Rebuilding the Raiders: No Quick Fix, But Here's a Start

Raider fans are fully aware that this is a swing year. This is either the year we start our ascension back to the top, or pick up where we left off as the laughing stock.

Last year, we showed signs of two things we hadn't shown in a while: Maturity, and an actual desire to win. And it started with JaMarcus Russell. Whether he is a great leader or not, we will see. But one thing is evident, his emotion and energy caught the eye of his team.

We got so used to having the lifeless QB under center (I.E Walter and Collins) and it showed with the other players. Great play? Big deal. Terrible mistake? who cares. This is no longer this case with Russell.

Mix in having a coach who we actually know will be there come week one with up and coming talent, and you have a recipe for a new start. Here are a few names in FA and the Draft who could fit in the puzzle, or at least look good in silver and black.

FREE AGENCY

OLB Derrick Brooks

Is he retiring? Is he playing? Does he have anything left? Not sure, but i do know if he is playing, what he does have left, will be more than Ricky Brown and Sam Williams. The Leadership he can bring to their young defense is the real allure.

OT Tra Thomas

A stopgap whose career is winding down. But still capable of watching Russell's backside. Should be able to acquire for a reasonable price.

WR Mike Furrey

Is Higgins ready to play the slot? Can he do more than catch an occasional bomb? Furrey has shown he can be a No. 2, and play the slot.

S Sean Jones

Has adequate tackling and cover skills to fit in the system. Has shown potential to emerge as a star in the league.

DRAFT

First Round: WR Michael Crabtree

A potential No. 1 WR with great hands, and good enough speed. A bonafide playmaker. With Seattle signing Housh, he just may fall to us. Alts: DT Bj Raji, OT Michael Oher.

Second Round: OT Jamon Meredith

If we do snag Crabtree, Jamon Meredith is our guy here. A good combine shot him up draft boards, and would make him excellent value with the 40th pick. Alts: DE Michael Johnson, G Duke Robinson.

Third Round: SS Michael Hamlin

Rashard Baker did well in his spells for Wilson last year. He is a good back up. Hamlin was the leader of stingy defense at Clemson and is a definite Sunday player. Excellent value if he is here. Alts: OLB Marcus Freeman, DE Brandon Williams.

Fourth Round: OT Jason Watkins

Depth, Depth, Depth. Alts: C Antoine Caldwell, DT Ricky Jean-Francois.

Sixth Round: QB/WR Pat White

Impressed a few people at the combine at the QB spot. Speedy enough to make the squad, and have a trick play or two with his name on it. Alts: RB Arian Foster, CB London Johnson.

Seventh Round: CB Christopher Owens

Raiders go a full draft without taking a CB? I think not. Ran a 4.44 at the combine. With most CB tanking the 40. It gets him drafted. Alts: DT Marlon Favorite, WR Deon Butler.