Bleacher Report - Articles by A.J. DeMello

Raiders To Tackle 49ers

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:24:25 -0400

Besides the report(s) of Raiders head coach Tom Cable punching assistant coach Randy Hanson, there are other things going on in Raider land.

That would be a two-day joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers today and tomorrow in Napa. Cable felt the need to extend the practice with the 49ers from one day to two, being that he felt is was very beneficial for the Raiders last year. Going up against someone other then your own team tends to help development too, instead of having guys like Nnamdi Asomugha anticipating a certain route....

Raiders Ready To Play: Players to Watch

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 21:38:37 -0400

The Raiders will finally be taking the field in Oakland for the first time since December.

Fans and players alike are hungry to have the answers to various questions:

Who will get the most reps at running back? Who will take the starting job at middle linebacker? And who will be the two starting safeties come September?

Tonight we can start to piece together the puzzle for how the Raiders have come together and build off of their strong 2-0 finish to last season.

Here is AJ DeMello's list of players and positions to keep an eye on this pre-season:

Read More at TFDS...

Raider Speed = Opposing Defensive Nightmares

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:41:05 -0400

"There are no speed limits on the road to excellence." (David W. Johnson)

One could assume Mr. Davis likes that quote, as proved through the years with his desire of speed and a "commitment to excellence." Although, there hasn't been a commitment to excellence since players like Tim Brown and former NFL MVP Rich Gannon last dawned the silver & black.

Raiders defensive coordinator John Marshall recently claimed that the defensive backfield in Oakland has to be the fastest unit he's ever had. While on the offensive side of the ball they are just as fast, if not faster...

Read More at TFDS

Heyward-Bey The Better Choice After All?

A.J. DeMello — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 23:28:55 -0400

Although the top two receivers taken in this year's NFL Draft have yet to take part in a pro football game yet, one of them has at least been signed and practicing with his team.

That player is the seventh overall pick in April, former Maryland, 4.3, 40, wide-out Darrius Heyward-Bey. Many media news outlets were in disbelief of the Raiders selection , with Michael Crabtree considered possibly the overal best player in the '09 draft...

Read More at TFDS

Oakland Raiders: Uh-Oh, Sanjay Lal Is In Trouble

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 01:05:58 -0400

TFDS' guest writer AJ DeMello sees some trouble brewing with the Raiders new receivers coach.

This after the rather inexperienced position coach got a stern talking to by Mr. Al Davis himself and later another finger-wagging from Tom Cable.

Darrius Heyward Bey picked the wrong time to have a lackluster showing in practice the other night as it was the first appearance at camp for "His Greatness".

And while I am sure no one expects DHB to charge out the gates and look like a star receiver, I am sure that shabby performance didn't help matters. And things don't get any easier from here on out for anyone.

They get decidedly more difficult and more stressful.

Although, I'm sure Mr. Davis has James Lofton on speed dial if he needs it.

But let's just hope it doesn't come to that...

Read More at TFDS

With Derrick Burgess' Holdout Urges, What Are the Raiders' Options?

A.J. DeMello — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 18:53:54 -0400

Things seem to have calmed down a little bit in practice today, as the players settled in and prepared for the full contact on Monday.

The only thing still unsettled is the situation with the Derrick Burgess holdout.

It seemed like an inevitability that he would hold out eventually, considering he has asked for three straight seasons about getting a richer contract and has been turned down every time.

Either the Raiders are waiting to see him play a full healthy season, or the intention from the start was to rent him for a few years.

Either way, he is not happy, and he is not in camp.

So what do the Raiders do about it?

I mentioned in an article a few weeks ago, before anyone knew that Burgess was going to hold out of training camp, that the situation is a win all around. A.J. DeMello has some ideas of his own complete with a few wrinkles thrown in that could cause some good chin stroking...

Read More at TFDS

Raiders Content With Their Defensive Ends

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:54:25 -0400

With all the discontent and uncertainty surrounding the defensive end position for the Raiders, it looks like the Raiders may finally have a group they can feel good about. After the waiving of a certain sixth rounder at the position, it has been said many times that there is simply a glut of possibilities there. And that is a nice problem to have.

Whether it be new player signings, surprising good play from current young players or trades that have not quite worked out, the Raiders have more defensive ends than they know what to do with.

AJ DeMello has his take on what to do with them though. As I am sure we all have some ideas of what we would like to see from that group this season.

Not a Make Or Break Season For Russell, Yet

A.J. DeMello — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 18:39:42 -0400

With ESPN's NFL Live reserving a spot in just about every telecast for a "Will JaMarcus Russell be replaced" segment and every Raider fan in the country wondering about the same thing, it is a hot topic of discussion.

But AJ DeMello doesn't think it should be such an issue. He thinks everyone should just take a breath and give JaMarcus a bit of breathing room himself. To be exact, an entire season of breathing room.

But enough of me trying to tell you what he thinks about the situation, I will let him tell you. Take it away AJ.

Read More...

Can Javon Walker Return to Relevance?

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:17:30 -0400

The title of this article is a question that Raider fans have been wondering for a while now. And while hope springs eternal, that hope has never been gratified with the kind of talents that Javon Walker has been known for in the past.

So, A.J. is the latest to ask the big, lingering question about the mysterious Mr. Walker. Has the answer become any more clear since the season ended or camps have begun? You be the judge...

Read more...

Raiders With Fantasy Impact

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:09:58 -0400

"For all of you Fantasy Football junkies out there who like to get an early start on putting their teams together, A.J. DeMello is here to help. Especially if you are the type that would like to sprinkle in (if not feature) a player from the Raiders roster.

He has some suggestions of who could be a good player to grab in your fantasy football draft. And since it is nearing that time of year, it is time to start making a note of who could be a good steal or wise free agent pick up.

The list starts with a guy that ESPN AFC West blogger, Bill Williamson, calls his breakout player of the year in the division. Then it goes on to other players that may or may not be getting similar press, but should not go unnoticed by the savvy fantasy drafter. In this case: You."

Kirk Morrison Needs To Step It Up

A.J. DeMello — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:47:21 -0400

One of the most overrated players I've seen in Oakland from the buildup of Raider fans over the course of the past few years is Kirk Morrison.

A lot of fans love him, no matter how bad his instincts and tackling on the football field have been. Morrison has been a Raider fan his whole life and acts professionally off the field when talking with the media or being brought in studio for an interview.

He did well the other day when he was egged on by Keyshawn Johnson on Rome is Burning, (filling in) to say the Raiders' draft picks were bad. But Morrison kept his cool and reminded "Meshawn" that a guy such as himself, who was a former third round pick, has proved his worth in the NFL, so guys like Darrius Heyward-Bey and Mike Mitchell can do the same.

Really?

Read more...

Three New Coaches Will Help Cable and Raiders Offense Significantly

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:05:02 -0400

Three new significant hires were made by Tom Cable and company on the offensive side of the ball in order to lift the Raiders offense past mediocrity and into dynamic.

With potential play-makers waiting to break out like Darren Mcfadden and JaMarcus Russell, let's take a look at what these new coaches will bring to the table for the Raiders offense...

Quarterbacks coach Paul Hackett (who has worked with Joe Montana, Chad Pennington, and Rich Gannon) will be invaluable to coach Tom Cable, who will be calling the plays this year for the Raiders as he did last year after relieving former offensive coordinator Greg Knapp of play-calling.

Read more...

Can Brett Favre Lead Vikings to Postseason Success?

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:30:27 -0400

Three consecutive AP MVP Awards, seven division championships, and a Super Bowl Trophy—those are only some of Brett Favre's accomplishments in his 18-year Hall of Fame career.

He holds eight NFL records:

Most career touchdown passes (464)

Most career passing yards (65,127)

Most career pass completions (5,720)

Most career pass attempts (9,280)

Most career interceptions thrown (310)

Most consecutive starts among NFL starting quarterbacks (269 regular season starts and 291 total starts, including playoffs)

Most career victories as a starting quarterback (169)

His last few seasons in Green Bay, before his first retirement and then comeback with the New York Jets, were an indication that Favre's level of play was diminishing.

In 2005, he had 20 touchdowns to 29 interceptions.

In 2006, he had 18 touchdowns to 18 interceptions.

During those two years, talk of Brett Favre's retirement increased. Many critics argued that Favre was slowly weakening his legendary status by continuing to play

2007 was a whole different story. Favre threw 28 touchdowns to 15 interceptions and led the Cheeseheads to the NFC Championship.

It all slipped away in the blink of an eye when Giants cornerback Corey Webster intercepted a bad pass from Favre deep in Green Bay territory.

The Giants won and advanced to the Super Bowl, where they would defeat the New England Patriots.

Favre must have relived that moment over and over. He retired and then chose to come back. The only problem was that the Packers were already building their offense around former first-round pick Aaron Rodgers.

The drama ensued as there was a back-and-forth dialogue between Favre and the Packers until he was eventually traded to the Jets.

Favre led the Jets to an 8-3 record by Week 12, but his shoulder started to trouble him, and the Jets lost four out of their last five games as Favre came up short once again.

Then, he retired again...and now he's looking to make another comeback. It is being reported by a Minneapolis television station that Favre has already signed a deal with the Vikings.

The anticipation to another comeback is over.

He's playing again, and for the Packers' arch-nemesis, Minnesota.

You can bet Favre wants revenge. It will be somewhat sweet for him because he knows Minnesota's offensive scheme to an extent.

Given that Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell was Favre's quarterbacks coach in Green Bay from 2003-2005, Favre should be comfortable in the Vikings' offense.

Here's the question though: Can he not only win, but also get another team besides the Packers to a Super Bowl berth? Or can he get past the first round of the playoffs?

Favre's shoulder must be feeling good, since the health of his shoulder was said to be the basis for his decision. He has a playoff-ready team with the Vikings.

He'll have All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson to take hand-offs to take the pressure off him and vice versa.

He will also have a good set of receivers to throw to in Bernard Berrian, Sidney Rice, and newcomer Percy Harvin (who can outrun just about anyone).

That's a potential All-Star offense to go along with the best defensive line in football. Favre is in a great position to make the playoffs.

The Vikings and Brad Childress are going all in here, much like Eric Mangini and the Jets last year.

If the Vikings come up short, you can bet there will be a similar outcome for Childress.

Circle your calenders for Oct. 5 this year. On Monday Night Football, the Vikings and Brett Favre host the rival Green Bay Packers in what should be one of the most anticipated and viewed games of all time.

Oakland Raiders' Defensive Backs Wait in Anticipation

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:02:41 -0400

In 2006, the Raiders had the second worst year in the history of the franchise (1-13 in 1962) with an awful 2-14 regular season record.

However, there were a couple of bright spots in that season. Nnamdi Asomugha, who is now regarded by many as the best cover corner in the NFL, broke out onto the scene with eight interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. Good enough for Asomugha to earn his first pro-bowl invite.

Former Raiders corner back Fabian Washington even had four picks that season, and that says a lot since he has only registered two since then.

The Raiders middle linebacker Kirk Morrison had two picks that year as well.

Overall, the Raiders were first in the league defending the pass, giving up only 150.8 yards a game through the air. On the ground—well that's a different story.

What to make of it?

The Raiders garnered 34 sacks that season, only reaching 27 in 2007 and 32 in 2008. A once promising pass rush let the Raiders secondary down the past two years.

It's very possible that can change now. The Raiders had 32 sacks last year with two players trying to shake injuries, Tommy Kelly (4.5 sacks) and Derrick Burgess (3.5).

Not to mention, the Raiders' defensive line rotation had been shaky at best as they had more pass rushers than power ends making their way into the starting lineup.

You can't win in the trenches if all you have is pass rushers. Now, that might change a little with the addition of Greg Ellis. Jay Richardson, Greg Ellis, and 2009 third-round pick Matt Shaugnessey look to change that up as they are better-molded to handle the run than the other ends.

All are expected to compete to be one of the Raiders' starting defensive ends. Derrick Burgess has proven to be a force coming off the bench on passing downs, and second year player Trevor Scott looks to do the same if he does not crack the starting lineup as well.

Either way, the Raiders should have their best defensive end core since 2005. At least on paper that is. It's all speculation now as to what they, as well as the Raiders secondary, can achieve.

If your defensive line can collapse the pocket, stop the run, and force the pass, then your secondary will reap the benefits.

Asomugha was thrown at less than 30 times this year, giving up only eight catches with one registered interception. Chris Johnson had three picks taking over for Hall, showing that he can be just as good in terms of tackling and run support as he occasionally made plays at the line of scrimmage, also forcing one fumble.

The Raiders have a great core of corners, but their safeties are still suspect at best (if their defensive line generates a pass rush then they can benefit just as well in due time).

With the NFL's best cover corner in Nnamdi Asomugha, and second-year starter Chris Johnson (who did very well as the opposite corner last year nearly shutting down receivers with his bump and run skill) waiting in anticipation for foolish decision making and forced throws, they look to get back to the best pass defense in the league, if the defensive line can step it up a notch.

No More Excuses Left for Tony Romo and Dallas Cowboys

A.J. DeMello — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 04:11:27 -0400

There are 27 million reasons Jerry Jones could give for why he made Tony Romo one of the highest paid players in the league.

Except the mere fact that Romo has struggled (to put it lightly) when it counts.

In January 2007, when Romo led the Cowboys to the playoffs, he fumbled the snap that could have been a game winning field goal. Although how did no one ask why they sent him out to hold instead of a punter or backup quarterback? That may as well be the coaching staff's fault as well as Romo's for that one.

Romo blew it, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

Romo came back and threw for 36 touchdowns in the 2007 regular season, with a passer rating of 97.4 and added two touchdowns with his feet. Fantasy football players around the world thought greatness, which would continue well into the playoffs.

Not exactly.

Romo threw a game-ending interception in a 21-17 division loss to the Giants to end the Cowboys 2007 season. To top that he has a 0-2 record in the playoffs, a 5-8 record in December, and threw 14 interceptions the last five weeks of the 2008 regular season, with only five touchdowns.

Either Jason Garrett made some mistakes (which some claim), or T.O. was too much to handle for Romo. Sounds like excuses, but both issues were partially part of the problem.

So Jerry Jones cuts T.O., so Romo and Garrett could breathe normal and not have to sweat getting an earful if someone was unhappy. Jones even traded for Roy Williams, who is a pretty good receiver who also is under the microscope in Dallas.

Romo has all the weapons he needs. With a solid running-back rotation (which includes Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice), good protection up front, and big targets such as Witten and Williams to throw to, there should be magnificent things happening on the offensive side of the ball for Dallas.

No more time for excuses. Now is the time for Romo to lead America's team into the post-season. He has the the tools on offense, and has good players on defense (just depends if those players can start playing like a team) to propel them forward.

With a presumed short-leash on Head Coach Wade Phillips, the Cowboys had better get it together before there is a new wave of philosophy and excuses handed out for their misfortunes.

Raiders Add Veteran Presence to Rickety Defensive Front with Greg Ellis

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:19:30 -0400

About two weeks ago, I made the case for the Raiders to sign Greg Ellis. He has reportedly agreed to a three year deal with the Raiders.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but more than likely it's a one-year deal with the Raiders ready to pull the trigger like they did with Kalimba Edwards if unsatisfied.

Only seven players in the NFL have more sacks than Ellis (42) over the past five seasons. Those players are none other than Jared Allen (57.5), DeMarcus Ware (53.5), Robert Mathis (50.5), John Abraham (50.5), Aaron Kampman (48), Joey Porter (47.5), and Dwight Freeney (46.5).

The only questions to ponder would be the same to last year's Greg Spires, who ended up cut last year. Can he be a veteran presence and/or a leader? Does he have anything left?

The good news here is whether or not Ellis produces, he'll push the younger guys, offer up some advice and provide some much-needed mentorship which he has been known to do in Dallas.

Ellis proved people wrong two years ago who thought he was done, as he was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year generating 12.5 sacks (in 13 games) on his way to his first Pro Bowl. Not even at his original position.

Ellis right now rounds out the top ten regarding the NFL's best pass rushers. Can he keep it up though? His only weakness right now is his age (turns 34 in August), since the body obviously will take a harsher toll at this point in his career.

However, the Raiders still have Derrick Burgess. They drafted high-motor ends in Matt Shaughnessy and Stryker Sulak to help the pass rush, along with Slade Norris who they are trying at the SAM linebacker position.

This move could be what sends Derrick Burgess packing or traded. Especially with the notion that he is primarily a pass rusher, which the Raiders could use up and coming second-year end Trevor Scott for who had 5 sacks in limited playing time last year.

The Raiders run a 4-3 scheme, so it would be wise to assume Ellis will probably make his return to defensive end. The Raiders may experiment though, and see where he best fits in since there is no clear cut starter at the SAM linebacker position which has Jon Alston and Slade Norris battling for.

This isn't only a sign that Burgess may not be a Raider for long, but that the Raiders are disappointed with Jay Richardson's progress ever since he was drafted in 2007. It's very likely their hopes were for him to be a big guy who could hold ground against the run while still being able to get after the quarterback.

Now the Raiders have Greg Ellis, who is that mold. Richardson will have to put on a really strong showing in training camp if he wants to stick around or receive exceptional playing time being that he has struggled with his pass-rushing skills and looks to enter his third season as a rotational player unless proven otherwise.

With the Raiders not changing much on their defensive line except drafting a few tweener players, this move was long awaited with how poor their run defense has been.

If Ellis can get back to form and produce like the Raiders hope, it will give them a complete defensive end who can stay on the field. Scott, Burgess, and Richardson are one-dimensional. It remains to be seen if Sulak and Shaughnessy are as well.

Judging from this recent move, the latter may be the wise choice.

Lal and Fassel Face Challenge For Raiders

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:53:20 -0400

The Raiders felt confident enough in their assistant coaches that they chose not to look any farther then to promote two of them: Sanjay Lal and John Fassel.

When Raiders receiver coach James Lofton was fired (yet there was some rumor or tidbit following the firing that he would stay with the organization in a reduced role), and special team's coach Brian Schneider took his leave to join Pete Carrol's staff at USC, it seemed that the Raiders would have a challenge trying to find better coaches for those positions.

The Raiders wasted almost no time with replacing Lofton with Sanjay Lal, who has spent the past two years on the Raiders staff as an offensive quality-control coach.

Lal's experience ranges from passing game coordinator at Miramonte High (where he coached QB Ken Dorsey and WR Drew Bennett) in which he helped them win four North Coast Section championships including a 13-0 record in 2001, to wide receivers coach at Los Medanos College, to being an assistant at St. Mary's college.

Lal spent three years at CAL on Jeff Tedford's staff with the role of offensive administrative assistant prior to joining the Raiders in 2007. Lal doesn't jump out as a great move, but with Ted Tollner also serving as a receivers coach too in some capacity (considering that he will be passing game coordinator), it doesn't look too bad.

Only positive things have been said from the young receivers and Javon Walker about the round table meetings and such, so we'll see how it all plays out.

The other promotion went to Jim Fassel's son John, who last year was an assistant to Brian Scheider's great special teams unit. Before joining the silver & black, Fassel spent three years with the Baltimore Ravens an an assistant coach, two in which he was a special teams assistant.

The question here is whether or not the past three years being a special teams assistant is enough for him to make the jump to special teams coach.

He will now control a unit with play-makers such as Justin Miller and Johnnie Lee Higgins, who both possess the ability to take it to the house when they touch the football. Fassel will need to game-plan accordingly, as well as adjust and take the unit under his grasp to continue what Schneider started in 2007 when first joining the Raiders.

Obviously, Tom Cable and Al Davis must have figured why let in two new coaches when you can try and keep some cohesiveness amongst the players and coaching staff by promoting two young and upcoming coaches?

We'll see how these units do this year with two first-year titled assistant coaches at the helm, and if the Raiders were right to look in-house instead of outside.

With a lot soon to be invested in Darrius Heyward-Bey, and already with veteran receiver Javon Walker, Lal will need to really get this group going. Johnnie Lee Higgins was the Raiders leading receiver with just 22 receptions last year.

If the Raiders were so quick to can Lofton, who has a lot of experience working with receivers—a former one himself (a good one at that)—and one who demands great play,Lal will need to have better results if he wants to stick around.

Both Fassel and Lal have good talent to be coached, molded, and ready to sick on the rest of the league. It's up to them to improve their players from their 2008 form, and since it's looked brighter in Oakland since the Gruden era, don't be surprised it they have success.

With the losing mentality drifting out the window and the mindset of a winner entering the building, things are looking better for the Raiders.

Greg Ellis Would Help the Raiders in Many Ways

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:56:39 -0400

Greg Ellis has been a consistent force for the Dallas Cowboys for over a decade. His lowest sack total is three in 11 NFL seasons. Now, he's an unrestricted free agent.

He won't be for long though, with the Patriots rumored to be looking for a defensive end and also rumored to be interested in trading for the Raiders' former Pro Bowler Derrick Burgess.

Ellis has played strong side linebacker in the Cowboys' 3-4 scheme and also has experience playing as a 4-3 defensive end. He's listed at 262 pounds and could be the guy to push young underachiever Jay Richardson, or supplant him if given a chance in Oakland.

Ellis has been known to be a great mentor to the younger players around him, and who wouldn't look up to a guy that has had 20.5 sacks in the past two years at the age of 33? He was named Comeback Player of the Year in 2007 for a reason. A lot of people thought he was close to done, but his play and numbers don't lie.

If the Raiders were to bring Ellis in, he would instantly be the favorite to start at strong side linebacker or at defensive end. With inexperienced rookies Matt Shaughnessy, Stryker Sulak, and Slade Norris, he could provide some much-needed leadership and be a mentor, not only to them, but also to young and upcoming end Trevor Scott.

The Raiders' only big end is Richardson (280 pounds), who the Raiders have been hoping will come into his own ever since drafting him in the fifth round in 2007. He hasn't been able to be consistent, and Ellis could be just the guy to push him into being a better player, or push him onto the bench.

The reality of it all is the Raiders don't have a consistent power end (all of their ends are pass rushers besides Richardson) or a linebacker worthy of starting at strong side linebacker (at least not yet). Ellis could come in, start immediately, and not just keep to himself like the Raiders' veteran end Burgess.

With Burgess in a contract year, this could be a great signing for the Raiders—especially if there is any truth to the trade rumors of Burgess to New England.

Ellis probably would play for less at this stage in his career, but don't be surprised if the Raiders give him a sweeter offer if they are indeed interested and are in a race with other teams for his services.

Al Davis Assembles Experienced Staff To Improve 24-72 Six-Year Slump

A.J. DeMello — Fri, 29 May 2009 13:58:49 -0400

Fundamentals and great preparation have come back to Oakland. Al Davis may finally have a staff that can spring his team to at least mediocrity after compiling just 24 wins over the past six years.

Let's take a look at the coaches who will be very involved in turning around the Raiders (besides Tom Cable).

Paul Hackett, Quarterbacks Coach

Ever since Hackett was hired in 2008, first impression was that JaMarcus Russell has a good quarterback teacher now who may be able to take him to that next level. Instead, Hackett worked special projects for the Raiders last season and watched Russell's progress.

The Raiders made the smart choice this year by finally promoting Hackett to quarterbacks coach.

Hackett has worked with Joe Montana, Rich Gannon, and Chad Pennington, to name a few quarterbacks. They all have said he was very instrumental to their success.

Hackett brings tons of experience to this Raiders offense and will look to improve Russell's accuracy, timing, and preparation. Hackett is regarded as one of the best offensive coaches in the game (as well as one of the best preparation coaches).

With his knowledge and ability to improve the quarterback's play, he will be very important to the Raiders offense.

Ted Tollner, Passing Game Coordinator

Another experienced coach, Tollner will be looking to implement a downfield passing attack that will try to create mismatches when opponents stack the box to stop Tom Cable's three-headed monster (McFadden, Bush, Fargas).

Last year with the 49ers, Tollner helped quarterback Shaun Hill post an 87.5 quarterback rating (ranking 12th in the league) and assembled a 62.8 percent completion rate.

Tollner and Hackett together have invaluable experience since they have been working in the NFL for years and will be great teachers for Russell.

He will assist Cable in the passing game but will not call plays since Cable found his groove last year as a play-caller.

Jim Michalczik, Offensive Line Coach

Cable was the Raiders' offensive line coach before being hired as their head coach, spending every minute with Russell's body guards essentially.

However, now being head coach, Cable was looking for an offensive line coach that knows his scheme (ZBS) and could free him up more to the rest of the team.

The Raiders struck gold with Michalczik, who just so happened to leave Steve Sarkisian (who turned down Al Davis in 2007) in Washington to coach the Silver and Black with Cable, his friend and former coworker.

Michalczik is gold for Cable and the Raiders because he implemented the ZBS well at Cal, helping produce a 1,000 yard rusher every season since 2002. He was their assistant head coach and co-offensive coordinator last year as well, so he was a big contributor to the Bears' offense.

This is a great hire for the Raiders, who got a coach who can only add more spice to the offense.

Lionel Washington, Defensive Backs Coach

When the Raiders lost Darren Perry, some may have wondered who else would be available that has a track record like his (playing for the Steelers alongside Rod Woodson from 1992-98, with a career total of 35 interceptions).

When the Green Bay Packers did not re-sign defensive backs coach Lionel Washington, the Raiders must have been happy as ever knowing he is a man-to-man coach who previously played for the Raiders (1987-1994, 1997). During his career, he compiled 37 picks, four of which he took back for scores.

The guy knows how to play bump and run, and that's about all they do in Oakland. He's a better fit than Perry was. Another good hire.

John Marshall, Defensive Coordinator

The experienced crop of NFL coaches continues. Cable and Davis hired Marshall to bring his experience and knowledge to the table to help turn around a defense that has been in the bottom of the league in rush defense for years.

Marshall has been known to create pressure up front with the occasional blitz. This is good for the Raiders, who relied on their front four to get after the quarterback while Rob Ryan was here.

Marshall was a part of two Super Bowl teams from 1989-1998 with the San Francisco 49ers. They boasted the NFL's best defense 1997.

With the Panthers, his defense ranked fourth in takeaways (105) over his three-year stint from 1999-2001.

He was the leader of the 2005 Seahawks defense en route to a Super Bowl berth. They led the league with sacks (50), only allowed one 100 yard rusher and five rushing touchdowns, and finished second in NFL red-zone defense (40.4 percent).

Marshall will have his work cut out for him, as he is reteaching fundamentals to a Raiders squad that hasn't been consistent nor aggressive in years past under Rob Ryan.

Dwaine Board, Defensive Line Coach

This hire may be the reason Marshall has had success in the past, being as Board demands pressure up front.

Board started out as a player with the 49ers, then became an assistant coach with them and never looked back.

During his first year with the Seahawks in 2003, he turned the NFL's worst rush defense into 19th best in one year, also coaching them up to 41 sacks (seventh in the NFL).

From 2005-2007 with Seattle, his defensive line ranked second in the league with 136 sacks.

Over the past five years, the Raiders have given up 101 rushing touchdowns, which is the highest in NFL history over any five-year span. They have ranked 22nd (2004), 25th (2005-2006), and 31st (2007-2008) against the run.

If Board can put a dent in the Raiders' rank in rush defense and get players like nose tackle Terdell Sands and defensive end Jay Richardson to step it up in the process, the Raiders could have a nice front four this year.

But don't hold your breath. No matter how easy it is for Tom Cable to point the finger at Rob Ryan for the Raiders run defense troubles, the players still need to play better.

Bottom line: Davis and Cable have put together a staff that brings experience, knowledge, and hard work/preparation to a team that is just getting over the "we suck so let's not play hard" mentality.

It's the best staff the Raiders have had since Jon Gruden was here, by far.

It's all up to the coaches and players now, who will need to execute well, be in the right spot, and limit the mistakes to even have hope of reaching a .500 season or better this year.

A Possible Future Interview With Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell

A.J. DeMello — Sun, 24 May 2009 21:31:31 -0400

One day soon I could be conducting an interview with a player such as JaMarcus Russell of the Oakland Raiders. Here are some prepared questions if this were to occur:

1.) JaMarcus, you are now entering your third year in the league. Do you feel you have adjusted to the game, and do you see yourself having your best season yet this year and why?

2.) What do you make of your running back rotation? With Mcfadden, Bush and Fargas, that has to make an NFL quarterback happy knowing he has some guys to take the pressure off of him?

3.) Oren O'neal is still recovering from reconstructive knee surgery. If he is healthy by September with veteran fullback Lorenzo Neal in the mix, how does that help your offense with two powerful fullbacks?

4.) Javon Walker has had surgery and he says he'll be back at 100 percent this year. What do you think of him and the rest of your receiving core, including seventh overall pick Darrius Heyward-Bey?

5.) You and Zach Miller are exciting to watch. How did you develop that chemistry you have with him, and is he your most comfortable target as of now?

6.) Kalif Barnes and Samson Satele are the biggest new additions to the Raiders offensive line. Do you believe they'll be a better unit this year and will they keep you upright?

7.) Paul Hackett has worked with Joe Montana, Rich Gannon, and Chad Pennington to name a few players. How do you like working with him as your quarterback coach and have you learned anything new already, whether it be mechanics-wise or X's and Os wise?

8.) How do you like Tom Cable? Why is he the man who can take you and your team to the playoffs?

9.) How is it like throwing Nnamdi Asomugha's way during practice while you've been here? Has his play made you better knowing he is arguably the best corner in the game today?

10.) You've got a lot of speed on offense now. Do you see your arm getting loose this year with those deep balls we all know you can make?

Thank you for your time JaMarcus, and good luck to you and the Raiders this year.

Adding To The Raiders Playbook: The Deep Ball Has Returned

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 18 May 2009 14:50:10 -0400

The deepest throw JaMarcus Russell connected on was in October of last year to Chaz Schilens in a 10-29 loss to Baltimore. It was a 60 yard pass that Schilens caught and shook a defender in the process, almost managing a touchdown.

If you count Johnnie Lee Higgins 84 yard receiving touchdown in a 23-24 loss to the Bills Russell's deepest ball, you're mistaken because Higgins took it the distance with his speed.

The Raiders haven't been able to find a steady deep threat since Randy Moss was in Oakland. That was fun for about seven games, until he became injured his first year and we didn't see him go over the middle anymore for deep balls. Well, we don't know yet if Schilens can become a deep threat, but at least he isn't scared of getting hit.

However, I am not suggesting that Schilens will be used as the Raiders deep threat this year, but that is also not to say that we could see him running a go route from time to time or a cross route over the middle, since he has a big frame, decent speed and isn't afraid to go over the middle.

The Raiders drafted Maryland speedster receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey seventh overall to become the deep threat JaMarcus Russell will reek havoc on opposing NFL teams with for years to come. Well, that's what they're hoping for anyways.

The Raiders should be able to go deep this year and make some plays, being that they have a poised tight end who is on the cusp of a pro bowl birth to command the double team, and a backfield that can make opposing teams defenses stay up all night over.

The Raiders will have Javon Walker back at full speed too. Although his first season here was a little disappointing, it was overshadowed with is pre-existing knee injury he decided not to get surgery on after the 2007 season, as well as the Raiders offensive tackles who were giving Russell no help early on in the season (not to mention Lane Kiffin was holding back on letting Russell sling it around during his stay in Oakland).

In no way, shape or form do I think Walker will be great this year and Heyward-Bey will catch umpteen deep balls for scores, but there is too much talent and creativity in front of the Raiders that not saying they'll be able to throw the deep ball would be ridiculous. It comes down to execution.

The point is, that the Raiders have the personnel to go deep at least a couple times a game. If Walker is and stays healthy, he is usually a top five receiver in this league. He can make some people eat their words this year since he has a big chip on his shoulder with how many people don't believe he can return to his old form of a physical receiver.

Darrius Heyward-Bey will could his shots maybe twice a game down-field. I expect the Raiders to gradually incorporate him into the offense with Javon Walker and Chaz Schilens being the opening day starters.

Just imagine this scenario: The Raiders have a three receiver formation set with Walker far right, Heyward-Bey inside to the right, and Schilens split out wide to the left. Darren Mcfadden and Zach Miller are in the backfield as the running-backs (with this set, Russell can choose to leave Miller in to block if a blitz is to occur, or motion him or Mcfadden out wide).

Miller goes in motion to the left, Mcfadden remains in the backfield. Russell drops back, fakes the screen to Mcfadden, rolls to his right and finds Heyward-Bey in single coverage down-field for a score as he uses his speed to get under the ball and run in for an easy Raider touchdown.

That is just one scenario. Michael Bush and Darren Mcfadden can also throw the ball, so that brings some much needed mixing up in the playbook as well. The Raiders did have Bush throw twice last year.

The Raiders also have Johnnie Lee Higgins, who can make plays in space and will be very involved in this offense as well. The critics and realists may shut down talk of a Raiders possible deep threat or even a Raiders mediocre passing game, but they refuse to realize the possibilities.

It's all up to Tom Cable and the Raiders coaching staff to put their players in position to make plays, and to make the Raider Nation jump out of their seats once again to an exhilarating, "Touchdown Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaiders!!!" call by none other than the voice of the Raiders, Greg Papa.

Will the Oakland Raiders Run Away With It This Year?

A.J. DeMello — Thu, 14 May 2009 09:55:56 -0400

Aside from Cris Carter and Tom Jackson's unprofessional antics that surround the Oakland Raiders whenever ESPN talks Raider football, they and many others are overlooking or choosing to overlook the Raiders' rushing attack.

The Oakland Raiders have quietly ranked in the top 10 in rushing each of the past two seasons.

In 2007, Lane Kiffin's debut and Tom Cable's first year implementing the zone blocking scheme, the Raiders were sixth in rushing, averaging 4.1 yards per carry and 130.4 rushing yards a game. However, the Raiders only managed 11 rushing touchdowns.

Enter Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, who combined for 920 yards rushing off of 208 carries last year (an average of 4.4 yards per carry) with seven rushing touchdowns.

McFadden was hampered with turf toe last year, and Bush worked his way up the depth chart when given a chance to play.

Both of these men will be used more frequently when the season starts, and you can bet the Raiders will look to use them much more than Justin Fargas.

Last year Fargas was given the rock 218 times and had just 853 rushing yards to show for it, averaging 3.8 yards per carry, and only had one rushing touchdown. The Raiders' two younger backs had more rushing yards combined on 10 fewer carries than Fargas.

That was without Justin Griffith or Oren O'Neal, both of the Raiders' starting fullbacks, who went down with injuries last year (who were responsible for Fargas having 1,000 yards rushing in 2007), forcing them to sign Luke Lawton midseason. Lawton did better than expected but still isn't as strong as O'Neal or newly added Lorenzo Neal.

This brings us to how the rushing attack will be even better for the Raiders.

The rotation of fullbacks will help the Raiders, since both O'Neal and Neal are great run blockers. Neal also brings some veteran leadership to the offense and will be a great player for a guy like Oren O'Neal to learn from until he becomes fully healthy.

McFadden wasn't at full strength for most of the 2008 season and played through a shoulder injury as well. Having him fully healthy should be exciting with how they used Bush against Tampa Bay.

They ran at the Bucs with Bush over and over to wear them down, then let McFadden touch the ball on a sweep or screen to see if he can beat a few people around a corner, which he has been known to do.

Samson Satele, who the Raiders acquired via trade, is more versatile than former Raiders center Jake Grove and will probably prove to be better in time.

With the Raiders' ability to command eight men in the box against the run, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Javon Walker, who is healthy now, and Zach Miller should be able to make some big plays for this young offense.

The Raiders can really run away with it this year on offense if they execute by giving the ball to Darren McFadden and Michael Bush more.

Two power fullbacks, assuming Oren O'Neal is healthy to play for the Raiders at some point this year, will be a bad mix for opposing defenses, especially with the talent the Raiders have on the outside to beat you for the big play.

Oakland Raiders Camp Battles, Pt. 2: Defense

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 11 May 2009 14:08:44 -0400

Continuing on from yesterday's assessment of the Raiders offensive players that may have some intriguing competition at their positions, we now take a look at the defensive side of the ball:

Hiram Eugene/Michael Huff

Both of these men haven't really made a case for being a starter at free safety for the Raiders. Eugene essentially got the starting job after the Raiders were done with Schweigart (2007) and Huff (2008) at free the last two seasons more or less because they couldn't tackle, but that's not to say that they couldn't cover well, either.

Eugene has proven to be the best tackler of the two, but still has struggled in coverage. Huff has not showed anything since coming into this league besides shadowing tight ends for two years from 06'-07' and gathering one interception.

The Raiders really like second year safety Tyvon Branch (4th round pick in 2008) and drafted Michael Mitchell this year in the second round, who may be able to switch from free to strong safety in games-so Huff and Eugene have a lot to improve on if either wants to start this year for the Raiders.

Kirk Morrison

He is decent in coverage, along with weak-side starting linebacker Thomas Howard. That's about it, and you would think the Raiders might feel the same way by recently trying last years starting SAM linebacker Ricky Brown at middle linebacker during their mini-camp which took place this past weekend.

Raiders also signed un-drafted free agent linebacker Frantz Joseph (Florida-Atlantic) who was projected to go anywhere from the 4th round to the 7th, but ended up going un-drafted. Joesph originally started out at Boston College, but made the switch to Florida Atlantic to be closer to his mother and help her out.

He holds the single-season FAU record for tackles. He finished the season ranked No. 2 nationally in tackles per game and was named the Defensive MVP of the Motor City Bowl as well as the Texas versus the Nation All-Star game, so he may be the physical presence the Raiders have missed (if they give him a chance).

Bottom Line; this is Morrison's last year on his rookie deal. If the Raiders are trying Ricky Brown out in the middle, who knows.

They are definitely looking for a more physical presence against the run given that Morrison shows little physical distinctiveness, makes most of his tackles five yards down-field and misses tackles constantly when he should be the best tackler on the field. It will be interesting to see if Morrison is on the field for running downs this year.

Ricky Brown

He got the nod at the SAM linebacker spot last year because of his ability to run from sideline to sideline, something Sam Williams wasn't too good at. He also had his struggles against the run, but it didn't help that he had Derrick Burgess trying to hold ground on running-downs in front of him when he is nothing more than a perennial pass rusher.

Frantz Joesph, David Dixon, Stryker Sulak and Slade Norris may all see some reps at the SAM position, a position the Raider haven't had stability at for a long time now. Brown is seeing some time at middle linebacker, and Tom Cable said he would try Sulak and Norris at the SAM, so that position is up in the air.

Derrick Burgess/Jay Richardson

The Rob Ryan staff saw fit that Derrick Burgess was on the filed for the majority of the snaps on defense ever since his 16 sack season in 2005. Well, in 2005 he was a situational pass rusher so maybe the new staff can keep him healthy (which happens to be a contract year) and productive this year by playing him at the appropriate time(s).

Richardson has been looking to develop more of a pass rush ever since being drafted by the Raiders in the 5th round in 2007. He is big at 6'6 280 pounds, but he needs to be more consistent or he will not be starting.

With recently drafted defensive end Matt Shaugnessey (4th round 2009) and tweener linebacker/end types in Slade Norris and Stryker Sulak, the Raiders are looking to upgrade the front seven and if Richardson wants to start he will really have to come into his own this year and be more than just a situational player.

Terdell Sands

He's gotten lighter, and maybe can be more productive for the Raiders this year. The problem with Sands is he gets gassed easy, and with how the Raiders used Gerard Warren last year at the nose with Sands, that might be a better duo now with Sands being in better shape.

Don't hold your breath on Sands though, the guy simply has been too inconsistent and taken out of plays during most of his time with the Raiders as he get stood up a lot. He will be the key player to the defense though, because if he can't be the run stuffer the Raiders think he can be, look forward to the Raiders being next to last again in run defense for the sixth consecutive year.

Oakland Raiders Camp Battles, Pt. 1: Offense

A.J. DeMello — Sun, 10 May 2009 09:26:15 -0400

This is Pt. 1 of 2; analysis of the defense will come tomorrow.

Mini camp is here. So, which starting players may have some competition at their respected positions on offense for the silver and black?

Justin Fargas

He broke for 1,000 yards rushing in 2007, but that was when the Raiders had better play at center with Jeremy Newberry, and had current injured fullback Oren O'Neal leading the way—as well as Justin Griffith.

Fargas is liked and respected by most of the team and coaching staff, but he doesn't possess the skill set that Michael Bush and Darren McFadden have and both bring to the offense. Fargas must really put on his best showing this year in camp, and during the regular season, if he wants to get half of the carries he got last year.

Cooper Carlisle

Although he has been solid and was probably the Raiders' best offensive linemen in 2007, last year he struggled a bit and looked weak at times trying to hold his ground against the universal tackles (three technique).

Carlisle is a perfect fit for the Raiders offense, having worked in the ZBS in Denver for six years before coming here to Oakland in '07, but with newcomer Marcus Johnson being a bit bigger (6'6", 320 pounds) than Carlisle (6'5", 295 pounds) he could give the Raiders more strength up front. Johnson will have to take to coaching well here since he was in a power blocking scheme with the Vikings for four years.

Mario Henderson

I wouldn't have put his name here—since I believe new addition Kalif Barnes will not be able to beat him out—but Barnes will at least push him into becoming a better player, more focused and competitive.

Over the past four years with the Jaguars, Barnes started at left tackle for 57 games, appearing in 60. Barnes came to Oakland with a swagger, saying that he came here to be the Raiders left tackle for the next 10 years, although he only signed a one year deal.

The knack on Barnes is that he struggles against speed rushers. His strength is in the run game. Barnes and Henderson are the Raiders best two tackles on the roster, and both will probably be starting.

My guess is that Barnes eventually lines up on the right side and starts, but the Raiders are going to let Barnes get reps at left tackle for now, so Henderson won't just be handed the job.

Javon Walker

Surprise, surprise. The champagne party buff is rich, and was almost beaten to death last year as he contemplated retirement.

However, Walker wasn't having thoughts about retiring because of his incident, it was because his knee was still injured last year. He said he was 65 percent, but now feels great having surgery that the Raiders just found out about a couple of days ago. Former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan was right after all, saying Walker needed surgery after the 2007 season.

The good news for Walker is that he should be fully healthy—unless he sustains another injury when he returns to the field—for the first time in a long time and can now show how good he can be for the Raiders.

The bad news? Enter Darrius Heyward-Bey and Louis Murphy. With Chaz Schilens coming on late last year and Johnnie Lee Higgins showing he isn't just a return specialist, there will be a lot of competition at receiver.

When Walker is healthy he is definitely a top-10 receiver in this league, possibly top- five if he can return to the form we saw in 2004 with Green Bay (89 receptions, 1,382 yards receiving with 12 touchdowns) or in 2006 with Denver (69 receptions, 1,084 receiving yards with 8 touchdowns).

By the way, it's worth noting that Walker shared in Denver with Brandon Marshall and couldn't be the clear-cut No. 1 receiver, while in Green Bay he was the No. 1 guy and had that fantastic 2004 season on just 12 starts.

Oakland Raiders Need Better Play Up Front on Defense

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 06 May 2009 13:10:07 -0400

Free agency and the NFL Draft are over. The Oakland Raiders still have a decent-sized list of question marks going into September, most notably the poor run defense of theirs that has ranked about dead last for half of the last decade.

The Raiders during the past five years against the run have ranked 22nd (2004), 25th (2005-2006), and 31st (2007-2008). They also have given up 101 rushing touchdowns over the past five years, which is the highest ever in NFL history over any five-year span.

Not one defensive tackle was drafted by the Raiders, but they made two signings through free agency. They signed defensive tackle Ryan Boschetti, who spent the past five years working his way up from the practice squad in Washington to the active roster, and undrafted Harvard defensive tackle Desmond Bryant.

You would figure the Raiders would look to sign a bigger tackle, someone who could preferably play the nose.

With no true nose tackle (since Terdell Sands has slipped in overall play since his best season in 2006) the Raiders are more than likely expecting more points to be scored on offense, ultimately helping the defense by keeping them off the field.

Boschetti and Bryant both weigh less than 300 pounds, so Sands and Gerard Warren still remain the two biggest defensive linemen on the roster.

The curious thing is, if Warren weighs 330 pounds, and Sands weighs more, the Raiders are thinking a new coaching staff will turn these players into better ones. Fat chance, but with all the money they have tied up at defensive tackle (Warren and Tommy Kelly are both making $5 million+), Al Davis and Tom Cable believe in the people they have for now.

Run defense is something the Raiders have not done well executing during the Rob Ryan era, but the Raiders think they will turn the corner with the new John Marshall staff calling plays instead Ryan.

Marshall has been known to at least get pressure on the quarterback, and with the Raiders drafting a couple more pass rushers in the draft in Stryker Sulak and Slade Norris, they should mesh well with Trevor Scott and Derrick Burgess for a nice pass rush.

A problem for the Raiders is having more pass rushers than stout run defenders. The Raiders are hoping having all these high motor players, including fourth round pick defensive end Matt Shaughnessy, will equal success.

Ryan and his staff's questionable methods came to the forefront when they started to play pass rushers on running downs, with Burgess at end and Warren at the nose.

If the last Raiders coaching staff knew anything, it was that Sands wasn't the best fit to play every down against the run (or they just gave up on him) since Warren saw the majority of playing time.

Trevor Scott and Jay Richardson, two defensive ends on the Raiders roster, are no starters either, one being a situational pass-rusher that lacks size (Scott) and the other having great size but who's yet to come into his own since being drafted by the Raiders in 2007 (Richardson).

The problem with the Raiders' defensive line is that they have too many role players and only one clear-cut starter in Tommy Kelly. In order for him and the others around him to be effective, there must be better play around him, and it all starts with Terdell Sands.

The nose tackle position is the first cannon on your line of defense. If he misses or doesn't even get in the vicinity (disrupt the play in some way), it certainly doesn't make the man's job next to him or behind him easier.

The Raiders need Sands to step it up and play better; that's what it all comes down to. This guy looked like a monster at home against the Chargers (two sacks) in the close loss that was Lane Kiffin's ticket out of town. Sands basically swallowed two linemen in one of his two sacks, which is why he looked like a beast.

Better utilization, better coaching, and better play—specifically from the big men up front—need to happen for the Raiders to not once again reign supreme in horrid run defense.

Analyzing the Raiders Draft

A.J. DeMello — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 11:19:05 -0400

After the Raiders selected Darrius Heyward-Bey seventh overall, their next pick was 40th overall, but they traded seven spots down to grab an additional fourth round pick and sixth round pick, including the Patriots second round pick 47th overall.

The Raiders stayed with speed and character here as they took Mike Mitchell from Ohio (who happens to run a sub par 4.3). Unsurprisingly, ESPN's Mel Kiper and NFL Network's Mike Mayock uttered "reach" since both of them had him as a seventh round draft pick or undrafted free agent on their boards.

The Raiders took him at number 47 because he's fast, hits hard, and the Bears were looking to grab him two slots later with pick 49. On the second day of the draft, both draft guru's apologized saying it wasn't a huge reach since the Bears were high on him too, but still thought it was early for him to go since there were better safeties available.

When asked about Mitchell, Tom Cable went so far as to say that he reminds him of Ronnie Lott and Jack Tatum, who Mitchell just so happens to model his game after. Mitchell has been a leader for the Ohio defense for the past four years, posting sixty-two total tackles with two forced fumbles and three interceptions in 2008.

Going on to the third round on day two of the NFL Draft, the Raiders chose Matt Shaughnessy with the 71st pick in the draft. A defensive end from Wisconsin, he may have to bulk up a bit to be an every down end, but he's versatile enough to play at both right or left end as he definitely has a huge motor.

He became a starter his sophomore season at Wisconsin, and had to overcome two injuries from his knee to his broken leg. He is a really good character guy, earned second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2007. He will look to contribute early with his motor, and possibly start.

The Raiders took Florida receiver Louis Murphy with their first of two fourth round picks at 124 (4.4 speed, and was "too good to pass up" said Tom Cable) overall. Murphy has good speed and hands, and has averaged six and a half touchdowns a year the past two years at Florida.

Murphy is another potential deep threat down field for JaMarcus Russell, and is also another good character guy. He was one of the offensive leaders for the Gators, but was overshadowed by Percy Harvin.

With their second fourth round selection, the Raiders took defensive end/outside-linebacker Slade Norris from Oregon Sate with the 126th pick in the draft. He is primarily a speed rusher, and has experience playing defensive end and outside-linebacker.

Norris had 18.5 tackles for loss during his senior year with 10 sacks. Listed below 240 pounds, he will need to add some bulk if he looks to contribute apart from special teams to get adequate playing time on defense.

The Raiders then had to wait til the sixth round to make their next pick at 199, where they took defensive end Stryker Sulak from Missouri. He notched 29 solo stops and 10 sacks last year, so the thinking here is the Raiders are doing all they can to improve that pass rush.

With the Raiders last pick, they traded up from the seventh round with the Panthers into the sixth round. The Panthers received the Raiders seventh round pick, and next years sixth round pick.

With the Raiders final selection they chose tight end Brandon Meyers out of Iowa. Cable has been talking about "marrying" Zach Miller with another blocking tight end to free him up some more. The Raiders got an asset here in the running and passing game here.

Overall, I give the Raiders a C grade for the draft. They didn't draft an offensive tackle or defensive tackle, which could be troublesome down the road if Terdel Sands doesn't produce and Cornel Green ends up starting again.

They emerged with two down field threats for Jamarcus, and a few speed rushers off the edge. They think that will be enough to get them to the playoffs. We shall see.

Speed Fills Biggest Need for Raiders

A.J. DeMello — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:25:57 -0400

It was a shocker, some would say, when the Raiders took Darrius Heyward-Bey out of Maryland with the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft. Well, not to Oakland—who saw him as the best receiver in the draft, at least for them.

A lot ask why not a trade down? Well, Al Davis as always, has stuck with his style of not trading down in the first round of the NFL Draft, and this year the tradition lived on as the Raiders may have reached a little with the speedy (4.3 40-yard dash) receiver out of Maryland.

The Raiders will tell you otherwise, as Tom Cable was quick to point out later on Saturday that Heyward-Bey may have less of a learning curve than other top receivers Michael Crabtree (49ers), Jeremy Maclin (Eagles), and Percy Harvin (Vikings)—who all come from the spread offense.

The knock on Heyward-Bey is inconsistent hands and numbers while at Maryland. However, one can argue that he never had a quarterback who could get him the ball, and if he were to play in a spread offense, he may have scored 50 touchdowns—as Tom Cable put it.

In three years at Maryland, Heyward-Bey accumulated 138 receptions, for 2,089 yards and 13 touchdowns. He has never averaged less than 14.5 yards a reception while at Maryland, and with his speed he has the ability to take it to the house every time he has possession of the football.

What the Raiders love about Heyward-Bey, besides his speed and vertical ability to go up and get the ball, is his work ethic and drive. He had this to say to Oakland Tribune's Jerry McDonald in a media conference call that took place on Saturday:

"My favorite player is Jerry Rice and he played for the Oakland Raiders late in his career. That’s my favorite player. His work ethic is beyond anybody else. That’s who I try to model myself after when it comes to work ethic. Past that, I think I have my own unique type of game."

If Heyward-Bey's work ethic is half of what Rice's was, the Raiders will be very happy with their first round pick.

In terms of overall talent, the 49ers were licking their chops when Michael Crabtree fell into their lap and was taken with the 10th pick overall, being that he was atop most people's draft boards as one of the best players in the draft.

For what it's worth, rumors were flying before the draft that Crabtree scared off the Browns and possibly the Raiders with a "Diva" attitude.

When he was passed by the Raiders, a presumed relative of his that was sitting at his table, wiped his hand across his face as if to say "that was close" and Crabtree laughed. So maybe that "no comment" quote (when asked how he'd look in silver & black on an NFL.com chat) wasn't taken out of context and being that Al Davis doesn't like it when players don't want to play for him, that could have played a factor.

Both Heyward-Bey and Crabtree will reside in the Bay Area now, and the Raiders and 49ers will look back on this draft a couple years from now (or sooner) to see who got the better receiver.

People may laugh, get mad, or be totally struck in amazement that the Raiders took Heyward-Bey with the seventh overall pick, but the reality of it is that Al Davis hasn't had a deep threat in Oakland since Randy Moss was traded in 2007.

Guess which NFL player Raiders scouts compared Heyward-Bey too?

Check back tomorrow for a look at the rest of the Oakland Raiders drafted players, and where they look to contribute...

2009 NFL Top 10 Mock Draft Version 2.0

A.J. DeMello — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:33:41 -0400

DET 1.) Matthew Stafford is close to accepting a deal with the Lions, and it appears that the Lions' "L" will now officially stand for losers, since they don't care for protecting a quarterback but certainly like to draft and sign them to take the hits that the owner and general manager should be taking. Stafford becomes a Lion, and they can only hope they don't reach too much for an offensive tackle prospect at pick No. 20.

STL 2.) Jason Smith is going to be the pick here, as the Rams should know they can win with Marc Bulger if he has time to throw. Also, getting a versatile offensive tackle such as Smith will also make former Pro Bowl running back Steven Jackson very happy, by helping out not just in the passing game but a lot in the run game.

KC 3.) Chiefs are trying to trade down, I'm guessing, simply because it makes sense that Scott Pioli wouldn't want to spend huge bucks so early. Assuming they don't trade down, the pick here should be the best player in the draft in Aaron Curry.

SEA 4.) The Seahawks say they don't want a quarterback, or do they? Having a young guy like Mark Sanchez learn behind a veteran such as Matt Hasselbeck sounds too good too pass up, but there will be other teams calling.

No matter what happens here with this pick, it's probably going to be Mark Sanchez, as I expect them to keep him or trade him/the pick. Look for the Redskins and Broncos to lead the chase, with the Jets sitting back waiting to trade for Jason Campbell or possibly Brady Quinn. 49ers could be involved too.

CLE 5.) Michael Crabtree or not? Not. Crabtree seems overconfident and didn't impress Eric Mangini with his "diva" attitude. Being as Mangini is trying to get rid of those types (Kellen Winslow, Braylon Edwards), I'm going to say he is not the pick here.

Mangini knows from the years with Bill Belichick that winning starts up front. Some people in Cleveland like the idea of Shaun Rogers at end, and throwing over $20 million to a Brian Orakpo to convert to linebacker seems risky, so they go with B.J. Raji and continue to build a strong defensive line here.

CIN 6.) Crabtree will be very hard to pass up here, but what do the Bengals do if their star quarterback goes down with another injury because they failed to get a big offensive tackle to help him out? The Bills have been rumored to try to move up and get the big man, but Andre Smith goes here to a team that desperately needs a mauler.

OAK 7.) *TRADE* Crabtree falls into the Raiders' lap here. However, I'm not so sure they will pick him now, with his recent "no comment" diss towards the Raiders when asked if he'd want to play for them. Al Davis ran Gibril Wilson out of town for some comments about not wanting to play for his team, and he gave him a six-year, $36 million deal the year before.

Besides, I'm told the Raiders are really high on Darrius Heyward-Bey, so I'm going to play devil's advocate here and say the Raiders trade down for the first time in round one with the Bills, who grab the last of the top four "Cadillac" offensive linemen, as Tom Cable would say, in Eugene Monroe. If a trade doesn't take place here, I fully expect the Raiders to select Brian Orakpo.

JAC 8.) Jacksonville has been the team who arguably has made the most noise regarding trading out of the top 10. Now what? They just signed Torry Holt, but realistically, if they want they can cut ties with him after this year if they so choose. Jaguars can't pass up the best receiver in the draft here and take Michael Crabtree, for better or for worse.

Jack Del Rio has to win now more than ever, being that that extension he signed because of a 2007 playoff push could be disintegrating before him if his team doesn't show promise this year.

GB 9.) Green Bay needs a defensive end/outside linebacker type here to go in their 3-4 scheme. No need to say more as the cheese heads will be happy to get Brian Orakpo at nine.

SF 10.) *EDIT* The 49ers have some players on the defensive line that should have big years, and I believe Mike Singletary has confidence in the guys he has, but he will select a hybrid defensive end/outside linebacker type at some point.

However, the 49ers' safeties accounted for zero interceptions last year, and Walt Harris is getting up there in age at 34 years old. 49ers could take Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State here to be a playmaker in their secondary for years to come, but they make the smart pick with Michael Oher.

2009 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions Would Be Better Off Without Matthew Stafford

A.J. DeMello — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:39:01 -0400

There are many, many reports out there right now.

Some say the Lions have a deal in place for Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford and won't budge, others say they have a deal in place for Aaron Curry which is supposed to cost less.

I am sad to write that, judging from the all media outlets and rumors and such, it sounds like the Lions are going to pick Mathew Stafford No. 1 overall in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Whoever is running the Lions—wake up!

Just because Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco had some success in their rookie years, doesn't mean Stafford will. They had talent around them to succeed, and better offensive lines.

What will Stafford have? Calvin Johnson? We saw how that worked out last year for the Lions, 0-16 with a great receiver. Ladies and gentlemen, the Lions could do it again.

They have no offensive line. That unit up front made Jon Kitna go bonkers and start throwing interceptions left and right, not to mention the 10 wins he would predict—that was funny.

Investing in a quarterback, an underclassmen at that, is the wrong way to go here. The Lions have already failed twice with early first round quarterbacks:

Andre Ware, Drafted Seventh Overall in 1990 Out of Houston

The guy broke all the school records, only to have another quarterback bust in after him and break them.

Joey Harrington, Drafted Third Overall in 2002 Out of Oregon

This guy failed from the get-go. Why? No offensive line, no defense, no consistent coaching.

Sound familiar?

The Lions (if it's true they are set on Stafford and he accepts their deal) have to be out of their minds. They're going to pick another quarterback without someone to block for him and a defense that essentially lays down in games.

What are they thinking? They have already had two previous busts at quarterback, because there was no offensive line or defense to help them out.

The Lions should take a page out of Tony Sparano's and Bill Parcell's playbook and grab the best offensive tackle, in Jason Smith from Baylor, or the best defensive (and arguably best overall) player in the draft, in Aaron Curry from Wake Forest.

The Lions have Daunte Culpepper. People are quick to write him off because he had two stints with bad teams after his injury in Minnesota. Scott Linehan and Culpepper made some great magic happen in Minnesota not five years ago—and it can happen again.

If the Lions aren't sure about Culpepper, well it wouldn't be the first time somebody wasn't. Spend less money and draft a quarterback with your next pick, or look to see who's available via trade.

Jason Campbell from the Redskins and Brady Quinn from the Browns may even be on the block (per profootballtalk.com), and would come at a way lower salary cap figure.

My advice to the Lions; take someone who can help you now with the best offensive tackle or defensive player in the draft. You don't have the talent around you, nor the time to develop a quarterback. You saw what happened with Ware and Harrington, can you afford to miss again?

I really feel for you Lions fans, though Matt Millen may be finally gone—the mentality lives on. Let's hope (for their sake and yours) they don't draft Mathew Stafford.

Keep the faith Lions fans, you're going to need it if Stafford is your team's choice come April 25.

Oakland Raiders Seeking Trade Partner for Seventh Overall Pick and Players

A.J. DeMello — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:48:38 -0400

It's no secret that the Raiders only have five picks in the NFL draft. They have a pick in the first, second, third, fourth, and seventh rounds. Unsurprisingly, they could be looking to acquire more picks via trade down, or by trading one of their players.

According to Raiderbeat.com, the Raiders are fielding "numerous" calls for the seventh overall pick in the draft. A Raiders official said Tuesday that the Raiders haven't received any offers worthy of trading down in the draft just yet, but are listening. He also said that the Raiders are fielding calls for the following players who are on the trading block:

Justin Fargas, RB
Andrew Walter, QB
Stanford Routt, CB
Michael Huff, S
Derrick Burgess, DE

Considering that Walter hasn't been happy here since he took the fall for the Shell regiment in '06, and with the recent signing of quarterback Jeff Garcia, the Raiders will simply take what they can get for their disgruntled former quarterback of the future.

Burgess is in the last year of his contract, so it makes sense to entertain offers for his services, but it also makes sense to let him play out his contract year and have a pro-bowl season.

Michael Huff has been a disappointment. Since he wasn't even Al's pick, the Raiders will try again to move him. They should have an easier time moving him (in terms of a cap hit) than last year since his salary is less than a million. However, Huff doesn't have a lot of good tape behind him.

The only names that stand out from the trading block list are running back Justin Fargas and cornerback Stanford Routt.

The Raiders saw last year that they need all three backs, although with Michael Bush looking good with an increase in carries and Darren McFadden returning healthy, there may be no room for the Raiders' two-time commitment to excellence.

Supposedly the Raiders are high on last year's preseason star running back Louis Rankin, so carrying a veteran like Fargas that has taken his share of hits in the league may not be in order.

Fargas may not have great vision or speed, but he has the attention of the younger teammates around him and the staff even labeled him as a "leader" on offense. I'm also told that moving Fargas would result in a cap casualty, but if the Raiders have him on the block it must be manageable.

Stanford Routt has been mediocre ever since he was drafted in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of Houston, and has registered four picks in his four years with the silver and black. Due to Al Davis having a knack for drafting a fast defensive back every year, he could be parting ways with Routt to try out someone else at nickel.