(Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)
With the emergence of young receivers Chaz Schilens and Johnnie Lee Higgins, and Oakland spending their first round pick on speed merchant Darius Heyward-Bey, opposing defenses will not be able allocate as much pass coverage toward Miller this season as they did in 2008.
Miller will also benefit from improved quarterback play this season, one way or another. Whether it is an improved JaMarcus Russell, or the fiery vet Jeff Garcia, Miller can expect better passes thrown his way in 2009.
Future Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez even felt compelled to offer Miller some guidance last season after witnessing him get repeatedly pummeled by opposing defenders due to the fact he was consistently getting hung out to dry by his quarterback all season long. When a longtime division rival like Gonzalez (Gonzalez was a Kansas City Chief at the time) offers a hated Raider support, you know things must really be rough.
The Raiders already sport one the NFL’s most dynamic rushing attacks, showcasing three quality running backs in Darren McFadden, Michael Bush and Justin Fargas. With upgrades to the offensive line coming in form of former Dolphins center Samson Satele, and former Jaguars tackle Khalif Barnes, the 2009 Raiders may finally have enough surrounding talent to allow Miller to perform to his Pro Bowl potential.
Had he played for a better team last year, Miller could have easily joined All Pro teammates Nnamdi Asomugha and Shane Lechler in Honolulu for his first Pro Bowl. If the Cable guy can install the right blocking compliment for his star pass catching tight end, then Zach Miller might need to book his flight for the 2010 Pro Bowl in Miami early.
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