Derrick Burgess Can Stay Away from Oakland Raiders Training Camp in Napa

(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

So Derrick Burgess wants to hold out and not report to camp? Awesome!

This has been a long time coming, and it's something the Raiders have prepared for since the spring. Burgess was on the trading block around draft time, and I'm sure Al Davis refused to bite on any garbage offers like he did for Randy Moss in 2007.

There is no disputing Burgess' pass-rushing ability can help a team, but what about his run defense? It is truly awful, as the right tackle or tight end constantly throws him on the ground.

I've been on site after site for the last year or so screaming for the guy's departure.  Some even have had the nerve to challenge that idea, as if he can still play at a Pro Bowl level. He is an injury prone, one-dimensional defensive end wanting to get paid because this is his last chancce at a big contract.

I can't really blame the guy for looking out for himself when football is over in a few years. The thing is, Mr. Burgess plays left defensive end, where Greg Ellis will be starting. Ellis is more versatile and plays the run better, so he instantly makes the defensive line more competent.

It is undetermined who the right defensive end will as of now, but most believe second-year player Trevor Scott will take that job.

Burgess reportedly doesn't like going up against the left tackle. So I ask: what role does he really have on this team?

Spare me the situational pass rusher nonsense. Since coming to the Raiders, Burgess' production has slipped dramatically, and it is no wonder the Raiders have drafted a healthy amount of defensive ends lately.

The left defensive end goes up against right tackles and tight ends at times. In the run game, the right tackle is more of the road grader than the left tackle. Franchise left tackles get big money to protect the quarterback's blindside, but having a good run-blocking right tackle is paramount for an offense's success.

What good does a left defensive end do for a defense if he continually gets pushed by the opposing right tackle?

Derrick, it was nice, but your time is up and the writing is on the wall, man. Stay away from Napa and plead for your release or trade.

Both parties will be better off, because Davis isn't budging after making you a starter four years ago. Play out your contract is all Davis will say to you, brother.

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