGHT? LOOK AT VERNONS:
37 REPS...4.6 40 TIME...42IN VERT JUMP...THATS A MONSTER!!!
Keep in mind, Burgess always plays over the right tackle, where the qb always sees him coming. We have no one coming from the blind side. If you put the freak Gholston there, who is also pretty damn good against the run (which we need desperately) with the time that the GREAT COVER CORNERS GIVE HIM....
EVERY QB WILL BE MURDERED
from 6 months ago
Ryan, great post and I agree totally. It would help if people actually kept up with our team. They would agree with you too.
from 6 months ago
I completely agree!! GHOLSTON should be the pick.. he is he workhorse we need along the line plus he is interghangelable to play strongside LB where we need help since our LBs are coverage and too small to take on the blocks..this will free them up to bea ble to get hru the line. i dont know y everyone thinks Dmac will be Peterson..hes not at all...we showed last year we dont need a high profile back and still got 6th rushing offense in the league..as much as i loved reggie bush at USC (go trojans) we know speed doesnt translate well in the L..lets not forget michael (the other) bush was a beast in college and now has something to prove since he was shutdown w/o ever gettin a chance to prove he could hang...neither Long will be available at 4...i can only hope we go with GHOLSTON
from 6 months ago
PTown, I agree with you. greg must be an agent for DM or something. He obviously did not watch the Raiders play last year. We have all of the RB we need for years to come!!
6 months ago
Useless article buddy. Dmac would be a bad pick for the Raiders, especially with the depth they already have at RB, and the abundance of good RB prospects in this draft. The best thing the Raiders can do, is draft Long or Ghoulston if they are still around, or trade down for more picks if some team wants to trade up.
6 months ago
Anonymous, the "analysts" you keep referring to is Mike Mayock, & he's the only one that doesn't have Mcfadden as the #1 RB, or the #1 overall pick. I'm not saying he's my first choice, but if he's available my first 2 choices are likley gone, so McFadden or trade down it is.
6 months ago
Does D Mac remind anyone else of a Reggie Bush like back in the NFL? I can't shake this feeling that like Bush he will be explosive, but never be the elite player he will be expected to be.
from 6 months ago
You tell them Jared. I agree. ^^^^
6 months ago
One thing I'm wondering on, if not for the sake of creativity, and if the Cowboys try to trump the move for McFadden, what if the Raiders traded up, with some of it's spare parts, like a couple cornerbacks, a spare safety, and the number 4 pick, to the fins so we could get Chris Long? After all, Howie's boy seems like a natural fit, and the only reason everyone assumes we go with McFadden, is because Long is gone first. So, you change the conditions, and bypass both problems.
Either that, or it becomes a three way trade. We trade McFadden to the Cowboys, the Cowboys trade us a deal to land Long, and the Dolphins get a ton of picks.
Someone call Parcells, and see what his price would be. Can you imagine Al Davis and Parcells in the same room fighting? Al's wicked with a walker.
from 6 months ago
A smart GM would probably trade down in the Raiders case. There is rarely any value in trading up. The Raiders seem like a team that is in rebuilding mode and there is no better way to do that then increase the amount of draft picks available. There is never a sure thing in the draft. Some round 6 picks end up turning into better players than round 1 picks. Ted Thompson, the GM of the Green Bay Packers inherited an aging and salary cap troubled 4-12 Packers team in 2005 and turned it into a 13-3 team by increasing the amount of draft picks by trading down. Half the roster is made up of draft picks from the last 3 years. The more players you pick the more players you can look at and analyze. Tom Brady was a Round 6 pick. Terrell Davis was a round 6 pick. You never what kind of players you can find in the later rounds. A pick in the Top 5 will cost the Raiders dearly and you never know if that player will turn out to be a bust. I think it would make sense if the Raiders traded down into the middle or end of the 1st round and picked up additional draft picks.
from 6 months ago
We are done rebuilding, all we need now is one more explosive player. Imagine what the NCAA would have looked like if Run DMC was to play with JaMarcus in LSU??? Three-peat anyone?
from 6 months ago
greg, I thought I was done with you. Did you really say that we are done rebuilding? What planet do you live on?
from 6 months ago
Right here in the Raider Nation Scooter.... Now we don't need any more defensive players this year. It IS McFadden...
6 months ago
I agree with anonymous, there is no NEED for McFadden !! All the Mac lovers have him an instant All Pro or MVP based on what ? For all those who like Adrian Peterson (WHEN he's healthy) as a comparison, I have another name for consideration - Reggie Bush (even MORE hype than McFadden). How's that going for the Saints ? Considering the Raiders use of zone blocking, EVERY ONE of the running backs they used last year (Jordan, Fargas and Rhodes) looked great. Subtract Jordan, add Bush, and running back is probably one of the deepest positions on the team !! McFadden may well become another AP, only time will tell, but at THIS point in time, the Raiders have many other slots to fill, in particular LT and DT. Anyone remember the Chargers blowing by Sims in the end zone, drawing a bead on JMac ? As a rebuilding team, I don't believe the Raiders have the luxury of drafting the best player available, unless it is a position of real NEED. Personally, I hope an arrangement can be made to trade down for more picks, perhaps trade some available players (Washington, Schweigert ??) for a couple more and we'll be a lot farther along the road to the playoffs than we would be with McFadden. As always, this is just another opinion. Only Al knows for sure.
from 6 months ago
Great post Snake. I agree totally.
6 months ago
I strongly believe it wouldnt be a 'mistake' to take Mcfadden, although i do believe it wouldnt be the correct desicion. Its kind of disheartning that the Raider Nation has already forgotten the way Fargas puts it on line for us each Sunday. He is the prime example of what type of players we need on this team. Not to mention, D-Rhodes and what he showed us what he is capable of accomplishing like he did in the last 3 games of the season. I say if C.long isnt there, trade the pics down so we can try and get two low first rounders rather then 1 high one. They wont take Mcfadden.
from 6 months ago
Andres, good post and I agree with you too. ^^^^
6 months ago
I agree with Andres, with all the money we have spent so far, I would trade down and get two low first round picks, kind of a 2 for 1 deal. I'm still not sold on our O-Line as it stands so far either. We arer going to need quality depth at our O and D Lines.
from 6 months ago
I agree that the Raiders best move would be to trade down and get additional lower picks. I doubt they would get two 1st rounders in this year's draft because the Cowboys are the only team with two 1st round picks in this years draft. It would most likely be a 1st and 2nd round pick. There are rumors that the Cowboys really want McFadden so you never know it could work. I don't think the Raiders can afford a #4 overall pick, with all the money they spent this year.
from 6 months ago
THE KRAKEN and Chris, watch out common sense does not work on this blog. LOL!!
6 months ago
I can see us trading down but with all the signings on defense, I don't see us passing on Mcfadden. With the exception of Fargas, we really don't have a solid back up that can eat up yardage like he can, plus it would bring us back the Weatley/Garner backfield that was really hard to stop. Combine that element with a deep threat, it will be very hard to defend.
from 6 months ago
Thanks, at least there is one other intelligent mind in this comment bar..
6 months ago
How do you pronounce that?.... "Davey Paniagua" I guess it doesn't matter, with garbage articles like this, he won't become a household name. Clearly he has no clue about the Raiders team and their draft needs. Yeah, McFadden had an impressive 40 time, wow. big deal. Did you forget who the Raiders drafted last year? Before his senior year injury Bush was the talk of the tape = he's recovered and will be a RB beast this season - like the QB, Bush had a quiet season but will burst out with talent this year. How quickly you forget DP. Did you also forget they just threw money at Fargas who had a monster year last year? Did you forget that they resigned D. Rhodes? Yeah, so they really need a RB..... I'll stick to reading McShay's articles, someone who does know what they are talking about.
from 6 months ago
I stand by my decision. Darren McFadden is better than Rhodes and Jordan combined. Is Bush even healthy? Fargas and McFadden together would be like the Bush/McAllister combo, but even better. It's high time the Raiders get a big-time prospect on offense. The defense is solid, with exception to the run which is going to get better soon. Thanks for reading.
from 6 months ago
Davey, you can stand by your decision. I respect that, but most Raider fans do not agree. We have 3 RB who can do the job already man. What, how can DM and and Fargus be the Bush/Mc combo? Wow, that is a reach. Mc is a dominating RB while RB is a speed guy. Fargus is speed and so is DM. Bad analogy there. We still need a DL and a MLB who can bring the wood.
from 6 months ago
Do not agree, or want to cry because they know its gonna happen... Are you gonna be the only guy "AT" the draft with his head hung low when thery announce the pick... Get over it, we spent our money on D.. If we are "rebuilding" still that is even more reason to take McFadden, because we will see how good both lines are this year, and then we can address it next year... There are still free agents that can add depth if thats what your worried about.
6 months ago
TRASH ARTICLE.... FARGAS RHODES BUSH all 3 together are cheaper than what Mcfadden would cost and besides that we will not pick him. We are looking at a DT\DE in the draft depending on who is there when we pick so stop writing this trash.
from 6 months ago
I respect your opinion, just wanted to say that the Raiders would be better off getting the best player avaiable, as opposed to another DT. Thanks for reading.
from 6 months ago
We are not taking a DT or DE, unless Long is available, Read, watch, and listen. AL works in his own world, and right now we believe more than ever. He will NOT trade down, he WILL take the best player available at this point, who seems to be Darren McFadden, this is not a crap Article, it is the truth, based on knowledge of how the team works.
6 months ago
i agree that RB is not our greatest need right now. But who are we to think that Al Davis will ever trade down a number four pick?? bottom line, he won't. he wants an impact player at whatever position the raiders end up drafting and therefore will not sacrifice this chance. I think he'll be tempted by DMac but go with someone like Gholston out of immediate need to help the D
6 months ago
"Did we not just see this man among boys run the fastest 40 time in years?"
No, we didn't. We saw Chris Johnson run the fastest 40 since they started using electronic timers.
6 months ago
Any of the consensus top four defenders is better than McFadden. We even have Joe Echemandu at RB, he was ripping through the zbs in pre-season and we didn't even have space to keep him. Now back with us, he will take Jordan's place on the roster and that will be that. Al will only take McFadden if Jerry Jones makes him too sweet an offer in trade. If there is one thing burning through the cobwebs in Al's lid, it is the Giants D-Line thrashing the tuck patsies down after down. I bet we take Gholston.
6 months ago
What is the deal with all these draft wonks that seem to have forgotten Oakland has Michael Bush on their roster? Can we at least see what he's got before spending $40 million on a #4 overall pick at RB? Never mind that Fargas and Rhodes are in the house as well. I agree with taking a DE or DT 1ST round.
from 6 months ago
Joe, a true Raider fan who knows the needs of the team and not dreams. We need a DL or MLB bad.
6 months ago
We were 6th in rushing last year, and 31st against the run. Will McFadden really make a difference? I don't think so. WE NEED DEFENSE.
from 6 months ago
Yup despite not being a Raiders fan, I agree. Fargas ran for 1,000 yards last year without starting all 16 games. He will be a decent feature back for the Raiders, so what else do the Raiders really need from the RB position. The Raiders defense is absolutely horrible so they really need to upgrade the D.
6 months ago
so if this dont make you think what will we are set at rb and have the qb with the strongest arm in the league TRADE the 4th for "85"
from 6 months ago
I was talking about that yesterday with a couple of raider heads...
6 months ago
Ohh lets not forget that the fine folks that engrave the hisman had to throw the one that said " michael bush" only due to injury
6 months ago
Every single on of this draft scenarios is possible. The problem is getting the trade done. Is Dallas willing to part with their two first round picks this year? or a first this year and a first next year? is this ok with Al? Does Al have plans to send Bush to Cinci with a pick or trade down for 85? or Would he give the #4 overall pick for him when he got burned on that with Minn. for Moss. Will a DE even be there at #4? Is the coaching staff happy with our offensive line? Can you have too many DT?
The problem is we as fans think it is so easy: trade down, DE, DMC, Long, Long, Dorsey, 85.
We all have opinions and we need to wait and see if some of these are even possible.
6 months ago
DT, DT, DT, and OL OL OL. Keep Kiff. That's all thats left to do. Davey, I do appreciate the measure of respect and civility with which you maintain your board. I now apolize for the "how do you pronounce that" quip! cheers, good reading.
6 months ago
In the Zone blocking scheme a 'Star' rb is not needed. Terrell Davis was not the 'Star' coming out of college, yet look at what he did..And not nearly as fast as McFadden, but much bigger. D. Rhodes and Fargas are very fast....maybe not as fast as McFadden, but they are fast enough to break long runs. The problem we had last year was that no one respected our pass thus corners and safeties broke off early looking for run. Lord knows they did not have far to go as we did not have any receivers to stretch the field either. IMO Rhodes runs every bit as hard and effective as Fargas, but does not seem to take the beatings. Our running game should be even better with another year under the linemans belts. Not to say McFadden would not do well, but he is NOT a proven entity at this point. Our current crop of RB's are proven and they will only improve. Who knows, Bush me flat rock as well...
6 months ago
i put the original "85" comment and I know for a fact that the bay is where cj wants to be. the problem with lazy ass moss is he gave up . 85 wont he lives to score so he can celebrate
6 months ago
depth chart johnson ,walker, curry, carter, higgins
from 6 months ago
I think we should learn from the Broncos. They had great WR, and RB's, however they couldn't stop the Run. Whee did they finish? 7 - 9.
6 months ago
power I or 3 wide with or w/o tight end i dare you to put 8 in the box
6 months ago
and the d is great dont forget that wilson was the g-mens leading tackler for the past 2 years because he can stop the run
6 months ago
am i the only one in Raider Nation who notices Darren McFadden's chicken legs? He has the scrawniest little calves, and his thighs look more like a corner backs. This guy is the next Reggie Bush... Big hype, bigger bust.
6 months ago
DT, OL, Kiffin, another DE wouldnt kill us. Only RB i'd take would be a once-in-lifetime RB, like Bo, and there aint no-one close to Bo. so let's get on with this!! Lets get some big guys to let our small guys do what they can do
6 months ago
IMO, DMac is going to be another Reggie Bush. I feared weapon but certainly not a feature back in the NFL. The best true RB that has the skills to be a feature back in this draft is Mendenhall. McFadden has the body of a WR and he is not going to be able to get tough inside yards in the NFL. The NFL Combine is in serious need of reform. So many Top 10 picks are turning into busts because so much emphasis is placed on the 40 yard dash. DMac basically runs a lightning fast 40 and then bypasses the rest of the combine, while Mendenhall placed in the top 10 amongst RBs in 4 of the events. He ran the fastest 20 yard shuttle, which to me is the most important combine event for RBs. I don't care if a RB can run a 4.3 or a 4.6 40 yd dash, they need to be able to get tough inside yards and accelerate quickly. All the 40 means is how much speed a player has in the open field. 90% of the time RBs aren't in the open field. They are fighting for tough yards. That demands acceleration and leg power. The 20 yard shuttle is the true measurement of quickness and lateral acceleration.
I swear I've never seen an NFL RB with legs as skinny as McFadden's. Look at him. He looks like a WR. He is going to be a bust and whoever drafts will be disappointed. Now don't get me wrong, I think he will be a formiddable situational weapon in the NFL but he isn't going to be a feature back that an NFL team can build their offense around, like Tomlinson or Peterson. He's got Reggie Bush written all over him. A guy that can do several things well but not exceptional at any one thing yet a serious big play threat any time he has the ball. In the NFL a RB that can consistently get 3-4 yards with some 10-20+ yard runs thrown in is more valuable than a guy that always gets 1-2 yards but will break an 80+ yard gain every once in a while. McFadden will be the latter. He doesn't have the power to consistently pick up tough inside yardage but is a threat to break off a huge gain with his speed. But teams would rather be 2&6 than 2&8 most of the time.
6 months ago
mcfadden will be a stud but the raiders need either glenn dorsey to replace sapp or vernon gholston because of his versitility to play end or linebacker in the 3-4 defense if they stay with number 4 pick thats who i would take however id be looking to trade and get more picks dallas could bite to move up for mcfadden though i doubt it since they could just take felix jones instead but more likely a team like the chiefs or ravens could try to move up and draft matt ryan or in the chiefs case even jake long
6 months ago
i think the raiders should try to trade down with a team like the ravens you wouldnt be moving too far down and you could still get a good dt like maybe sedrick ellis from usc and you would likely pick up a extra 2nd or 3rd round pick from the ravens
6 months ago
The whole bases of what happens in this draft depends on the dolphins and what they do if they stay at number 1 and draft matt ryan then this whole draft changes dramaticly
6 months ago
if matt ryan goes #1 then you will have lots of trading up and down cause it would change the team needs in 1st rd of teams like atlanta,k.c,and baltimore if matt ryan is gone then none of those teams could get him and thus would be more willing to trade down
6 months ago
HERE'S THE TRUTH!!!!......
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/14412
this should solve everything
6 months ago
Well your right about one thing... Kiper is correct, the Raiders will draft Darren McFadden... But its just another case of Al Davis dragging this proud franchise and all of its fans down into the abyss. The Raiders were 6th best rushing team in the NFL with quite possibly the least talented offensive line in the league (a credit to Tom Cable for sure). Running back is the only area we are solid. Football is won in the trenches, and its the dramatic dropoff in O-line and D-Line thats taken the Raiders from the NFL's elite to toiling in obsurity. And yet, every year Al just brings in more low quality retreds to fill these crucial positions and shells out mega-bucks for 'skill' position players. I too would love to see Jamarcus open it up and throw the long ball, but you can't do that if you can't pass protect. Do you really think Randy Moss just forgot how to play his 2 years in Oakland? No, they just didnt have the time to throw him the deep ball because whomever was under center was on his back by the time Randy could run his route. Will Javon Walker be any better? Sure, if you can give Russell enough time to get it to him. If the Raiders choose not to trade down, which despite all the needs this 4-12 still has is a move I agree with, than Jake Long is the clear choice. Is Kwame Harris the guy you want protecting the future of the franchise's backside?. If Jake is gone, than Chris Long or Glenn Dorsey are avalible and taking one of them gives a huge upgrade to an area of dire need. The Raiders have the makings of a monster defense with the additions of Wilson and Hall and the return of Tommy Kelly (but 54 mil? really?... i mean we could have had Shaun Rogers AND Jevon Kearse for that money..). Its too late to say im not going to ramble but as much as I want to siy here and right pages and pages of what the Raiders should have done, I will close out by agreeing with you -- McFadden is the best prospect in this draft, far and away the biggest talent and will certainly be the biggest star... but does using a top 5 pick to upgrade the only position currently stable in make any sense? If it does, then if DMC is off the board by #4, we may as well draft Matt Ryan. F*ck it, lets trade up and get both. Im sure Al's thought about it. (BTW, I like the pairing of Hall and Asomugha as lockdown corners, but couldnt we have just traded Fabian for Pac-Man and saved about 70 mil and possibly had a better tandem?... And dont give me character as an excuse, he just shelled out 70 mill for DeAngelo Hall... no offense, but I'd rather see that $$ in Namndi's pocket)
6 months ago
THE TOP 5 ARE ALL GREAT PICKS!
THIS DRAFT SCREAMS DEPTH.
DALLAS OFFERED MIAMI 2 1ST ROUNDERS ANOTHER MID PICK 3 OR 4 AND MARION BARBER.
I SAY WE CAN GET 2 REALLY GOOD PLAYERS AT DALLAS'S SPOTS LATER PLUS BARBER AND INSTEAD OF THE 3RD OR 4TH RECENTLY RESIGNED FLOZEL THE HOTEL ADAMS!
I WOULD TAKE TAKE BUSH OVER RUNDMC ANYWAY HE IS THE FAR BETTER BACK THEN YOU ADD
2 PRO BOWLERS
2 1ST ROUND PICKS WHICH COULD BE A DT AND A OT OR DT AND WR
IT WILL ALL OPEN UP WITH THIS TRADE!
from 6 months ago
FRANK, watch out you are making sense on this blog. Not acceptable, dave and greg just won't allow it. LOL.
from 6 months ago
Learn about the Raiders history, I would love to see Al make this trade, but the thing is he won't..
Plus Im not sold 100% on McFadden, but I am explaining to the people who are not aware of the thinking that goes on in Al's head. HE will take McFadden, it is a good choice. I WANT CHRIS LONG> for the love of god. and if he is availabe at number four that will be our guy..
I am not talking out of my A+= I am explaining to you all jhow it works...
Its not rocket science.
6 months ago
Trade the pick for the best Wide Receiver in the NFL. Enough said.
from 6 months ago
Raiderfan, didn't we just get Javon Walker and Carter and have Higgins and Curry too. We also have John Madsen. What are you talking about here, honestly?
6 months ago
OLF. I am in agreement with most of your ideas as to the Raiders' needs. However, the one I have to differ on id MLB. I think Kirk Morrison is a Pro-Bowl type MLB. Now, if said OLB, I'd be right with you. Sam Williams is a bust, and Thomas Howard won't cut it as a full time starter. So lets drast either a DE, DT, OLB.
from 6 months ago
Ok, my bad. Good catch there man. Thanks.
6 months ago
fellas fellas. You guys sound so damn ignorant! Fact- we needed a better run stop line. Fact- we have worked on it in the off season problem solved. Fact me needed some talent at wr. Fact we worked on that in the offseason. problem solved. now heres the big one FACT- WE NEED A GOD DAMN PLAY MAKER!!!!!! NOT A AVERAGE TO SLIGHTLY ABOVE AVERAGE RB! FACT- MCFADDEN A HUGE PLAY MAKER! THE RAIDERS WILL TKE HIM AND YOU NAH SAYERS WILL FEEL VERY FOOLISH WHEN YOU SEE WHAT THIS KID CAN DO. obviously you guys never watched any of his college games. And also i dont know if you guys are fimiliar with how the draft works but we Do get more than just on pick.
GO DMC! AND GO RAIDERS!
6 months ago
Yep they will take Mcfadden. I wish Chris Long would be there at the num 4 slot , but he wont, so take the next best player in the draft.There are plenty of good OL, and DL in the 2nd, and 3rd rounds to help the offense, and defence. I just dont see passing on Mcfadden. If anyone has been watching the NfL channel ( the combines)You will see what im talking about when it comes to RunDmc. So watch!
6 months ago
Look I still don't understand all of you above that love the fact that McFadden is a plus for the Raiders.
The first factor is the young man has character issues already_I don't think Davis want to suffer though another distraction after Moss and remember the center that went crazy right before the superbowl several years back. Every year I here these anaylsis McShay and Kiper put the scrap on the Raiders those to got get over yes they have a bad team but I think Davis is realizing it.
Another thing for all the McFadden lovers he is just another overrated bust waiting to happen. Who did well in the drills during the combine and pro-days. Look the NFL is new league not untill he plays a down then we as fans and the media alike can speculate on the feature of his career. I think people forget the stats on Michael Bush when was heathy playing for Lousville. His stats were better then McFadden's. The Raiders do already have a strong back field. They rank 6th in overall last year in rushing without Russel as QB and Bush in the backfield with Fargus. How would a rookie change the rushing attack he is no LT or even Adrien Peterson so stop dreaming. Look at this realistically if the Raiders do select McFadden he will be used as trade bait to receive additional draft picks. Look the last couple of years Al Davis could have selected top notch players though at times the Raiders selected their needs Gallery, Huff and Russell all were needs at the time.
Look people Al Davis will suprise us all...Don't forget just five years before all this mess they were in the Superbowl
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