Does the Oakland Raiders' Fountain of Youth Equal a Bright Future?

The Oakland Raiders have many early picks in the NFL Draft over the past few years. During these seasons, people were not happy that the Raiders were playing so poorly. Looking back, were a few rough years worth a possible rebuilding of a respectable franchise?

The latest young superstars of the Oakland Raiders come from the offensive side of the football. JaMarcus Russell, Darren McFadden, and Darrius Heyward-Bey are all first-round picks. Robert Gallery is also a first-round draft pick.

Aside from these guys, there are defensive leaders like Thomas Howard, Nmandi Asomugha, and newly acquired Richard Seymour. 

The rebuilding process for the Raiders was a long one, with many disappointing seasons. Is now the time for hope in Oakland? 

Can JaMarcus Russell establish himself and one day lead these guys to a championship? Can Zach Miller stay a consistent tight end and catch 80 balls every season?

Oakland has many questions to answer, but the good news is that they have plenty of time to answer them.

No one can expect a 13-3 season this year, and a .500 winning percent would be great compared to the last few years.

Oakland is back to being a contender instead of a pretender in a division that has gradually weakened over time.

Raider fans stay faithful; Oakland is back on the uprise. 

The young have talent, and they will grow into veterans.

Raider Nation: Prepare yourselves for a change, and be ready for an offensive explosion in the years to come.