Much has been said regarding the rumors that have swirled around the Raiders this offseason. Let’s take a break from the annual firestorm and take a look at the Silver and Black from an X’s and O’s standpoint.
Offense
While JaMarcus Russell gained valuable experience under center in 2007, the fact that he missed his entire rookie training camp can not be ignored. His progress from year one to year two must be measured accordingly. Russell will continue to experience growing pains and make mistakes as a result.
His focus will be on making smart decisions with the football. Familiarity with the offense will help; look for Kiffin to encourage his young quarterback to utilize his tight end and running backs in the passing game to ease the pressure, while showcasing his arm strength deep downfield on occasion to keep defenses honest.
It is Russells’ ability to improve over last year’s performance that is the most important factor for the Raiders as they head into 2008.
Defense
Oakland significantly upgraded the secondary with the addition of Gibril Wilson at safety and DeAngelo Hall at cornerback. Wilson gives the Raiders a physical presence with sure tackling ability that they have lacked at safety, while Hall will combine forces with Nnamdi Asomugha for an elite man-to-man duo at cornerback.
The Raiders have still failed to fully address their needs in the trenches on defense. Regardless of how much faith they have in Tommy Kelly, they still have major question marks when it comes to stopping the run.
A talented Raiders’ linebacking corps suffers as a result of the lack of production at the defensive tackle position.
Their inability to pressure opposing quarterbacks must be addressed as well. An elite cornerback tandem will not match up with a talented quarterback who is comfortable in the pocket. Despite their ability to match up man-to-man at the corners, if there is no pressure up front the defensive backs will lost the battle every time.
Special Teams
The loss of Chris Carr to the Titans is offset by the addition of Hall. Hall can be used as a punt/kick returner if Al Davis deems necessary.
Before anyone insists that he wouldn’t risk injury to his precious cornerback, consider the fact that Charles Woodson was used as a return man and he will not hesitate to do the same with Hall if he feels that the team needs a spark.
Draft Outlook
Despite his play-making ability, I don’t think selecting Darren McFadden would be the best choice for the Raiders. Justin Fargas proved that he is more than capable of churning out the yardage. With LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes in the stable, and a healthy Michael Bush waiting in the wings, I think the Raiders have sufficient firepower at the position.
If Al Davis insists on going offense, I think he needs to take a long, hard look at Jake Long. While he may not be the flashy/popular choice, adding bodyguards for the investment that is JaMarcus Russell would be an intelligent choice.
I suggest that the Raiders look to bolster the defense and add Chris Long, with Glenn Dorsey and Vernon Gholston as second and third choice respectively.
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6 months ago
I agree, This was well written and thought out article. My only thought is that we might want to look at Ellis as well that man is a beast, and he knows Kiffin from his USC days. Keep up the good writing!!
from 6 months ago
Thanks a lot - appreciate the comments Jfitty
6 months ago
In the first round, you do not draft for need. You draft impact players. If that player can fill a need as well, that's a bonus. You might not need a RB, WR or Dominating D-Lineman but getting that player can make that good or solid position a great position that puts you over the top. We NEED help for the front seven very badly. If we perform like last years' embarassing performance against the run, we will not win anything. Our pass 'D' looks fine. We have a good secondary, our LB's can cover and our line consisting of Burgess, Warren, Kelly and Edwards looks good. The run 'D' is nowhere. Burgess should be kept fresh to rush the passer. Sands looks good on paper. His technique is nowhere and is a non-factor (Millard?). Warren was a nice surprise but next year is next year. If he stays healthy and plays consistantly he is a good addition. Kelly is coming off an injury and I like him him better as a base end and moving inside on passing downs. Richardson gets a pass because he was a rookie but he needs to take the next step. He could not get off his blocks on a consistent basis (Millard?). Our LB's need to be protected to be effective plus we also need a veteran stong side LB who can take on a block and play the run. There alot of IF's on the D-Line regarding the run 'D'. In summary, we need at least one run stuffing DT to keep our LB's protected and I don't think we wan't to count on Sands. So unless we sign someone prior to the draft we will be forced to pass McFadden and take a DL. One option might be to trade one of our CB's for a pick, take McFadden and a DT with the aquired pick. If we have to move a CB, we should move Routt. Washington is better in the slot and that's where either one of them will be playing.
6 months ago
I am really looking forward to watching Russell play this year. Will he make mistakes? Of course, but I was impressed with him overall after watching him in the San Diego game. I thought he played a decent game, especially coming off the performance the week before against Jacksonville. With the fourth pick, I believe they need to take the best defensive lineman available. If Chris Long is there, take him, but I do not think he will be there. They should be able to choose between Dorsey, Ellis, or Gholston, as I think at least two of them will be available. IMO, Gholston may be the sleeper. Elite pass rushers are hard to find and he could become that.
6 months ago
I agree with all of the things said in this article but I have a question regarding this part:
"with Lamont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes in the stable"
You really think we'll retain Jordan? My belief (JMHO) is that he will be cut since he has expressed already his desire to be cut/traded/"get a fresh start". Personally, I want to see what Bush can do and wouldn't mind if we carried three backs. Use J.Far and Rhodes in the first three quarters to build a lead, and then plug Bush in with O'Neal lead-blocking in the fourth quarter to put games away.
from 6 months ago
Popular opinion is that Jordan will be gone. I - for one - thought that Jordan was a great addition and ran hard until he was beset by injury, and would advise the Raiders to keep him if possible.
6 months ago
Do you really think either of the Long's will be there? We have a better chance at Dorsey or Ellis. If Al would sign Grady Jackson and having Kelly / Sands next to him we should be able to plug up the middle. If our LBS/Safeties can take care of the outside contain then we should be able to stop the run. If Al can swing a couple trades to pick up either 2nd or 3rd round picks then we can pick up another DT and OL there (plenty of depth in draft for both) . So draft McFadden and team him with Fargas and Bush. That way we can have a pretty good defense and a really good offense.
from 6 months ago
No telling what will happen on draft day - I think Bill Parcells will pull the trigger on Chris Long, but will trade down if a good deal presents itself. No one expected Quinn to fall so far, thats why the draft is so much fun.
6 months ago
Still stand by the fact that I think Micheal Bush will be the starter come opening day.
from 6 months ago
I hope to see Bush get significant playing time early on in 2008. I think as long as they bring him along slowly and keep him healthy - he will be a beast. I think it may take him significant playing time to find himself again, and I think when you consider the nature of his injury, it will take at least a year before he is truly healthy. If he can log playing time for a full year and stay healthy, he can get back into football shape, get used to taking hits, as well as leave the injury behind him from a mental standpoint, so he's not focusing on it. Getting back on the horse will help him to put the injury behind him. I think selecting him was one of the smartest moves the Raiders have made in a draft for a long time.
6 months ago
With all the money going out this year, can we really afford a #4 pick in the 1st round without letting go of some quality players ?
While I like what the RAIDERS have done so far, I'm always looking for depth due to the injury bug that has pleagued us in past years and sabatoged our other wise productive seasons.
I do agree L. Jordon must go, not so much because of his desire to be let go, but because of his lingering back problems.
So is Andrew Walter our saviour in case JR goes down ? Geeeezzzzzzzz I like him too but we all know he has to be protected, else games over, at least JR can run. LOL
from 6 months ago
I think it was taken for granted that McCown would be back.
I wouldnt judge Walter too harshly. He played in a system where the coaching staff was desperately trying to make Al Davis happy by going deep despite the fact that the offensive line couldnt hold their blocks at all - much less for a seven/nine step drop. Look for them to add a veteran for depth post June cuts.
6 months ago
With all the money going out this year, can we really afford a #4 pick in the 1st round without letting go of some quality players ?
While I like what the RAIDERS have done so far, I'm always looking for depth due to the injury bug that has pleagued us in past years and sabatoged our other wise productive seasons.
I do agree L. Jordon must go, not so much because of his desire to be let go, but because of his lingering back problems.
So is Andrew Walter our saviour in case JR goes down ? Geeeezzzzzzzz I like him too but we all know he has to be protected, else games over, at least JR can run. LOL
6 months ago
Well well well, welcome aboard! Solid takes as usual and a good read. I look forward to more of your takes.
6 months ago
One thing to keep in mind is that our current guys have been able to stop the run completely at times. They are just WAY inconsistant and that falls not just on our Dline. Many times our safeties, LB's, CB's have had opportunity at tackes and have muffed them. If our team as a whole were better at tackling we would be fine...or at least more consistant and not give up so many big runs. Our overall team tackling has suffered for years now so not sure if Rob R and crew are responsible or not. My question then is how much of this is coaching on the basics...tackle, stay in your lanes and don't over pursue, etc etc. With that said, we all agree that Sands and G. Warren have been really good if not dominating...at times. Again inconsistancy, which gets back to practicing correctly all the time and focusing on the basics...like staying low (Sands). So, I am hoping that we are able to coach up what we have to get them performing at their best. This opens up opporunities to grab guys like McFadden. Over time if we are not coached well on the basics then our new talent will aquire the same bad habits. Seems like our Offense is doing well under Kiffen in crew as he seems to really focus on the details. Not so sure about Ryan.
6 months ago
Lets be honest hear Dmac would be a great addition but does he really help where we hurt most in the ability to stop the run? Trade down get more picks take an OL or Dl in the first round trade one of those extra corners and lamont jordan and pick up more picks we need help on both lines depth competition more then we need a running back! You build great teams from the trenches out not the other way around! And if Bush is health we are good at runnign back cuz he would have been a top 10 picks last year!
6 months ago
lame
6 months ago
Has anyone heard any more info on a trade with Dallas with Fab. Washington as part of the deal?
from 6 months ago
Current rumors have the Browns showing some interest in Washington, but there is nothing concrete at this time.
6 months ago
I'll add to the KR/PR job for Hall, and him being too precious. Al used Tim Brown as well as Woodson. Hall will get a chance, and Higgins will get a chance at redemption in this area as well. Good write.
6 months ago
One thing about trading down is that you may get a good player, maybe even a great one....but typically not one that will be big impact right away, let alone 1st year. This is of course not always the case, but you would expect a top 10 or even top 5 pick to play NOW (cept maybe qb). IMO when you trade down you are building for future where as if you take high pick you can utilize asap. We are really not the far off and if these free agents pan out we have most of the tools in place. Remember, every team has weaknesses, but often made up for by other strengthes and consistancy...and they do the basics well.
6 months ago
If the Raider where to take Jake Long I would be completely disappointed in the team !! this is a complete joke and a waste of a pick,I don't know about you but Jake Long is not even going to be a Left Tackle in the NFL so this to me is ridiculous and the Raiders would continue to be killed in the media.They have to take DMac or one of the Defensive powerhouses.
6 months ago
Charles Woodson was NEVER used as a starting return man for kicks or punts. Occasionally he'd get one in if there was an injury or something, but he consistently complained about not being allowed to return kicks. One of the reasons he cited for joining Green Bay was that they promised him he'd be allowed to field kicks. Do your homework!
from 6 months ago
No where did I state that he was listed as a starter, only that Davis was comfortable in using him, and will do so with Hall if he sees fit. You must have inserted the word "starter" subconsciously. Please re-read.
Let's make a deal - I'll do my homework, and you read the article slowly and carefully before you comment.
Thanks for the advice
Paul Kotch
6 months ago
This might be the last year that the raiders get a top ten draft pick, so they better make damn sure they pick the right guy. Oakland has spent a boat load of money on the defence in the last couple of years and still have a problem stopping the run, i think Al thinks he has done enough this year to stop the run and i hope he is right. Fargas had a solid outing before he got hurt and Rhodes pick up where he left off, but both are on the verge of 30 years old, so how much longer can they produce. When a talent like McFadden comes along witch is not very often you better jump on him when you have aging players at RB. I think it is easier to find a solid DT or DE in free agency than it is to find a great running back in the future.
6 months ago
McFadden is this year's version of Reggie Bush. He won't be an every down back and isn't big enough to take pounding between the tackles. Can't pay him big money for part time work. Dorsey could step in and start today for every team out there. The Giants didn't have a runner like McFadden and they did ok with a pretty good defense. We were 6th in rushing and 31st in stopping the run. And who thinks we can get draft choices for Jordon. Take your head out of your butt and realize he will be cut.With his injury bugs I doubt many teams would even consider him after he's cut. Bush would have been a number one back last year except for his injury, let's give him a few carries before we scrap him too. Fabian Washington is the only thing we have to trade that would bring any kind of good pick. 2 or a 3. I think teams wanting McFadden will call us during the draft if he's still there and I think he will be.The Patriots may want him and the Jets would love to have him although they don't have a third round pick in this years draft.
6 months ago
I saw on tv where some guy said he had a long talk with a Raider LB. The LB told the guy that Bush is one of the Raiders best kept secrets and people will sit up and take notice of this young RB. From what was said I guess Bush has really opened some eyes.
As for the draft I think the Raiders have something up their sleeve. I do not know what it is but my gut tells me Al is not finished yet.
6 months ago
Another Raiders article? Don't you guys know there's a war on.....?
from 6 months ago
An excellent point sir - God Bless our brave men and women spreading liberty and fighting for feedom around the world! God Bless America
6 months ago
The Raiders need Dorsey or Ellis. They can mortgage both of their CBs if they have to to get them (exaggeration, but you get the idea). The Raiders suck against the run. Sands is a monster but technically crap and Warren isn't yet proven, although he did play well. They can keep Sands and Warren, but they absolutely need another big plug. While Chris Long is IMO the best player available, Dorsey and Ellis are right up there and should be taken sooner.
The 1st round isn't about need, it's about value... but only to a point. Chris Long is better, but only marginally so, than Dorsey and Ellis. The latter two are still of elite caliber, and given that they also fill a need, should be drafted if possible.
If all three of them are gone by pick 4, the Raiders are in trouble, but I do not see that happening... in that case, I would say Jake Long because DMac will be good, but not an elite runner IMO.
6 months ago
Al should try and trade with Dallas even if he has to do away with fabian and the #4. he spent a lot of money but since its not my money I DONT CARE!!!and won"t talk about it. jordan should be done away with.Rhodes can be gone too. Justin did have an ok yr against a few teams but again just like most of his collge and pro career he was hurt and could"nt finish.Take Mcfadden if he's there but if CHRIS is there TAKE HIM!!!His dad ain't his agent but he may be able to make getting a contract easier than that B.S with Russel last year. It would be nice to win again be hated for new reasons instead of the PAST! HATED DREADED DESPISED!!
6 months ago
I think too many people are concerned about our O-line for reasons that have little meaning. Look at it from this way, the raiders just learned this blocking scheme LAST SEASON! for this reason I do not believe we need Jake Long. Our unit as a whole played much better than any individual on our O-line the entire season. All we can do is wait until we break the Denver Donkeys' backbone week one next season. After that we will know where we are from a blocking aspect.
I also believe D-lineman have to rely more on talent and ability rather than coaching. So if one of these young men in the draft can do what we need to get to the passer/stop the runner, PULL THE TRIGGER BABY!!!! Any of the top 2 DE's or DT's will work for me. Anyone know when we may start blitzing??? Haha
6 months ago
i like the way the raiders are moving so far , thing looking up, i feel that if c.long and dorsey are gone my favorite pick is v. gholston he's the darkhorse here, he could be our version of merriman, now if we can trade down for more picks i'll give derrick harvey from florida a serious look. plus i feel we need another llb.
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