Myers set to sign?
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Thursday, July 16th, 2009 at 7:48 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Profootballtalk.com is reporting the Raiders, according to a league source, are prepared to sign sixth-round draft pick Brandon Myers.
Heard the same thing myself a couple of hours ago, in fact, was told that agent Nate Haber had posted on a Twitter account it was for four years.
Haven’t seen anything on that Twitter account, however.
Myers was the 202nd player selected _ three picks after of Stryker Sulak, the defensive end/linebacker the Raiders cut Wednesday. PFT reports a $90,000 signing bonus for Myers _ within a few thousand of what Sulak would have received.
Among the most ridiculous arguments for the cutting of Sulak is that the club is short of cash. The 90 to 100 grand in bonus money it would have taken to sign Sulak is couch change compared to what it’s going to take to bring in Darrius Heyward-Bey and Mike Mitchell.
And those two players will almost assuredly be to camp on time.
If the Raiders suddenly can’t bring Heyward-Bey, Mitchell and Matt Shaugnessy to camp _ or abruptly cut any of them _ the cash-flow argument is worth considering.
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
July 16th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
COW
If they come out and beat Norv Turner on MNF……..
July 16th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Coach On Wheels Says:
July 16th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
well I’m hopeful for 2009 and think the team will improve in several areas. The problem is going to bee the schedule the Raiders face.
SD (loss) I’d love a major upset but the Raiders haven’t beat SD in forever. A week 1 match means LT, Gates and Merriman will all likely be healthy. Couldn’t handled the banged up Bolts last year.
@KC – (Win) Yeah the Chefs stink BUT every year we split with them. Fortunately we win in KC.
DEN – (Win) Got destroyed by Denver at home last year but no Cutler or Shannahan. No D Hall either.
@Hou – (Win) This is a must win game between two middle of the pack teams. These are the games we have to have to sniff .500.
@NYG – (Loss) Raiders fans get to see what real “talent” on the D-line looks like. Suddenly Sands and Kelly look even more overpaid.
Phi – (Win) The Raiders actually match up well against the Eagles west coastish offense. With no power ground game Philly makes Oakland’s D look decent after it got worked by NY.
NYJ – (win) The hapless Jets are worse than the 08 tea m Oakland handled at home.
@SD – (loss) After two weeks of looking grea t against teams with no power running game, our D gets mualed in a shootout.
BYE – At 5-3 Raider fans are talking playoffs and ignoring the team’s ugly habit of getting thumped by power runners.
KC – (win) Coming off a bye they finally sweep the Chefs.
Cin – (loss) It is either here or earlier against Philly that the Raiders find a way to lose a close one at home. Most folks will say it’ll be the Philly game. I see a 6-3 team getting cocky and blowing it here.
@Dal – (loss) The short week and national audience jinx are too much. A blowout.
@Pit – (loss) Another powerhouse team runs over the D.
Was (win) – A suddenly 6-6 tea m stops the bleeding and notches win 7 for the first time in 7 years.
@Den – (loss) Snow eliminates the Raider’s speed. Donks win a sloppy nail-biter.
@Clev – (win) The Raiders only real hope to hit .500 means they have to win aga inst teams like Houston and Cleveland and upset Philly or bea t Cincy. They out-ugly Cleveland for 8-7 and a slim pla yoff hope.
Bal (loss) The Raiders are mathmaticly elimina ted before the playoff bound Ravens get a cha nce to slap them around.
8-8 2 nd in AFC West
Unless they upset Bal, Pit, Dal or SD or NYG the Raiders have 6 losses right off. The sad reality is if they go 2-2 vs KC and Den aga in, they’re 8 losses in with six toss-up games. Go 3-3 and it is a long 5-11 season.
July 16th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
If they win the opener, Cin, and home against Baltimore……….
July 16th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
Jerry,
Regarding Sulak:
Most of us here know it wasn’t a cash problem, but we are not sure what it’s!
Was it to due to roster #s, attitude problems, or he’s not a good fit for our scheme?
Do your job sir! Ask around, call players, the ORG, or do something!
We (the Nation) demand answers!
Other than that, you are doing great for a slow season.
Thank you.
July 16th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
FREE 408’s IP!!!
July 16th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
We demand that too! Free 408!
July 16th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Dell,
Dude, it’s mid July!! Where are you?
You must be having a great time.
July 16th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
Flip flip flip!
Flop flop flop!
July 16th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
—”So they simply wrote off Sulak rather than pay him a bonus in the $80,000 to $90,000 range just to sign a contract when they knew he probably wouldn’t make the practice squad.”—
—”Better to admit the mistake now than write a check just to defend the honor of a draft pick. “—
—–
—”Among the most ridiculous arguments for the cutting of Sulak is that the club is short of cash. The 90 to 100 grand in bonus money it would have taken to sign Sulak is couch change compared to what it’s going to take to bring in Darrius Heyward-Bey and Mike Mitchell.”—
____________________________________________________
Jerry, no matter how you spin it, their plan failed, and as you said 90Ks is nothing, so no matter what they, should have kept him and see him in pads… its type-writer/overhead projector all over again…
That said, just got home, and im going to bed…
408, good to see ya…
July 16th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
OAK,
Bro, it was a busy day for me as well. I didn’t get a chance to post much today.
Have a great night.
July 16th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
Good night LMN.
July 16th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
90k is nothing!!
Can someone pls give me 90k!! lol
I want 90k too uncle Al!
July 16th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
M O D,
Name calling happens here a lot, so why not forgive and forget sir as we all do here?
Free 408’s IP! Pls
July 16th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
408 man I feel ya
July 16th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
MOD,please allow 408RAIDER back,myself,Willie,and many others miss his posts and insight,would gain respect from ALL of us,last time I checked,WE all screw up,correct!!! 408,got new recipe for Bloody Marys
July 16th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
O are you there???…… Free 408!!!!!!
July 16th, 2009 at 10:27 pm
night nation ….
July 16th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
R8,
What’s up Dude? Where have you been bro?
July 16th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
R8!!!!!!
July 16th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
u still here
????
July 16th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Bach to work FINALY
July 16th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
R8,
It look like I just missed you bro. Too bad!!
You haven’t been posting lately, I hope all is well with you and your family.
God bless you all, especially your daughter.
July 16th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Back
July 16th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
She heads to korea one month from yesterday… thanx for asking bro
July 16th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
R8,
Nice!! God doesn’t forget his good people!
What do you think about cutting Sulak and frantz?
July 16th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
I think the offense good this year great next year. The thing is when teams figure out what we want to do. They will gameplan us better then can we make the necessary adjustments to counter that.
That’s why the run game is sooo important. A formidable run game makes defenses play honest. That’s when the deep ball becomes an ace in the hole. If we can get the timing down on the deep ball by midseason this offense will be very difficult to stop. That’s why I say by midseason because throwing to speed is the hardest thing for most QB’s. Timing is everything it is hard to establish once you have it it can be the most dynamic aspect of your offense. Defenses start to play gimic coverages to stop it. That forces them to defend every blade of grass. Very few defenses are capable of that. Even cover2 get stretched out of their zones. You can then attack underneath. Which is why the deep ball is soo dynamic.
Hopefully that private session enhanced the chance of establishing the deep ball earlier in the year.
July 16th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
Kinda weird must be a bad fit….i was hoping Frantz would make it but it is a business and you cant let a good feeling story way on your dision making prosess… its to bad we dont know the whole story
July 16th, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Run!
Run!
Short pass!!
1st down.
Run!
PA!
TD.
I love it!
July 16th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
What’s BHP? As you can see, I agree.
July 16th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Raider O, I think Marshall is looking to feature the LBers in this defense. Frantz just doesn’t have the range, I saw him in a game against Mich St. when Ringer rushed for 230 yards he plays in a phone booth from tackle to tackle. Has no ability to play in space. He needss to play in a scheme which will allow that. Sulak got caught in a #’s game simple as that. They can only keep 80 players they want to see other players more than him. It’s the NFL………period
July 16th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
BHP : Im with you …we need a year to ” Gel ” as a TEAM not just players but coaches also …. they need to figure out what works and ahat doesnt..Cable and company HAVE to stay togeather for 2-3 years to right this ship
July 16th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
Sulak: it’s a wasted 6th RD pick at a position where we have a few guys like sulak. I’m not going to miss him. Unless he becomes a PBer, then I Will kill Mr. Davis myself. lol
Frantz: why keep Williams and a TE/ LB over him? So what if he didn’t run a fast 40? Greg Biekert wasn’t fast.
July 16th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
BHP,
You answered my post before I posted it! Keep up the good work sir. lol
July 16th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
BHP : Marshall imo has the biggest job to do this year…. not saying Hackett and Tollner dont but he has to turn this defense around in a hurry… we have the talent”for the most part ” we need to execute better for all 4 quarter and not roll over at the end
July 16th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
R8 & BHP
And we didn’t add much talent on Defense.
A 2nd RD pick S who I like a lot, and a 33 Rush end.
Where is the help against the run?
Before you answer me BHP, I remember what you said about teaching the Dline better techniques. Is that going to be enough for the 31st ranked D against the run?
July 16th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Paver, that’s one way to look at it but really if he can get guy’s t be resopnsible and stay true to the scheme he will have solved the defensive issues IMO.
One of the defenive players in an interview said exactly what I’m alluding to, he said “we just need to grow up” what he’s saying is guy’s need to play for each other and play assignment sound football. IMO that was Ryans failing he couldn’t get that done consistently enough to matter.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:00 pm
All right guys iv been up since 3:3o this morning i need to get some sleep good talking to you both soon…. We WILL turn this thing around soon and win again i just feel it… We have a great core group of young guys that just need a consistant coaching staff
Good night O and BHP
July 16th, 2009 at 11:01 pm
The NFL is all about “what have you done lately”
It’s hard to get 3 yrs as HC without results!
July 16th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Good Night R8, and keep posting as much as you can.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Absolutely Raider O, that is everything. It’s no different than what people say about Fargas and his style he had to learn to run behind his pads he still needs better vision an IMO PATIENCE to the hole.
Dlineman biggest asset is leverage when you play tooo high it compromises your power. If they keep their pads low with that size and power it’s l,ike playing against a diffeent player.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
As often as you can.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:06 pm
Trust me Dwaine Board’s biggest task is to get these guy’s to consistently stay low.
Gnite guy’s
Adios!
July 16th, 2009 at 11:06 pm
I know you don’t like to predict things, but how much can Marshall improve this D? Especially against the run! Is top 16 possible?
July 16th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
Absolutely top 10 is possible if they tackle well and trust me people are underestimating a great tackling safety. If MM is what I think he is he could change this defense tremendously
July 16th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
BHP,
I like MM, and I hope you are right.
I appreciate your time, and have a great night.
Good night Nation.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
One of the reasons I hated Huff and Stu is the extra snaps we had to play on defense because they took wrong angles and couldn’t knock players backwards. If your safety can make stops you can get off the field.
Stu would tackle a guy but they would get the 1st down. Huff same thing in breaking up passes and such. We played a ton of snaps over the last 5 years due to bad tackling.
July 17th, 2009 at 1:27 am
# Crow Says:
July 16th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
This really is an impressive collection of know-nothing homers. It’s like raiderfans.net took a dump on Jerrah’s blog. Shameful. Funny, but shameful.
————-
you aint lying hb. the fans of the oakland raiders are all over their teams sites huh smartass? really feel sorry for the people that have to deaL with characters like you on a daily basis always trying to be different then the mood in each room to make you feel like youre something special.
well congratulations. you are different. you take your dumps out of your mouth instead of you know where…
BADBREATH… hmm, seems like we a got a new term for da HATERS lol!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 3:30 am
Morning nation. Free dirty and my ip.
July 17th, 2009 at 3:47 am
it’s a brand new day in raider nation…
pass the kool-aid…
July 17th, 2009 at 5:34 am
Whats up fellas.
GO RAIDERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
July 17th, 2009 at 5:55 am
Mornin’ mornin’ Crew.
After 5 yrs of jacked up coaches & seasons I’m inexplicably optimistic about this season for no special reason & I’m usually a cynical person so I don’t know what to do with myself.
I’m with RAider O: 8/9 wins minimum.
July 17th, 2009 at 6:27 am
Mornin’ mornin’ Crew.
After 5 yrs of jacked up coaches & seasons I’m inexplicably optimistic about this season for no special reason
****************************
Morning Nation!!!!!
The reason is yu are starting to see stalbility and we are not used to it so reacting with optimisim could create a internal struggle I fell ya on that!!!
But we have retained our coach continuity has to be of the upmost importance in a young QB’s life!!! We also went out first thing and retained in-house talent when every one was saying Al couldnt afford Aso/Lechler?another top 10 pic!!!!! But he did it!! Then we brought in the best in Hackket/Tol and that will speak in volumes!!! Then we even started restructering contracts which means guys actually want to be here and are on board with this!!!!!! COME RISE WITH US!!!!!!
GALLERY TO THE PROBOWL!!!!!!!
TOP 15 Defense!!!!!!!
Bush and McFadd Become the best Dou in the Leauge!!!
JLH ST Prowbowl apperance!!!!
MMMMMMmmmmMMMMMM
Gotta love the Silver and Black Flavor with that surgar in the RAW!!!!!!!little splash for the crew!!!
Gabby Petes cup is empty!!!!WTF?!?!?!?!??!!?
July 17th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Ya know, OAKlifer, I don’t understand the bagging on JR. What about Carson Palmer? How many yrs does he get before we call him a bust? How about Leinert? Quinn? We could be sitting here with them but everyone s#!t on JR, no mention of these 2 “busts” oh well, plenty of time to shut them up. Can you imagine if we were sitting here with Leinert as our QB?
July 17th, 2009 at 6:36 am
good morning NMF, TW, OAKlifer …
July 17th, 2009 at 6:43 am
Raider O: I know you don’t like to predict things, but how much can Marshall improve this D? Especially against the run! Is top 16 possible?
Priest: Absolutely top 10 is possible if they tackle well and trust me people are underestimating a great tackling safety. If MM is what I think he is he could change this defense tremendously
***
Are you kidding me? I think a good place to aim for is 17-20th ranked run defense. Top 10 because of the impact a safety can have? You annoint Mitchell as “the next great safety” when he’s either been at school or injured the entire offseason thus far. The kid hasn’t even put the pads on yet. Before you call out Stu & Huff wait and see what Huff can do with a new DC and see if M&M is all hype or the real deal. I don’t expect him to make much of an impact as a rookie. Heyward-Bey either … but the good news is I think the other WR’s and S’s will step it up and bring enough to the table. We’ll win some games this year – beleive that!
July 17th, 2009 at 6:55 am
Most of the opponents on that schedule are going to try and pound the football first.
***
S&B: It doesn’t matter what their o-line looks like or how talented their RB’s are. When you rank 31st against the run there isn’t any reason for teams to try and beat you through the air. Running the football wears down a defense, gets you good field position, wins the time of possession battle and destroys the D’s confidence. It also forces your DC to make adjustments (blitz less. 8 men in the box, etc)
Anybody remember getting trashed by the Titans when Vince Young had an awful game? How about losing to the Texans when David Carr had negative passing yards and a zero QB rating? Then losing twice to the Browns with Frye at QB. fatty mcgee LenDale White ran over us. Ron Dayne ran through us and William Green ran around us.
Marshall/Board/Haluchek and the defensive front seven are gonna have prove it early on by shutting down Tomlinson, Sproles, LJ, Moreno & Slaton that we are a dominant force up front on Defense and teams better take their chances on the outside against CJ or one of the safeties …
July 17th, 2009 at 6:56 am
priesttj Says:
July 16th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
I think the offense good this year great next year.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
True. Southwick is only one man.
July 17th, 2009 at 6:57 am
Mornin’ RR, I see our D improved just because Ryan has hit the skids. He never held players accountable for failure or simply adjusting. That said I don’t expect them to stop the run until I see it. As for MM I hope he gets on the field this yr much less becoming Tatum but I have hopes of him being Lott/Tatum hitter soon but that’s just me being Polly Anna! hahaha
July 17th, 2009 at 7:04 am
Run Defense is paramount, absolutely. But Pass protection is a close 2nd…
***
LMN: I disagree … I know that Vegas (and many others) think that you can win games in spite of your o-line, because Pittsburgh & Arizona didn’t have the best 2 OL’s in the league and they made it to the big show.
I think that you should win games because of your o-line! If McFadden/Bush/Fargas are running into a brick wall every play this offense will struggle, because we’re set up to be a run-first team and Russell is still learning. His youth and inexperience will show again this season, but I do expect to see growth and signs of improvement. If Russell doesn’t have a running game to rely on and he’s forced to throw he better have some good pass protection, which also falls on the o-line. Looks how many penalties we had from the OL last year. Think that didn’t hinder our chances of moving the chains or scoring points? Russell is the face of the franchise and I think you can only go as far as your leaders take you. How many leaders do we have on Defense? one? and he’s a corner! This defense isn’t going to carry us to the promised land fellas. Not this year anyways. If Russell fails, we fail. If the OL fails, Russell fails. simple as that. I don’t want to relive 2006.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:06 am
so to make a long story short. I’ll get straight to the point …
#1 pass protection
#2 run defense
***
Either way, If we can’t stop Tomlinson & Sproles on MNF – we lose. If we can’t keep Russell’s jersey clean against Shawne Merriman, Jamal Williams, etc – we lose.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:11 am
“We are light years ahead of where we were last year. We’re going to be a lot better then people are giving us credit for.”
-Raiders WR Todd Watkins
July 17th, 2009 at 7:13 am
NEVER hear that from a player during the offseason. LOL!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Southwick may keep Russell’s jersey clean, if you know what I mean. Pass the lingonberries…
July 17th, 2009 at 7:15 am
what’s up Dude?
Michael Vick is freed from federal custody on Monday!
potential suitors?
July 17th, 2009 at 7:18 am
RaiderTW Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Ya know, OAKlifer, I don’t understand the bagging on JR. What about Carson Palmer? How many yrs does he get before we call him a bust? How about Leinert? Quinn? We could be sitting here with them but everyone s#!t on JR, no mention of these 2 “busts” oh well, plenty of time to shut them up. Can you imagine if we were sitting here with Leinert as our QB?
——————————————————-
Raider TW I make this argument all the time dude.
Throw Vince Young in that group as well. The other argument I am tired of hearing is he only throws the deep ball. Yeah we know he has a strong arm but look how many short passes he also threw last year. They act like every pass JAM threw to Miller was 60-70 yard bombs on posts. They were mainly 10,15,20 yard drags and out patterns. Even the passes he got to JLH were short passes were JLH got away from the defense. JAM has worked with the worse WR core in the league for two years. Outside of Miller and JLH (who does not always run the best patterns. Chaz late in the 2008 season who else did he have to throw too? Not to mention an average pass blocking o-line. Now hopefully our running game is on and opens the passing game up. With big money comes big expectations.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:19 am
hey Duder whats the haps!!!!!!
Morning Double R!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:19 am
RRS…
Cincy and pitts had good run defense as I recall, then your oline dont have to be that good….
but tomato/tomaahhhto, it doesnt matter, problem is that our pass protection stinks just as much as our Run D..
if both were 15th, it wouldnt matter so much, becuase then we could start control the games with OUR run, problem is are in no position all season to control the game, we have to react on what the other does..
July 17th, 2009 at 7:22 am
good morning LMN, BSJ, CJ …
July 17th, 2009 at 7:23 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 7:15 am
what’s up Dude?
Michael Vick is freed from federal custody on Monday!
potential suitors?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
i wouldn’t hire Michael Vick to take care of my dog !!!
oh… yeah… well…
you get my meaning…
July 17th, 2009 at 7:24 am
How the hell does someone throw Carson Palmer in the bust conversation? He is easily one of the best QBs in the league. Guarantee Leinart ends up being a good player, sitting behind Warner will only help, not to mention having Fitz and Boldin. Quin and Russell should be in the same “TBD” boat.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:27 am
Gooooooood mornin’!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:41 am
Goodday everybody…. nice day here in the old kingdom =)
July 17th, 2009 at 7:43 am
# Florida Pete Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 7:23 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 7:15 am
what’s up Dude?
Michael Vick is freed from federal custody on Monday!
potential suitors?
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
i wouldn’t hire Michael Vick to take care of my dog !!!
oh… yeah… well…
you get my meaning…
__________________________________________________
I rather let Vick take care of my dog, than Michael Jackson babysit my kids…
July 17th, 2009 at 7:44 am
I rather let Vick take care of my dog, than Michael Jackson babysit my kids…
***
Agreed!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:46 am
LMN,
MJ is now dead….so he couldn’t do too much harm to your kids other than assault their olfactory senses.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:46 am
“Guarantee Leinart ends up being a good player”
For someone who talks about people’s opinion and how dumb they are, you do say a lot of dumb things yourself. What a dumb statement to make!! Based on what???
Good morning AM crew. Why is their a monkey sitting on the table.
Gabby,
Get some fresh coffee, and get this monkey of the table!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:48 am
I can’t believe the Vikings traded for Sage Rosenfels instead of Derek Anderson and now their considering Brett Favre at 39 years old coming off injury!
how stupid is Brad Childress?
DA is 26 years old, made the Pro Bowl in 2007 and has a rocket arm!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:48 am
Leinart sucks.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:49 am
good morning Raider O, Dakota, Pete …
July 17th, 2009 at 7:50 am
DA is 26 years old, made the Pro Bowl in 2007 and has a rocket arm!
AND WENT TO OREGON STATE and partied with yours truley!!! I watched him and Kellen Clemons play for a state championship in highschool!! We called DA the Mosse from Scappose!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:52 am
Good Morning RR.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:52 am
What will be our Twitter access for camp? Shuold be daily, right? David White only? Or is Jerry getting with it too?
July 17th, 2009 at 7:53 am
OAKlifer: thats awesome!
you got any “insider” info on Slade Norris ?
July 17th, 2009 at 7:53 am
What’s uuuuuuuuup OAK?
I do miss those beer comercials?
July 17th, 2009 at 7:56 am
I read yesterday that sulak was cut because he didn’t do well as an OLB, and he was way back on the depth chart as an End they there was no way he makes the roster.
So we did try him at OLB, and he didn’t workout. It’s not a wasted pick. IMO
July 17th, 2009 at 7:57 am
I think I am taking the afternoon off today…to mow the fukin lawn….oh well, better than spending my Friday evening mowing….
July 17th, 2009 at 7:57 am
I read yesterday that sulak was cut because he didn’t do well as an OLB
***
Where’d you read that? Media only had access to OTA’s one day per week and Jerry Mac reported Sulak played exclusively at DE
July 17th, 2009 at 7:58 am
Raider 0,
Based on watching EVERY game the dude played in college. Based on seeing how accurate and smart he is. Based on the fact he has been allowed to sit and learn behind a good veteran. Based on the fact that he will have all the weapons he needs at his disposal. IE: Star WRs, good running game, good OL and a stable coaching staff/environment. Based on ALL that I say he ends up being a good player. What the hell have you EVER based your opinions on? Wishes and dreams and complete B.S. thats what.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:59 am
Heres another gem from Raider 0…. A draft pick who dznt even make it to training camp isnt a “wasted pick”. LOL!!!!!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 8:00 am
one thing I though was interesting …
Since Burgess was absent and Richardson was injured, our starters at DE in OTA’s were Greg Ellis & Greyson Gunheim. Lombardi reported early in the offseason that Davis was high on Gunheim. Where does that leave Richardson or Shaughnessy? Will we keep 5 DE’s on the roster, even after pitching Sulak (a prized draft pick) ???
July 17th, 2009 at 8:01 am
Who cares about Stryker? He was a 6th round pick! The time to be pissed will be when either A) Mike Mitchell is cut or B) Mike Mitchell never sees the field
That will be a wasted pick…..
Oh and when DHB catches 15-20 balls while Russell is sacked a bunch of times because our RT blows (either Barnes or Green).
July 17th, 2009 at 8:03 am
Dude Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 7:58 am
Raider 0,
Based on watching EVERY game the dude played in college.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LMAO, no wonder this idiot never has a clue. He’s a Trojan fan.
Wake up. Leinert is a complete bust, and makes JR’s work ethic look like Gannon’s.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:04 am
Damn….the insider trading case against Mark Cuban has been dismissed….I wanted to watch him run the Mavs from inside a federal prison camp!
July 17th, 2009 at 8:04 am
How is Leinart a complete Bust and Russell isnt?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Raider Rockstar- Vick would be a good fit for the Saints as a back up to Drew Breezzee!!! They play that open styled offense and Vick is a good change up to run the ball he scrambles alot like Drew as well. Vick could also help their running game as a rushing QB from the backfield. Plus, I think NOs and Sean Payton are a strong enough franchise to handle the negative publicity. Look how they already had to handle the stadium getting rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:06 am
Yeah, sux to be a Trojan fan. Assume your a Big Blue fan?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:07 am
Mornng guys… Haven’t checked in since Weds.
Cool, signed someone…. ehhhh what ev, sign DHB and Mitchell and I’ll comment.
Regarding yeterdays thread (old new I know), couldn’t help but get a giggle out of it. “Murphy will out play DHB, DHB will out play Walker” yatta yatta yatta…
In the 09 Draft most analyst had the WR’s ranked as follows:
1. Michael Crabtree
2. Jeremy Maclin
3. Percy Harvin
4. Darrius Heyward-Bey
5. Kenny Britt
6. Robiski
The top three recievers on this list weren’t guys I though fit our system, and/or where too similar too up and coming guys on the roster already, i.e., JLH (Maclin), Schelins (Crabtree/Harvin).
My list went like this:
1. Heyward-Bey (Got him!)
2. Harvin (I know risky)
3. Robiski
4. Crabtree
5. etc….
Now everyone is making Murphy out to be this super stud, and he may be but come on now. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve said many times before I was excited to get him and think he can develope into a real threat, but he is similar to DHB in many ways. He’s a stretch the field guy with suspect hands, slower and smaller (wieght wise) than DHB. Not to mention I had the inside scoop on DHB as my buddy is in a Maryland family and follows the team. He says DHB’s catching ability is great and doesnt recall him dropping hardly anything thrown his way. Problem was, they just didnt throw to the guy.
My point is this:
regardless of stats, I think we got the best player for what we are trying to do. I’ve also said this 1,000 times… Don’t expect the world from this guy in his rookie year. He IS raw, needs work on his routes and just simply has a young football mind. Remember this kid came out early because of how many teams were looking for WR’s in the draft and it paid off for him. Now it may take time but I believe we got the right guy in the long run. Schilens will be our most productive reciever this season if he stays healthy and Walker doesn’t show up again (I still think he has some in the tank though). Next season, DHB shows up for us and we start getting our moneys worth. I can hear the panic already in week 5 when DHB only has 2 TD’s LOL. Give this kid a few years to get into the mold of a NFL #1 reciever.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:09 am
Lol, you know Leinart is a bust when the Raiders’ defense, of all defenses, lol, made him look bad. You should be banned from football for life if that happened to you over the past couple of years…
…couldn’t torch Rob fukin Ryan’s defense, lol = BUST
July 17th, 2009 at 8:10 am
Dakota…
damn…. damnit…”olfactory senses” what does that mean, never heard about it…
July 17th, 2009 at 8:11 am
CJ: I thought the Raiders should have signed somebody like Brad Johnson or Gus Frerotte to be the backup/mentor QB for Russell. Then we could bring in Vick for next to nothing and see if he can beat out Andrew Walter for the 3rd QB spot. groom him under Tollner & Hackett and also use him in wildcat formations or trick plays
Then we signed Garcia & Southwick and I’ve changed my stance completely! Maybe Vick will land in Seattle under Mora Jr. & Knapp again? He’d be the 3rd QB behind Hasselbeck & Seneca Wallace …
July 17th, 2009 at 8:11 am
Couple of things for AZ,
DHB wont have 2 tds all year
Walker has more in the tank?? Based on what?
EVERY scout says DHBs hands are his weakness, but your “buddy” says theyre “great”? Hmmmm….
Crabtree was your nmbr 4 and DHB was 1? I bet.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:13 am
RR,
I’m looking for the article, but I can’t copy and paste.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:13 am
LMN,
“In vertebrates smells are sensed by olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium.”
July 17th, 2009 at 8:14 am
Dakota,
Vikings D good?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:15 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 7:48 am
I can’t believe the Vikings traded for Sage Rosenfels instead of Derek Anderson and now their considering Brett Favre at 39 years old coming off injury!
how stupid is Brad Childress?
DA is 26 years old, made the Pro Bowl in 2007 and has a rocket arm!
=======================================================
I can’t believe the Vikings DIDN’T trade for Jeff Garcia. For a team so close to a SB run. Isn’t he supposed to be one of the top 5 QBs in football…….
July 17th, 2009 at 8:18 am
DA is a good QB, I actually think Cleveland is playing their hand well. Dont trade him till you figure out what you have in Quinn. One way or the other theyll have have a good QB.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:19 am
DHB wont have 2 tds all year
Walker has more in the tank?? Based on what?
***
Dude: you’re a Raider fan and you’re spouting off these kinds of predictions? that’s harsh bro. A realist might say “I don’t expect him make much of an impact in his rookie year” like Quadry Ismael says on NFL Live. Maybe something like “I doubt Walker will return to Pro Bowl form after so many injuries in consecutive seasons” Maybe something like “I think Higgins & Schilens will get the bulk of the WR receptions since the have the best chemistry with Russell from last season” but 2 TD’s all year? nothing left in the tank? ouch!
Heyward-Bey: 30 catches, 450 yards, 5 TD’s
Walker: 50 catches, 600 yards, 3 TD’s
July 17th, 2009 at 8:20 am
SnB,
Yeah, for the past three years or so I thought the Vikes or the Bears should have traded for or signed Jeff Garcia. Your window to win a SB can close in an instant…why not go for it instead of stubbornly sticking with junk QBs?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:22 am
Yes Dude, that is exacly what I wrote. Love your optimism though. What are you saying? Yes, Crabtree was my #4. I hate Texas Tech, maybe thats why he dropped. Just like I never put any AFC west players on my fantasy team LOl, but thats besides the point.
The only question it looks like you had for me was about Walker.
Yeah, I think he has some in the tank, based on him still having his speed and great hands. I think he lacks confidence and experience in our system.
Oh, and what scouts are you refering too (do you mean analysts)? My buddy only talked about games, so I don’t know or care what “scouts” say. If we throw to him and he catches it…. Cool with me. Don’t care about pro days and all that garbage.
So Crab was #1 on your list? Remember Gannon is retired and so is the bubble screen in Oakland.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:22 am
RR,
You make those rediculous predictions and you say I am not a “realist”?? Funny.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:23 am
Dude Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 8:14 am
Dakota,
Vikings D good?
___________________
Pretty good…what is your point? Did Leinart have a good game against them?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:23 am
AZ Raider,
It appears that Murphy has the intangibles working for him. The guy is already vocal, catching balls, voluntarily working with the QB while not under contract, already developing into a Cable type guy, and most importantly (NOT FEELING THE HEAT FOR BEING OVERDRAFTED).
Every ball D-HB struggles with, every move he makes….is going to be in the white hot glare of the media and Michael Crabtree. Its not fair for the kid and I hope he shows everyone that he is worthy of the #7 pick.
But when that contract comes down…expectations come with it. Louis Murphy is used to the big stage as a team captain and was a 4th round pick.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:23 am
you got any “insider” info on Slade Norris ?
**************************
Nahhhh…It;s been five years or so since Ive been to OSU campus!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 8:25 am
What % of Crabtrees catches were “bubble screens”?
Find a couting report on DHB that dznt list his hands as a weak spot. Just one and I will never mention it again.
After 2 knee injuries Walker still has his “speed”? Yeah, ok.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:25 am
I can’t believe the Vikings DIDN’T trade for Jeff Garcia. For a team so close to a SB run. Isn’t he supposed to be one of the top 5 QBs in football…….
***
S&B: I know you’re being sarcastic, but I said “Top 20 QB’s” and Jeff Garcia is more of a game manager QB now. He doesn’t have the arm strength Minny is looking for to throw bombs at the speedy Berrian, Rice & Harvin. Minny wants to run it down your throat and toss it over your head, like Tom Cable said Oakland wants to do (minus a solid O-Line. haha)
They wouldn’t have had to TRADE for Garcia. He was a free agent with maybe 1 or 2 years left. Derek Anderson might have 10 years left! Garcia wanted to be close to home with his hot wife and his little kids. mission accomplished.
How do we know that Garcia wasn’t offered a cheap 1 year deal to “compete” in Minny?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:26 am
Dakota…
lol, i didnt know rubber/plastic could rot =)
July 17th, 2009 at 8:26 am
Their D is light years better than the Raiders and Leinart lit em up like for 400 yards so….
July 17th, 2009 at 8:26 am
RR,
I can’t find the article bro, and I’m done looking. I think it as on Just Blog Baby and S&B SI.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:27 am
lol, Dude, I hope you are not trying to use this line vs. the Vikes as some proof that leinart isn’t a bust!
11/26 2006 @ MIN L 26-31 1 1 31 51 60.8Com% 405 yards 7.9 1TD 2INT 1 10 76.0 1 0 0.0 0 1 0
First, I don’t recall if the Vikes D was any good in 2006;
second, it was in 2006, lol;
third, he lost the game;
fourth he threw twice as many INTs ans TDs
….LMFAO
July 17th, 2009 at 8:28 am
SNB,
Oh, don’t get me wrong, I love what Murphy is doing. I’m not bashing him. Just that some bloggers saying he is a better “talent” than DHB is crazy. No, I love what Murphy is doing….
July 17th, 2009 at 8:28 am
You make those rediculous predictions and you say I am not a “realist”?? Funny
***
Dude: what? those totals aren’t attainable?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Dude Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 8:26 am
Their D is light years better than the Raiders and Leinart lit em up like for 400 yards so….
++++++++++++++++++++
Oh no, you really did! haaaaahahahaha
July 17th, 2009 at 8:30 am
Dude,
Yes, even with his knee injuries he’s faster than Jerry Porter LOL.
Find me a scouting report that says DHB has bad hands and I’ll ignore it. We drafted him, so we get to see for our selves
July 17th, 2009 at 8:32 am
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/218732-the-top-five-best-fanbases-in-the-nfl
July 17th, 2009 at 8:33 am
RaiderRockstar,
I agree with you that opponents are going to challenge the run defense early and often.
But I have optimism. Sort of taking a page from BHP and HayesDaze playbook.
The coaches and Al Davis know what’s at stake. That the losing has to stop.
They feel very confident they have the elite talent to become a dominant defense. Cable has said as much and they left the front 7 in tact. Even praised their ability and play. I will defer to them on that because they are there.
If Cable and company are right…then this defense should be a top 15 defense. Marshall does have a lot of experience. I can’t imagine him setting his own self up for failure.
I am looking forward to this season. If the Raiders can stuff the run….a lot of these teams will struggle mightily trying to throw on this team.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Mornin all.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Good Morning Raccoon.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Darrius Heyward-Bey Scouting Report
Projected Draft Position
by FFToolbox Writers
Ben Standig’s 5/1 Mock Draft Not selected
User Predictions for Where
Darrius Heyward-Bey will be drafted
1st Round
1
Position: WR
School & Year/Status: Maryland – Drafted
Jersey Number: #8
Height & Weight: 6′3 – 206 lbs.
Ranked #23 on our Top 100 Prospects Board
Drafted 1.7 by OAK
NFL Combine Results
40-Yard Dash 4.30
Bench press 16
Vertical jump 38.5
Broad jump 10′6
Three-cone drill 6.80
20-yard shuttle 4.18
See All Combine Results
2009 NFL Draft Prospect Scouting Report:
person
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
It did not take long for Darrius Heyward-Bey to make his mark on the Maryland football program. After redshirting in 2005, Heyward-Bey led the team with 45 receptions, 694 yards and five receiving touchdowns. For his efforts, he earned a variety of All-ACC and All-America honors from various sources. As a sophomore Heyward-Bey cemented his status as one of the best receivers in the Atlantic Coast Conference, catching 51 passes for 786 yards and three touchdowns. Due to a lack of a quarterback to get him the ball, Heyward-Bey’s numbers will never be that impressive at the collegiate level, but he has all the skills to be an effective pass catcher in the NFL.
It all starts with his size and toughness. At 6-3 and 206 pounds, there are taller receivers out there, but few can combine that size with athleticism that matches Heyward-Bey. The junior has used that athleticism to become one of the best jump-ball threats in the nation. Heyward-Bey also has the speed to match just about any other receiver in this class.
With his combination of size, speed and strength, Heyward-Bey could be a first round selection. He will need to put up good numbers at the combine to prove it (since his collegiate production is lacking due to an incapable passing offense in Maryland), but Heyward-Bey should not disappoint when he shows his stuff for the NFL scouts.
10/26 Update: After a horrible start to the season when Maryland barely beat Delaware and then lost to Middle Tennessee, the Terrapins have won six of their last seven games and are tied with Florida State atop the ACC Atlantic standings. The offense still struggles at times, but that has little to do with Heyward-Bey. In eight games the receiver has caught 25 passes for 404 yards and four touchdowns. In an effort to get their playmaker the ball more often, Heyward-Bey has even tallied nine rushes for 202 yards and a score. He is not going to put up huge numbers like some other receivers, but Heyward-Bey is still a first round talent.
1/13 Update: The lack of offense at Maryland kept Heyward-Bey’s numbers down all year long. He ended the year with just 42 receptions for 609 yards and five touchdowns. He also carried the ball 15 times for 202 yards and a score. Those numbers would not get any better next year and Heyward-Bey knows that he will be one of the top three or four receivers in the upcoming draft. Thus, he opted to skip out on his senior season with the Terps and will be playing on Sundays next season.
3/24 Update: Heyward-Bey’s speed is his biggest asset and he certainly showed everybody how fast he is at the NFL Combine. He is not a short possession receiver who is nothing but fast. With his size and speed, he should be a first round pick. However, his lack of collegiate production is a concern for many teams and that could drop him into the early second round.
4/16 Update: Heyward-Bey worked out for the Raiders recently and if they want him, they either have to take him with the seventh overall pick in the draft or trade down. Even if the Maryland receiver does not end up in Oakland, he will not have to wait too long to have his name called on draft day. Michael Crabtree is still the top receiver in the class, but Heyward-Bey could surpass Jeremy Maclin when all is said and done.
Last Updated Apr-16-2009 by Joel Welser
July 17th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Cable & Davis brought in Heyward-Bey twice prior to the draft. They said his hands weren’t an issue. Thought he was more NFL ready than the other two big names coming from a pro style offense. was taller & faster. good personality, background, etc. coachable.
What’s the problem? We haven’t even got to training camp yet! I don’t know about you, but I’m glad Russell has better receiving options this year than Ronald Curry & Ashley Lelie. Has better protection than Kwame Harris at LT. Has better coaching than Kiffin/Knapp/Defilippo … etc etc
July 17th, 2009 at 8:36 am
Dude,
I looked it up….the Vikes in 2006 were dead last against the pass! LMFAO
July 17th, 2009 at 8:37 am
RR,
Considering that no Raider WR even came close to those numbers last year, this is a run first and second offense, JLH and Chaz are the top 2 wrs and the simple fact that Javon Walker is absolutly done as an NFL reciever those numbers arent a remote possibility.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:38 am
Dude,
That was the first report that came up on google… Which one are you looking at LOL. Seems like the poor guy just didnt have a QB.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:39 am
Dakota,
LMAO @ 130
July 17th, 2009 at 8:39 am
If Cable and company are right…then this defense should be a top 15 defense.
***
top 15 overall or top 15 run defense ???
July 17th, 2009 at 8:39 am
Damn, even our own fans hate us LOL
July 17th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Dont get it twisted, I am not saying Leinart is a PBer or anything close at this moment, all I am saying is he has the skills and the right situation to succeed down the road. If he was in SF or Jacksonville or Oakland I wouldnt be saying the same thing. I fully believe if Russell ends up a bust it will have more to do with the Raiders as a franchise than his own downfalls.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:43 am
Considering that no Raider WR even came close to those numbers last year, this is a run first and second offense, JLH and Chaz are the top 2 wrs and the simple fact that Javon Walker is absolutly done as an NFL reciever those numbers arent a remote possibility
***
Alright Dude. fair enough. what are your predictions for Heyward-Bey & Walker (numbers wise)?
Keep in mind that Curry & Lelie are gone now. their starts, yards, catches, TD’s, etc could have led to bigger & better things had Higgins & Schilens started from Day 1 … Cable has another blocking TE on the roster now. That should free up Zach Miller as a receiving option and he could draw double teams
July 17th, 2009 at 8:43 am
AZ,
Great read, thank you brother.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:44 am
No prob O! Good to see/read ya LOL
July 17th, 2009 at 8:44 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 8:39 am
If Cable and company are right…then this defense should be a top 15 defense.
***
top 15 overall or top 15 run defense ???
=======================================================
Top 15 run defense
July 17th, 2009 at 8:45 am
Rockstar,
Cable said that Kelly, Warren and Sands are very good DTs….they like the DEs…and the linebackers are going to be more active.
His job is on the line. Do you really think Cable, an O-Line coach by training, is going to jeopardize his only shot at a head coach gig with a defense he doesn’t believe in.
I am starting to think Marshall might be on to something. If he has the linebackers playing downhill….maybe this can work
July 17th, 2009 at 8:46 am
S&B: If John Marshall takes this defense from 31st to 15th against the run in 1 season with basically the same personnel he should be named coach of the year and will get a Head Coaching gig next season.
Probably in Denver. LOL
July 17th, 2009 at 8:49 am
Rockstar,
The Raiders kept the same personnel. Cable said that they have all the pieces in place on defense.
They said it was about fundamentals.
If the defense has all the talent in place AND they believe in the scheme…why shouldn’t they be a top tier run defense?
July 17th, 2009 at 8:51 am
I am starting to think Marshall might be on to something. If he has the linebackers playing downhill….maybe this can work
***
Seattle had Lofa Tatupu, Julian Peterson & Leroy Hill at LB. Darryl Tapp & Patrick Kerney at DE and Rocky Bernard at DT.
If Ellis, Burgess, Scott, Morrison, Howard and Kelly can match that level of intensity we will win many games (maybe
imo. which is considered “many” for us. haha
July 17th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Dude in here with the AM crew?
Well all rightee then!
The key to the run defense being a top 10-15 unit is the offense, and 3rd down defense. Those are the two areas to focus on as those two things will directly impact the run attempts against us.
I’ll say it again, our 3rd down defense last year was a HUGE problem. We just couldn’t get off the field in the favorable 3rd down situations. Hopefully we see improved QB pressure on 3rd down this season.
We’ve been over the offensive thing enough, you know my position on that.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:53 am
RR,
Here are my #s:
1- Miller: leads the team in catches with 80+ catches and 1000+ yards. ( he makes the PB)
2- Chaz: 60 catches for 800 yards
3- JLH: 45+ catches for 700 yards
4- DMC: 45 catches for 500 yards
5- all others WRs have 40 -50 catches at the most for 500/600 yards.
That means JR will throw for 3000 -3600 yards.
I say 20 TDs and 11 INTs.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:54 am
Rockstar,
I was on record as saying that upgrades were needed all along the D-Line and more competition at the LB.
But if the Raiders didn’t think that Kelly couldn’t play at Tommie Harris’ level or Gerard Warren at Albert Haynesworth’s level when healthy….then wouldn’t they have made an upgrade?
If they didn’t think that Morrison and Howard couldn’t become machines out there….or that Ricky Brown and Jon Alston couldn’t man the SLB…wouldn’t they have upgraded. I am being serious by the way.
Maybe they see something….again, if they have all the tools…then they should be a top 15 run defense and a top 10 overall defense.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:56 am
Here Dude, I found 1, yes only 1 for you
…………………………………………….
Wide Receiver | Junior | Maryland Darrius Heyward-Bey
Height: 6-15/8 | Weight: 210 | 40-Time: 4.30
Official Bio
Strengths:
A smooth, fluid athlete…Long strider with rare speed…Explosive with great acceleration and a burst…Quick and agile…Terrific height and bulk with long arms…Excellent leaper…Nice body control and ball skills…Tough and not afraid to work the middle…Vertical threat who can separate…Also a dangerous weapon on reverses…Great work ethic…Could also contribute as a return man…Still has a ton of upside.
Weaknesses:
Is inconsistent catching the ball and does not have great natural hands…Questionable instincts and awareness…Still very raw as a route runner…Not much wiggle and won’t make people miss…Doesn’t break a lot of tackles…Average strength…Marginal blocker…Has little or no special teams experience…Wasn’t real productive..Workout Warrior?
Notes:
A three-year starter in the ACC…Was a track All-American in high school…Redshirted in 2005…A two-time All-ACC selection…Featured prominently in the Maryland record books, ranking second in career receiving yards, third in receptions and is tied for third in touchdown catches…Was grossly underutilized in the Terrapins offense and the quarterback play left much to be desired as well…Dynamic playmaker who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball…Intriguing prospect with top-flight measurables but might be a better athlete than football player…Boom or Bust type who will require some patience and development but he has all the tools to be a #1 wideout in the NFL.
——————————————————————————–
Career Statistics
Year GP Rec Yds YPC TD
2005 RS – - – -
2006 13 45 694 15.4 5
2007 13 51 786 15.4 3
2008 12 42 609 14.5 5
Totals 38 138 2,089 15.1 13
July 17th, 2009 at 8:56 am
why shouldn’t they be a top tier run defense?
***
because they passed on Raji & Brace in Rounds 1 & 2. right?
I personally would have chosen Eugene Monroe & Max Unger, but it is what it is … could have chosen Mike Mitchell 199th overall instead of Stryker Sulak!
July 17th, 2009 at 8:57 am
*My #s are subject to change due to the Oline play. lol
July 17th, 2009 at 8:58 am
JHill,
The key to a top tier defense is talent and hitting the opponent in the mouth for 4 QTRS.
I admit that I am not in the camp or OTAs. I let my opinions be known during the draft and free agency because that was the time to raise those questions and have that debate.
Now its training camp time. The Raiders have to horses they want to run with…there are only a couple of positions that will be sorted out (WR, S, LT) but the rest of the team…Cable and company are very confident they can run with them.
So I am on-board now. Marshall has coached some talented people…and they became talented because of his coaching. So maybe he brings that to Oakland.
I am serious when I say:
Top 10 defense
Top 15 run defense
Top 20 offense
Record: 8-8
July 17th, 2009 at 9:01 am
RR,
MM wasn’t going to last till the 6th RD.
No way, he had a lot interested teams.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:03 am
RRS,
Walker will not have 50 catches this year. I can’t see that.
I see Walker getting the Ron Curry treatment this year. Chaz, JLH, DHB, and Murphy will get on the field before he will.
Mark my words that DHB is going to get AT LEAST 2 deep balls thrown his way PER GAME! If you think that he is only going to come away with 2 TDs, all year, well ….
Not to mention the end arounds.
2 TDs, LOL!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:05 am
JHill,
My camp prediction is that Louis Murphy impresses to the point that they consider him for #2.
This guys work ethic and character are through the roof…and he has the (H/W/S) and experience in big-time games…that if he develops chemistry with Russell during camp and stays healthy…watch out
July 17th, 2009 at 9:08 am
A talented defense can hit people in the mouth for 4 qtrs, with talented guys, but if they give up 3rd and 5’s all game, and the offense can ‘t stay on the field, then that defense won’t be top 10-15.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:08 am
JR will throw for 3000 -3600 yards.
I say 20 TDs and 11 INTs
***
Russell’s first year as starting QB:
2400 yards, 13 TD, 8 INT
I think your prediction is right on Raider O!
Here is what some other QB’s did in thier 2nd year as starter.
Jay Cutler: 1000 yards more, 5 more TD’s, 4 more INT’s
Jason Campbell: 500 yards more, 1 more TD, 5 fewer INT’s
Carson Palmer: 900 yards more, 14 more TD’s, 6 fewer INT’s
Philip Rivers: 200 yards less, 1 less TD, 6 more INT’s (LOL!)
July 17th, 2009 at 9:09 am
Murphy #2?
That’s bold! Ahead of JLH and DHB, huh?
July 17th, 2009 at 9:10 am
jhill Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:08 am
A talented defense can hit people in the mouth for 4 qtrs, with talented guys, but if they give up 3rd and 5’s all game, and the offense can ‘t stay on the field, then that defense won’t be top 10-15.
======================================================
3rd 5 or longer should be passing downs. Now with all the speed on defense with Scott, Ellis, Burgess, Kelly, Warren and Howard….if they can’t get pressure on the QB…then that would have to rest with the coaching staff.
Especially with the cornerbacks the Raiders have going into this season
July 17th, 2009 at 9:11 am
Raider O, I love it! Those look posible and would make for 9 wins we hope!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I, for one, do not want to see Miller leading the team in catches. If this offense works like it should, he should be 3rd or 4th in catches. Both starting WRs should have more catches than the TE.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:13 am
jhill Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:09 am
Murphy #2?
That’s bold! Ahead of JLH and DHB, huh?
=======================================================
I am a Louis Murphy fan. I like what he’s said in his interviews…he’s got the size, speed etc…he went to Russell’s passing camp while not under contract….he’s vocal in camp (as a rookie), and it appears that Cable and his teammates are already raving about the kid.
Again, physical talent combined with great work ethic usually results in something pretty positive.
#2 would be a stretch…most likely number 3 though
July 17th, 2009 at 9:14 am
I say top 16 offense, and our Defense will rank between 15-20th.
Our offense will have a top 10 rushing attack, and our passing game will be improve to what ever 3000- 3600 gets us. lol
2000-2200 rushing.
3000- 3500 passing.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:14 am
Which is why I say that 3rd down defense is so important for us this year, SnB. It let us down repeatedly last year and cost us games we should have won, and really put our defense in a bad spot.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:17 am
It really isn’t that big of a stretch. I think it will be between him and DHB, as you know I think JLH is best suited for the slot. I think it would be an ideal situation for Murphy and DHB to end up moving JLH to #4 on the depth chart. I would have no problem with that.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:17 am
Murphy #2? Ehhhh, that’s a stretch if you ask me… Maybe in 3 years.
My predicted WR’s:
1. Chaz Schilens
)
2. Darrius Heyward-Bey (just looks better spelled out
3. Javon Walker/JLH if he can’t get his head out of his arse.
4. Murphy
“O”, I love the PB prediction for Miller. Remember earlier I said Heyward-Bey and the deep ball will force single coverage on Miller getting him his first 1,000 yard season? Well, shoot that might get him a PB too! Can’t wait bro, it’s getting closer!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:18 am
As long are we open up the offense with more 3WR sets, and get out of that stale I formation, then Chaz, DHB, Murphy, and JLH will all see the ball.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Look preseason has not even started yet so to say Murphy is better than DHB. DHB is better than Murphy. Etc. etc. really has to relavence yet. I will say this it is poitive to hear that Murphy is catching on well with the QBs and being vocal. With this being said, what is the problem? I want them botht o be good they are Raiders now.
AZ Raider I know a couple of guys out of the Delware area that siad the same thing. That DHB dropping the ball was overrated. I guess if you can’t question a WRs speed, physicalness or size you go for the hands. Now do I think he has hands like Crabtree? NO! I was a Crabtree fan but looking back I don’t think Crabtree fits into our system and I was intrigued by DHB as well. I felt at the time that DHB with his numbers seemd to have the most upside. He played in a NFL run first system and he is big, fast deadly on a reverse or short screen and he could go deep with that 4.3 speed or out muscle some DBs on the jump ball. Not to mention Delaware’s QBs were garbage!!!! So it forces WRs to find ways to get open and make plays on jump balls come back to the balls etc. Pass happy offenses usually have timing QBs that put the ball were WRs are use to making plays. Plus, DHB was double teamed all year and found ways to get open. He was Delawares offense that is why he also had rushing yards as well.
The #1 reason I want DHB to do well is he seems like he is a high character young man. Crabtree has prime time two “I am the team” written all over him. We actually stuck to our guns and went for high character talent guys this time around and I like that.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Here is my attempt at being optimistic for the 2009 season!
If:
1. we don’t feature Fargas in the run game
2. we don’t pull Henderson from the starting LT spot
3. we don’t allow Green to stay at RT
4. we don’t start Walker ahead of DHB, Chaz, Murphy or JLH
5. the defense improves under Marshall by 15%
6. Russell continues to improve
7. McFadden stays healthy
8. Bush gets more carries than Fargas
9. our o-line improves to the point where Miller can be used more in the passing game
10. Mitchell or Huff plays well at S
11. Tommy Kelly is 100% healthy
12. Sands is done grieving over his mommy
13. G. Warren shows up for 75% of the games
14. Tom Cable no longer needs plays drawn up for him
then we might go 9-7 and win the division!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:21 am
Will improve…
Jhill,
I say miller leads the team in catches for 2 reasons:
1- he’s JR’s Fav target so far. We will throw short passed to the RBs, and TEs to keep the D guessing. That’s why we drafted another blocking TE, and we gave him a contract.
Free Miller!!
2- Miller had 65+ catches last year and we were really bad at passing. 15 more catches is an extra catch a game. Very possible.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:21 am
forgot one
15. If Satele’s shoulder is 100% healthy and that truly was the reason he was such a pu$$y last season…
July 17th, 2009 at 9:22 am
Raider O: here are some more examples of QB’s around the league … what they did in their 2nd full years as starters
Trent Edwards: 1000 more yards, 4 more TD’s, 2 more INT’s
Tom Brady: 900 more yards, 10 more TD’s, 2 more INT’s
Matt Schaub: 800 more yards, 6 more TD’s, 1 more INT
Donovan McNabb: 100 fewer yards, 4 more TD’s, 1 fewer INT
David Garrard: 100 more yards, 3 fewer TD’s, 10 more INT’s (LOL!)
***
3200 yards, 17-20 TD’s and 8-10 INT’s would be solid progress from JaMarcus Russell. That would also be enough to win us 8 ballgames imo
July 17th, 2009 at 9:23 am
typo! David Garrard threw for 1100 more yards
July 17th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Otherwise….I see us finishing at 6-10…winning one or two at the end of the season to keep the Kool-Aid lovers hopes alive for 2010!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Just want to remind everyone about JLH. He’s our punt/kick return/Devin Hester.
I don’t want his return game to slip, so I’d rather see him focus on that than being a WR. Hester is a prime example…
July 17th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Free Miller!
Free 408’s IP!
Free Dell!
Free 4eva!
Free your mind, and don’t be a REP! lol
July 17th, 2009 at 9:26 am
I will take a WRs producing any order we can get it man.
I wonder what Arman Shields can do besides get hurt and sit on the sidelines. He would have to have a heck of a camp to actually stick.
I guess we don’t know what WRs will be hurt by the start of the season anyway. Look at last years WRS that went down.
Does anyone know if Toomer is still out there in free agency? I would like to see another veteran besides Walker out there. You never know who will show up.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:28 am
AZ Raider Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Just want to remind everyone about JLH. He’s our punt/kick return/Devin Hester.
I don’t want his return game to slip, so I’d rather see him focus on that than being a WR. Hester is a prime example…
—————————————————–
AZR I would not want to see that either but you have to get a guy like JLH in the passing game to make plays when no else is able to do it. Does not make sense to leave a TD or Two on the field when you got a guy like that who can make a play or two as a WR.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:29 am
Raider O, Free your mind & your ass will follow!!!
Dakota, this is the most positive I’ve seen your posts about the Raiders & I agree 100%. “IF we don’t” is exactly how I feel about it too, especially 5. the defense improves under Marshall by 15%. This is the most we will agree about this year; If we dont…
lol
July 17th, 2009 at 9:32 am
RaiderTW…..that might not be all we agree about this year…I loved Obama’s speech yesterday…how ’bout them apples?
July 17th, 2009 at 9:33 am
AZ & RR,
Miller had 65+ catches
Chaz had 23-25 catches and he didn’t play much. At 1st he was used to block!
Not very hard to go from 65 to 80 catches, or from 25 to 60 ( that’s a little over 2 extra catches a game)
JR had 2300 yards 13TDs and 8 INTs, and we he had 2 diff HCs, 2 diff play callers, and he had bad OTs!!
700 more yards and 7 more TDs is not much to ask after we kept our HC and play caller, if the New OTs play well. Mario is not new, but I still don’t know what be can do. It can’t be worse that K Harris!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:33 am
Do not underestimate Johnnie Lee Higgins. The guy made for a pretty nice receiving target when he was given the chance to start. He also made some huge plays in the games he played.
He is going into his 3rd year. As Kirk Morrison said, the game starts to slow down at that time.
If JLH is the guy grabbing catches and making plays…I would have no problem with him lining up as the #2.
Prior to the draft…I was fine with him going in as the #2 anyway.
There are full-time receivers that perform at the same height and weight as JLH. Steve Smith anyone?
July 17th, 2009 at 9:35 am
JHill,
3rd down defense is part of the overall defensive package. A team like the Raiders…built to stop the pass…should have no problem on 3rd downs
July 17th, 2009 at 9:35 am
Russell’s first year as starting QB:
2400 yards, 13 TD, 8 INT
***
If Russell had a soph year like David Garrard his stats next year would be: 3500 yards, 10 TD’s & 18 INT’s
If Russell had a soph year like Philip Rivers his stats next year would be: 2200 yards, 12 TD’s & 14 INT’s
yipes! let’s hope the transfer to Tollner & Hackett as coaches is a successful one …
July 17th, 2009 at 9:36 am
TW,
I was going to say:
Free your mind, and do dr…! But Making fun of Reps was the better choice IMO. lol
July 17th, 2009 at 9:37 am
The wide receiver competition this year is going to be outstanding.
Chaz, JLH, Murphy, D-HB and Walker all jockeying to be a #1 or #2…
Shields, Watkins and others trying like hell to stick as the number 6.
Should be interesting
July 17th, 2009 at 9:39 am
I’m playing!! Don’t do drugs!!!
Look at Dude! Please don’t do drugs like crack.
Legalize it!!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:41 am
O,
Miller had 65 catches b/c no one else could get open. No knock on Miller at all. I’d like to see his catches go down be default, in that the WRs are getting more look. I think Millers TDs should go way up, say 8 or 9. But his catches should go down.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:42 am
RaiderTW…..that might not be all we agree about this year
————
You are right there, you might be surprised I’m not completely sold on Pres. O. We still have a patriot Act & wire tapping!!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Shouldn’t but they do b/c of no pass rush.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:43 am
Look at Dude! Please don’t do drugs like crack
***
hey you accused me of being on crack this week and we’re friends! BSJ says i’m not “lucid” and we’re proud members of the Southwick fan club together. Dakota & I spat sometimes and we’re the only Republicans in this joint. TW nicknamed me “Ted Nugent” and we’re on the same team.
Dude is your brother. don’t smack him around too much or he’ll take his ball and go home (like Bobby)
July 17th, 2009 at 9:46 am
jhill Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Shouldn’t but they do b/c of no pass rush.
=======================================================
Hopefully Marshall get a little more creative with the LBs and Safeties.
Hopefully Morrison and Howard combine for more than 2 sacks in a season…still have to scratch my head on that one. Jon Alston also brings speed.
Also, Scott, Burgess and Ellis are pass rushers.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:48 am
Dakota Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:32 am
RaiderTW…..that might not be all we agree about this year…I loved Obama’s speech yesterday…how ’bout them apples?”
I appreciate that you are open minded enough to think these types of things, let alone admit it to us.
Having a kid really changes your perspective, at least it did for me. Then again I have the feeling that DJ(Dakota Jr) isn’t your first.
Speaking of which, getting any sleep lately? I don’t have a ton of memories from when my boy was first born, just because I was exausted from no sleep. The pictures of me are hilarious, I look so wrecked, worse than my college days!
Post #168 was the sh1t by the way!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:50 am
good morning AZ, Jhill, Dogg …
July 17th, 2009 at 9:54 am
Where’s Gabby with my cheesed grits, scrambled eggs, and cantalope?
July 17th, 2009 at 9:54 am
No coffee, just water, puhleeze.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:56 am
I’m on vacation at 3:30pm today, Gabby!! Beers for everybody & I’ll have a shot of “Blackhole”!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:00 am
# priesttj Says:
July 16th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Dlineman biggest asset is leverage when you play tooo high it compromises your power. If they keep their pads low with that size and power it’s l,ike playing against a diffeent player.
—–
# priesttj Says:
July 16th, 2009 at 11:06 pm
Trust me Dwaine Board’s biggest task is to get these guy’s to consistently stay low.
Gnite guy’s
Adios!
———-
———–
padlevel. ive been saying this about our DL for 3-4 years now. they play with terrible padlevel. if someone finally figures out how to get the front 4 to play with better leverage, consistently, we should improve by 10-15 spots overall defensively.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:00 am
I’m $410.00 poorer, but i just orderd my custom Miller and Schilens jerseys! HURRAH!!!!!!! 6-8 weeks though to get them
July 17th, 2009 at 10:07 am
CantstandtheHaters Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:00 am
padlevel. ive been saying this about our DL for 3-4 years now. they play with terrible padlevel. if someone finally figures out how to get the front 4 to play with better leverage, consistently, we should improve by 10-15 spots overall defensively
=======================================================
This is a veteran defense with a coaching staff that is stressing fundamentals. I would be very disappointed if something like what you mentioned becomes an issue again this year
July 17th, 2009 at 10:16 am
The one thing about this season is there are no excuses. No coaching drama with the owner. Same guy from last year. No Rob Ryan. Everyone’s healthy. WRs have been upgraded. Kwame’s gone, as is Grove. TK and Warren are 100%.
Zero excuses.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:20 am
Dude is your brother. don’t smack him around too much or he’ll take his ball and go home (like Bobby)
**************************************************
Well, Well, Well if it isnt wannaberocker trying to tell every body how he wally-pipped me!!! Listen here little fella Its obvious that being a republican has got you soooo turned around that you not only think you “smacked” me around to much, and the raiders will have a winning season!!! here it is bud, 5-11 at best our defense is horrible and our O-line is on par with the defense!!! And also I read this every day And I hear yuo say my name ALOT its one thing to miss me Its another to be overly obsesed with some internet personality!!! your wierd my fri-end.
I would contribute on the regular but you wally pippin window licking short bus riding (no sflifer not the yellow bus) Al davis loving baffoons make me take more p!lls then I should just to stay sane!!!
Hey A Z
you should have spent your $$$ on box of grits and a 40ounce of colt 45 then you would be happy with the return at leat!!! 410$$ for two shirts?!?!?!?! What have they done to earn your hard earned $$$ huh?!??! LOSE 6 years in a row!!!! WOW some-peoples kidz. Ohwell
So in conclusion!!!!!! wannabe rocker I dnt want to hear you talking about being jealous about taking my ballz home if they wernt in your mouth 75% of the time you would have not noticed I took them and left!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:21 am
I hate work but love $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ man Ive been busy
July 17th, 2009 at 10:23 am
jhill Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:16 am
The one thing about this season is there are no excuses. No coaching drama with the owner. Same guy from last year. No Rob Ryan. Everyone’s healthy. WRs have been upgraded. Kwame’s gone, as is Grove. TK and Warren are 100%.
Zero excuses.
*********************
Finaly some one who calls it true!!!!!!
ZERO TOLERANCE for this CRAP!!!!!!!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:24 am
From SI.COM Ross Tucker:
So when a guy like Stryker Sulak gets cut by the Raiders prior to signing a contract or attending training camp, what kind of monetary compensation does he receive for attending OTAs?
– Ted Castaneda, Saskatoon, SK Canada
Players receive $130 per workout in the offseason and because Sulak was cut before signing a contract, it is extremely unlikely he will receive anything remotely close to the approximately $70,000 signing bonus he would have received in a rookie contract from the Raiders. Either Sulak performed extremely poorly in the offseason workouts or the Raiders have a lack of respect for either draft choices, in general, or their own scouting department, in particular. It’s hard to believe they wouldn’t even give their draft pick a chance to perform with shoulder pads.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/ross_tucker/07/17/mail/index.html?eref=T1
July 17th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Hey A Z
you should have spent your $$$ on box of grits and a 40ounce of colt 45 then you would be happy with the return at leat!!! 410$$ for two shirts?!?!?!?! What have they done to earn your hard earned $$$ huh?!??! LOSE 6 years in a row!!!! WOW some-peoples kidz. Ohwell
……………………………………………….
I dont know if you knew this, but this is a Raiders blog. Most Raider fans buy jerseys of players they love, last i checked. Maybe you should buy one to go next to your silk-screened Rivers jersey. And yeah $410.00 is pretty cheap for 2 custom stitched jerseys, but thanks silk-screen LOL!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Hey Dogg, thanks for the kind words. Actually, I have a 15 year old son and the new one is still just a bun in the oven….so we are getting plenty of sleep now to make up for what we will lose in a few months!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:25 am
RR,
LMAO,dude, that was diff.
We were both playing, and I called you that after the Southwick comments!
As for the Rep comments, you know I like you and respect you. Same for Dakota, but I like making fun of Rep.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:26 am
Morning Nation!!!!
Read BSJ’s thing on Southwick the other day (good read) and got me thinking a little. First, with his religious beliefs, doesn’t that bar him from playing on Sundays? We know this because we drafted a guy, Eli Herring, from BYU who announced before the draft that he would not play in the NFL due to his religious beliefs. Yet Al still drafted him, amazing.
That was also the same draft as Joe Aska. So in 1995 we used a 3rd rounder on a RB with (ahem) vision issues, and used a 6th on a religious freak who said he would not play and held his word. Quite the draft of characters I would say (also Barret Robbins in the 2nd).
July 17th, 2009 at 10:26 am
AZ,
Are you saying that scouting report DIDNT say is hands were a weakness?
July 17th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Hey, it’s Boberts aka Brian! What’s up my little hillybilly friend!
For those who don’t know, Boberts is one of Brian’s new blog personalities. But he’s still the same old angry little redneck who’s obsessed with women’s fashion. Go figure.
Great to see you on here so early, now I have someone to kick around until the Lady Raccoon shows up. By the way – this is the only place the Lady Raccoon does show up. Because she sure doesn’t keep her appointments with me. What a skank!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Who is this Bob character anyway? Keep reading and keep your comments to yourself unless you have some football to talk there buddy.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:28 am
Dakota Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Here is my attempt at being optimistic for the 2009 season!
If:
1. we don’t feature Fargas in the run game
2. we don’t pull Henderson from the starting LT spot
3. we don’t allow Green to stay at RT
4. we don’t start Walker ahead of DHB, Chaz, Murphy or JLH
5. the defense improves under Marshall by 15%
6. Russell continues to improve
7. McFadden stays healthy
8. Bush gets more carries than Fargas
9. our o-line improves to the point where Miller can be used more in the passing game
10. Mitchell or Huff plays well at S
11. Tommy Kelly is 100% healthy
12. Sands is done grieving over his mommy
13. G. Warren shows up for 75% of the games
14. Tom Cable no longer needs plays drawn up for him
then we might go 9-7 and win the division!!!!!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
well now… that is quite the list…
lemme add a coupla things…
15. if we don’t run, run, go deep every series…
16. if we don’t play smashmouth with McFadden inside…
and, last but not least…
17. if we don’t have the victory dinner prior to the game…
we win the division…
July 17th, 2009 at 10:30 am
Dude,
I posted 2 reports. One above that one, which was the norm, and that little one about his hands being suspect. I’m just showing you I saw a report that confirms what you said, but most of them said this….
……………………………………………….
AZ Raider Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Darrius Heyward-Bey Scouting Report
Projected Draft Position
by FFToolbox Writers
Ben Standig’s 5/1 Mock Draft Not selected
User Predictions for Where
Darrius Heyward-Bey will be drafted
1st Round
1
Position: WR
School & Year/Status: Maryland – Drafted
Jersey Number: #8
Height & Weight: 6′3 – 206 lbs.
Ranked #23 on our Top 100 Prospects Board
Drafted 1.7 by OAK
NFL Combine Results
40-Yard Dash 4.30
Bench press 16
Vertical jump 38.5
Broad jump 10′6
Three-cone drill 6.80
20-yard shuttle 4.18
See All Combine Results
2009 NFL Draft Prospect Scouting Report:
person
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
It did not take long for Darrius Heyward-Bey to make his mark on the Maryland football program. After redshirting in 2005, Heyward-Bey led the team with 45 receptions, 694 yards and five receiving touchdowns. For his efforts, he earned a variety of All-ACC and All-America honors from various sources. As a sophomore Heyward-Bey cemented his status as one of the best receivers in the Atlantic Coast Conference, catching 51 passes for 786 yards and three touchdowns. Due to a lack of a quarterback to get him the ball, Heyward-Bey’s numbers will never be that impressive at the collegiate level, but he has all the skills to be an effective pass catcher in the NFL.
It all starts with his size and toughness. At 6-3 and 206 pounds, there are taller receivers out there, but few can combine that size with athleticism that matches Heyward-Bey. The junior has used that athleticism to become one of the best jump-ball threats in the nation. Heyward-Bey also has the speed to match just about any other receiver in this class.
With his combination of size, speed and strength, Heyward-Bey could be a first round selection. He will need to put up good numbers at the combine to prove it (since his collegiate production is lacking due to an incapable passing offense in Maryland), but Heyward-Bey should not disappoint when he shows his stuff for the NFL scouts.
10/26 Update: After a horrible start to the season when Maryland barely beat Delaware and then lost to Middle Tennessee, the Terrapins have won six of their last seven games and are tied with Florida State atop the ACC Atlantic standings. The offense still struggles at times, but that has little to do with Heyward-Bey. In eight games the receiver has caught 25 passes for 404 yards and four touchdowns. In an effort to get their playmaker the ball more often, Heyward-Bey has even tallied nine rushes for 202 yards and a score. He is not going to put up huge numbers like some other receivers, but Heyward-Bey is still a first round talent.
1/13 Update: The lack of offense at Maryland kept Heyward-Bey’s numbers down all year long. He ended the year with just 42 receptions for 609 yards and five touchdowns. He also carried the ball 15 times for 202 yards and a score. Those numbers would not get any better next year and Heyward-Bey knows that he will be one of the top three or four receivers in the upcoming draft. Thus, he opted to skip out on his senior season with the Terps and will be playing on Sundays next season.
3/24 Update: Heyward-Bey’s speed is his biggest asset and he certainly showed everybody how fast he is at the NFL Combine. He is not a short possession receiver who is nothing but fast. With his size and speed, he should be a first round pick. However, his lack of collegiate production is a concern for many teams and that could drop him into the early second round.
4/16 Update: Heyward-Bey worked out for the Raiders recently and if they want him, they either have to take him with the seventh overall pick in the draft or trade down. Even if the Maryland receiver does not end up in Oakland, he will not have to wait too long to have his name called on draft day. Michael Crabtree is still the top receiver in the class, but Heyward-Bey could surpass Jeremy Maclin when all is said and done.
Last Updated Apr-16-2009 by Joel Welser
July 17th, 2009 at 10:31 am
What’s up Bob?
AZ,
$410!! I knew I should have went to service!! Damn Sales!!! lol
July 17th, 2009 at 10:31 am
Dont see anything in there (or most reports) about having weak hands…
July 17th, 2009 at 10:32 am
oops, sorry “O”. I buy 2 jerseys a year… Its in the budget
July 17th, 2009 at 10:32 am
The best write-up on the Raider QB position I have seen in the media.
UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS
QUARTERBACKS
Starter – JaMarcus Russell. Backups – Jeff Garcia, Bruce Gradkowski, Charlie Frye, Andrew Walter, Danny Southwick.
While much of the conventional wisdom nationally is that Russell is a bust-in-waiting, the Raiders are counting on his progress over the last seven games — an 88.5 passer rating, seven TD passes, four interceptions, two season-ending wins — as evidence of his ascension. The next step for Russell is proving he can carry the offense if the running game bogs down. Garcia serves as both insurance should Russell be injured and as a veteran presence who will push the quarterback of the future to greater heights. It’s an organizational setback if Garcia wins the job. Gradkowski and Frye will compete to be the mobile No. 3 quarterback, while Andrew Walter waits to get cut. Southwick is a camp arm.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/report/OAK/11960654
July 17th, 2009 at 10:32 am
last year was ASO and DAMC
July 17th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Are you guys getting a pop-up every time you click on this page? WTF?
July 17th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Dude,
still reading???
July 17th, 2009 at 10:35 am
RR,
Ted Nugent!!! LMAO
Now that’s funny!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:36 am
It’s OK Dude, I don’t fault anyone for being mad at the Raiders for the past 6 seasons, but lets give credit where credit is due. We got the right guy for what we are trying to do.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:36 am
WIDE RECEIVERS
Starters – Johnnie Lee Higgins, Chaz Schilens. Backups – Darrius Heyward-Bey, Javon Walker, Jonathan Holland, Louis Murphy, Nick Miller, Arman Shields, Samie Parker, Shawn Bayes, Todd Watkins, Will Franklin.
Decent finishes to last season by Higgins and Schilens were a bright spot to a staggeringly non-productive unit in 2008. Higgins had touchdown receptions of 84, 56 and 29 yards included in his four scores, much of it coming after the catch. At 6-feet-4, 225 pounds, Schilens had touchdown receptions in each of the last two games and his jump-and-catch skill is one reason why Michael Crabtree was bypassed in favor of speedy Purdue wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey. Heyward-Bey was slowed by a hamstring pull in the offseason, but is counted on as a clear-out threat even if his production comes later rather than sooner. Walker agreed to a reduced contract then decided to have knee surgery, saying he hasn’t been healthy since being a Raider. Murphy, a rookie from Florida, may be farther along than Heyward-Bey and could be more productive initially. Shields, a fourth-round pick in 2008, must prove he can put practices together with a slow-to-recover knee impeding his progress. Watkins made the roster with a strong camp last year and will need another one to stick.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/report/OAK/11960654
July 17th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Dakota Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Hey Dogg, thanks for the kind words. Actually, I have a 15 year old son and the new one is still just a bun in the oven….so we are getting plenty of sleep now to make up for what we will lose in a few months!!!!”
Well then I may turn to you for advice, my son is only 3. 15 years is just long enough to forget what it was like. Ha ha suckers! Just kidding bro, that’s awesome.
Tell your lovely wife that your buddy from the blog says congratulations as well! She probably thinks the majority of us are nuts, if we are anything like her husband
July 17th, 2009 at 10:38 am
# SnB Defense Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:07 am
This is a veteran defense with a coaching staff that is stressing fundamentals. I would be very disappointed if something like what you mentioned becomes an issue again this year
=======================================================
gotto give Kiffin some props here cause he was the one that started talking about padlevel after his first season where we gave up two QB sneaks from 5 yrads out. ouch. i still remember those two plays too, in Min and vs th eJags. we got better last year though, but we all know it wasnt anything reliable.
but love the fact it is still on the agenda and stronger then ever at that. with even Terdell showing professionalism, how can you not look forward to the season? even with the release of a future HOF in Sulak, we had a pretty decent offseason in general.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:39 am
AZ,
Bro,
I’m so cheap that if I spend $410 at once, I might kill my self.
Anything over $100 goes on credit!!! This way I pay in a few payments to make me feel better. lol
July 17th, 2009 at 10:40 am
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
Starters – LE Jay Richardson, NT Gerard Warren, DT Tommy Kelly, RE Greg Ellis. Backups – DT Terdell Sands, DT Ryan Boschetti, DT William Joseph, DE Desmond Bryant, DE Derrick Burgess, DE Derrick Gray, DE Greyson Gunheim, DE Matt Shaughnessy, DE Trevor Scott.
Ellis joins an existing unit that has lots of room for improvement across the board, and will be counted on to provide leadership as well as another pass rush threat. Kelly’s play did not justify his $18.125 million guaranteed bonus, and the company line is that Year 2 following ACL surgery will bring much improvement. Warren continues to run hot-and-cold, Sands hasn’t been the run defender the Raiders expected and Boschetti was brought in at Cable’s urging to bring a jump-start to practices and games. Burgess’ sack totals have dwindled from 16 to 11 to 8 to 4. He’s in the last year of his contract and a role as a nickel rusher could suit him. Scott was a rookie success story with five sacks. Gunheim closed with a strong effort against Tampa Bay in the finale, and the hope is Shaughnessy is a stout presence as a base end as a rookie.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/report/OAK/11960654
July 17th, 2009 at 10:43 am
hey bobby wats shakin bud!!!! LOL dooes anyone else think its funny AGAIN EVERY TIME EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!! that Duder shows up then Bobby, then beechnut….just wonderin if anyone else has noticed!!!?????
WIERD HUH???????????? Shills and trolls I geuss…..
Either way good to see ya bobby howz ur mom??? still taking the bart to the dayshift at el pollo loco or is it the swing at mickie D’s dang I cant keep up!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Has anyone ever joined one of these Raider’s official booster clubs. Met this dude who runs the Vegas chapter out here, he seems kind of crazy and it is like $100 a year, but they do charity stuff and seems legit. Just curious if anyone has ever done it.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:44 am
“O” no credit cards for me bro, I’m terrible with them. I just stash a little cash in the safe every month to pay for stuff I don’t really need, like Jerseys, electronic gadgets, and stuff like that…
July 17th, 2009 at 10:47 am
AZ Raider Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Who is this Bob character anyway? Keep reading and keep your comments to yourself unless you have some football to talk there buddy.
************************************
HAHAHHA LOL@ this kid from AZ telling me about a blog Ive been posting on since he was an 8th grader at Pheniox school for the deaf…..
If you have to ask you dnt wana know!!!!
I have plebty to say about the radiers here it goes
quit wasting draft picks signing overpriced FA Stop drafting for speed stop switching coaches and or staff every year cut off the Oxygen mask already Hire a GM stop stealing $$$ from season ticket holders jsut cause you dnt care dsnt mean we dnt and last but not least Quit letting people like AZ Support you when you havnt givin him any return on his CASH for about 8yrs now!!!!!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:48 am
AZ,
I never said I was good with’em, Visa owns most of my property!! lol
I’m living the American dream!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:51 am
Hey look its SFlifer,
How you doin Pal im ok Mom is fine she says you still owe her like 10 bucks for that thing…….
I dnt even eat at MickiDs so nice try why dnt yuo try to geuss what you internet gangster tough guy lover wannabe does for a livin and back up off deeezzzz nutzzzz…or you my friend will be wallypipped I’ll send of a hate email to have you banned quicker than AZ busts when he hits a fly one!!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:51 am
S&B: Just dismiss those write ups from cbs sports…
Southwick is a camp arm & DHB went to Purdue? LOL
Idiots!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:51 am
Tiger might miss the cut at the British, that would be amazing. Odds on that happening would have to be 200 or 300 to 1.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:54 am
“his jump-and-catch skill is one reason why Michael Crabtree was bypassed in favor of speedy Purdue wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey. ”
LOL@ CBS Sports!!!! Friends of urs bobby they have all the “INSIDE” info sounds like!!!!!!!LOL!!LMFAO!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:58 am
you my friend will be wallypipped I’ll send of a hate email to have you banned quicker than AZ busts when he hits a fly one!!!!!!
***
LOL! Bobby is in rare form today
now i’m an “internet gangster tough guy lover” ? This guy cracks me up. Why does OAKlifer owe your mom money? was he a sp3rm doner?
Bobby, do us all a favor and ask your janitor boyfriend at HQ for the real reason Sulak got canned!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Victor V!codin is in the house!
July 17th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Tiger might miss the cut at the British
nahhhhh he be ok!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:00 am
Bobby: quick question – you’ll like this one.
Who should start Week 1 on MNF? Jeff Garcia or Danny Southwick?
July 17th, 2009 at 11:04 am
Hey Bobby,
Live in Phoenix now but grew up in Stockton Ca. and a few years in Pleasanton. While you were blogging I was taking the Bart to the Games… LOL
July 17th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Nice here in Phoenix though cause if we sell out or not, I’m watching the game! Miss going to the games but it really p*ssed me off when they got blacked out…. NO MORE LOL! Sunday ticket baby!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:09 am
dogg thank for the luv!!!!!!! Its victoer hydrocodone to you tho!!!!!
“LOL! Bobby is in rare form today”
Yes rocker you could say that usaally I pop a few when I start reading this regurgation but today poped right when I woke up som I was “in FORM” b4 I signed in!
SFlifer pays my mother for nakies of her last boyfriend Not sure why he does it but mom has a lot of jobs and exposing freaks and ex’s is one of them!!! SFlifer is a wierd dude but ohwell He loves Al Davis righ tso he must be cool!!!!
“Bobby, do us all a favor and ask your janitor boyfriend at HQ for the real reason Sulak got canned!”
This Wannaberocker,this is an easy one even my source shouldnt have to explain it to you…..But Iwill try to help your feeble little mind…here it goes HE WAS A SIxTH ROUND PICK WHO CARES THE GUYS A BUM HE WILL BE PLAYING BACK UP TWEENER WHERE EVER HE LANDS save the $$ for the real contracts not 6th rounders who are tweeners. Cme on wanna be even with yuor helmet wearing A$$ you should have been abel to figure that one out!!
WHATS UP O how is SD bro!!!!
and as for you AZ SILK SCREEEN MY Ballllzzzz that wannabe is on all the time real fans have real jerseys/// B.Jackson/H.long/Southwick/Plunkett/Lester
those were purchased when the team deserved my $$$ I would be willing to bet yuor under 25 and dnt even remembver the last REAL winning done around here????
July 17th, 2009 at 11:10 am
“Its victoer hydrocodone to you tho!!!!!”
lmao
July 17th, 2009 at 11:13 am
I’m 31 Bobby, I have a Plunket, Shell, Long, Lamonica, Jackson, Allen, Gannon, Garner, Brown, Rice (yes #80), McFadden, Asomugha, and on its way Miller and Schilens.
Anything else?
July 17th, 2009 at 11:16 am
thought I’d Rep the San Diego kid before his time, but I like him. Glad he’s a Cali guy too.
July 17th, 2009 at 11:19 am
see you guys next week…I am outta here!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Who should start Week 1 on MNF? Jeff Garcia or Danny Southwick?
Either one Garcia is the best QB on our roster followed by Southwick and since SW has the Arm he fits the O better and he will /should be starting over tub o flub bye week 3 JaFatmus should be mowing AZ’s dirt and tumble weeds for a living this guy is a joke!!
Top ten nicnames for we know who!!!
1. Lunch box
2. wing stop
3. in and out
4.WTF is that a tackle or gaurd???
5.tuns o fun
6. wannabe’s dad
7.cabel’s demise
8. fatty mcgee
9. fat and fatter
10. A Z Raider
July 17th, 2009 at 11:23 am
wow boberts on one today back up!!!! LOL
July 17th, 2009 at 11:24 am
Good one Bobbme…
July 17th, 2009 at 11:24 am
NOOOOOOOOOOOO Montana dnt leave you didnt even say hi!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:26 am
how ever this is clever for all the Haters out there!!! lol to this bobby this might be your best post yet..
P.S. Im not a hater nor do I agree with it but it could end up being true!!
“Top ten nicnames for we know who!!!”
7.cabel’s demise
classic!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:26 am
Yeah Bobby, jeff garcia looked great last season getting his arse hadded to him by the 31st ranked defense! Your football IQ is incredible! You should be scouting talent for sure! Maybe the janitor can get you a job?
July 17th, 2009 at 11:27 am
…back in a hour guys.
July 17th, 2009 at 11:28 am
off to enjoy my p!lls they are hittin now!!! Ill be back guys dnt worry!!!!
Good one Bobbme
thats all you can come up with !!! LOL you need to see an Ocean lil buddy that sand is eatin ur brain alive!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Raider O: Bobby put me in a bad mood. time to go kill some animals for no reason!
lol
legalize Vick!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:32 am
bobertsIV Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 11:09 am
and as for you AZ SILK SCREEEN MY Ballllzzzz that wannabe is on all the time real fans have real jerseys/// B.Jackson/H.long/Southwick/Plunkett/Lester
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southwick?! I’m not sure if being a suckazz suits you, Ignatowski!
July 17th, 2009 at 11:35 am
Bob,
Things are great down here. I remember your email,so next time you come here I’ll email you my #.
RR,
LMAO
Time to go to pray. I’ll pray for all of you, especially you RR. lol
Later Gents, I’ll be back in a few hours.
July 17th, 2009 at 11:41 am
vegas raider Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:26 am
Morning Nation!!!!
Read BSJ’s thing on Southwick the other day (good read) and got me thinking a little. First, with his religious beliefs, doesn’t that bar him from playing on Sundays? We know this because we drafted a guy, Eli Herring, from BYU who announced before the draft that he would not play in the NFL due to his religious beliefs. Yet Al still drafted him, amazing.
That was also the same draft as Joe Aska. So in 1995 we used a 3rd rounder on a RB with (ahem) vision issues, and used a 6th on a religious freak who said he would not play and held his word. Quite the draft of characters I would say (also Barret Robbins in the 2nd).
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southwick is on a mission from God, Vegas. Danny is here to repay Al for the 6th rounder who Brigham Young needed elsewhere on Sundays. Sleepers and haters shall be smote.
July 17th, 2009 at 11:50 am
http://video.yahoo.com/network/100000089?v=5485051&l=100022574
July 17th, 2009 at 11:54 am
Bobby: i’m sorry to hear that those pills you’re taking for v1rgin loseritis aren’t working …
maybe Raider O will say a prayer for you and Allah will intervene on your behalf?
July 17th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
# SnB Defense Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 10:24 am
From SI.COM Ross Tucker:
So when a guy like Stryker Sulak gets cut by the Raiders prior to signing a contract or attending training camp, what kind of monetary compensation does he receive for attending OTAs?
– Ted Castaneda, Saskatoon, SK Canada
Players receive $130 per workout in the offseason and because Sulak was cut before signing a contract, it is extremely unlikely he will receive anything remotely close to the approximately $70,000 signing bonus he would have received in a rookie contract from the Raiders. Either Sulak performed extremely poorly in the offseason workouts or the Raiders have a lack of respect for either draft choices, in general, or their own scouting department, in particular. It’s hard to believe they wouldn’t even give their draft pick a chance to perform with shoulder pads.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/ross_tucker/07/17/mail/index.html?eref=T1
——————————————————
Sulak was signed as a project, to try to take over the OLB/DE position. The signing of Greg Ellis, a solid veteran, who seemingly has improved with age, made Sulak expendable. It shouldn’t be that hard to figure out especially if you claim to be a “sports writer” for SI.
July 17th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
O,
You pray 7 times a day?
July 17th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Raider O, say this prayer for me;
“Oh Lord Oooh you are so big you are So ab – solutely huge. Gosh, we’re all really impressed down here I can tell you. Forgive Us, O Lord, for this dreadful toadying. And barefaced flattery. But you are so strong and, well, just so super.
Amen.”
Thanks TW
July 17th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
It shouldn’t be that hard to figure out especially if you claim to be a “sports writer” for SI.
*******************
LOL @ these punks Bro Jerry Mac and Double R report better than 3/4 of the national media!!! He!l even KK is often times more subjective than that!!! they are no better than us “well those of us with degrees” that have had some sort of in at a swank local news paper and after summiting enough garbage to SI/Bspn/cbssports
they finaly got a shot now theye report thing like this!!!! LOL again at these chumps!!!!
~“his jump-and-catch skill is one reason why Michael Crabtree was bypassed in favor of speedy Purdue wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey. ”~CBSSPORTS
……lol
July 17th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 11:41 am
Southwick is on a mission from God, Vegas. Danny is here to repay Al for the 6th rounder who Brigham Young needed elsewhere on Sundays. Sleepers and haters shall be smote.
******************************
Just like Jake and Elwood.
July 17th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 17th, 2009 at 11:54 am
Bobby: i’m sorry to hear that those pills you’re taking for v1rgin loseritis aren’t working …
maybe Raider O will say a prayer for you and Allah will intervene on your behalf?
******************************************
LMFAO
July 17th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
[...] Read more. [...]
July 17th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
[...] to Nate Haber, the agent of Raiders sixth round pick TE Brandon Myers, his client is signing a four year deal [...]
July 18th, 2009 at 3:51 am
#2. Coach on Wheels. You forgot Oakland dominated SD for 3 quarters last year and the second time we played Denver we kicked their azz and shut their vaunted passing game DOWN.
Got a feeling Merriman will never be the same. He’s walking around bone on bone with that knee and L.T. may suddenly get “football” old next season.
We put up points and run the ball on them effectively, we should come out on top.
It’ll be a test for our new tackles thats for sure.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
[...] Stryker Sulak. This Raider fan notes that the argument that Raiders cut Stryker because of cash flow issues is bogus. Also estimates that Stryker would have received a $90-100K signing bonus. I know some Tiger fans are rejoicing that Stryker was set free by the Raiders, but that’s a lot of green he may not find elsewhere. Sucks for him. [...]