Russell takes a knee
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 12:55 pm in Oakland Raiders.
As the Raiders wrapped up the media window consisting of warmups and drills Wednesday, JaMarcus Russell took a knee and was observing while Bruce Gradkowski lined up under center with the first team offense.
Gradkowski declined to say during the open locker room session if he was the starter. Russell was not available for comment.
More to come following Tom Cable’s post-practice press briefing . . .
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November 18th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
JHill,
Al Davis has his fingerprints all over this thing. The coaches are bad AGAIN! Not a once in a while event.
DHB being drafted…Davis picked that 40x sprinter
DAvis allows the QB to come in slothful and get away with it!
Sure, the CEO is not responsible for day-to-day….but he is responsible for the results. Why? Because he is responsible for putting the pieces together to make the organization work profitably.
Davis could care less. He meddles with coaching and scouting and the draft…he makes all sorts of decisions that should be delegated…
Davis messed this up AGAIN!
November 18th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
Well here we go …
The Bruce Gradkowski era is underway. You have GOT to be kidding me!
November 18th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
So what is the plan, Cable.
Have Gradkowsko throw the ball to DHB the rest of the year to get him ready for next year?
Is Gradkowski our QB of the future?
What EXACTLY is the plan?
November 18th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
I plan on going fishing Sunday instead of tormenting myself…
November 18th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
If anyone is excited about Gradkowski or Frye has no clue about football.
We have three choices and they are all bad, bad, bad.
Two tomato cans that should be out of the league and a slothful young kid who doesn’t get it.
WHoooooHoooo
Only a Raider fan could POSSIBLY get excited Gradkowski or Frye. Better than Russell? Perhaps…but that’s not enough to compete either.
Davis has condemned this franchise. Condemned it like a burned out slum
November 18th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Michael Vick? A Al Davis type of guy.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
So wait, you guys were complaining about JR all year constantly. And now that they might bench him and start Gradkowski, your complaining that they are benching JR???
You guys are rediculous.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
All you Gradkowski bashers, whats up with that?
You are content to see this team lose every week?
Damn… myopia at its bests….
Rusell does not give the team a chance to win… he is mostly inacurate… dont you see that??
If Gradkowski can complete simple passes and keep the chains moving, we might see better days…
ALSO:
Remember one thing, Gruden drafted Gradkowski in Tampa Bay and had him as his QB, and he even had some interesting games…
Gruden knows QB’s… remember a guy named Gannon?…
November 18th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
Raider Blog Overdose! Well done Jerry!! lol
November 18th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
Maddenraiderfan / JT,
I am in no way saying that Russell is the guy.. What I am saying is that two burnouts like Frye and Gradkowski are not going to do anything either.
No way. If they had a shred of talent…they would both still be on Cleveland.
The light isn’t going to suddenly come on.
The games will look the same as they do now. Low scoring 3 and outs from the offense…and a roll of the dice on defense.
The franchised in a bad place right now!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
“Black Moses” gets benched!
Like priesttj said…by mid-season the NFL will know what we have at Qb.
We have a bust!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Gruden also cut Gradkowski fairly quickly.
Undrafted free agent from Toledo…..LOL
Frye..cut by Cleveland after 1st week of season…cut by Seattle..couldn’t even hang on as the 3rd QB.
ANd you guys think they are suddenly going to be serviceable NFL players.
The GM has no clue
November 18th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Mistabrown Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
“Black Moses” gets benched!
Like priesttj said…by mid-season the NFL will know what we have at Qb.
We have a bust!
=================================================
Yup. We do have a bust on our hands.
We have no QB…no RG, RT, C, WR, MLB, DT, SLB, Coach, Assistant Coach, GM and Owner
Its all one big blazing joke
November 18th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
All you guys that thought all Russell needed was Schilens, Gallery and DMAC back were just SLIGHTLY off weren’t you?
yes the O-line isnt very good, yes our WR’s are terrible but the sorry fact of the matter is Russell is a flat out embarrassment, a bust of Ryan Leaf proportions.
Sorry Jhill, go sit in the corner with your boy priesttj and oakglen and go suck on each other, face the wall and think about your actions.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Best case scenerio is that Russell and Gradkowski compete for the start. Russell see’s how Gradkowski preps for game and emulates him. Whomever produces during the week gets the start. Accountability is a good first step to getting things right. And it sends a message to the rest of the team that winning is a priority.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
SnB offense defense
I dont agree with you….
This team needs a reliable QB…
Do you have confidence in Rusell?… If you dont, do you thinks his receivers or OL have any? The defense?…
You have to give the team some hope… Rusell, we all know this guy is the 3 and Out magician… thats really pathetic…
All this team needs is some QB to make the simple passes, to get started on some kind of a roll….
This Gradkowski has more flair than Rusell… he is a moxy kind of QB… moves around, makes it fun to watch…
Rusell is still a bust, a mostly inacurate QB…
I prefer a acurate QB with leadership abilities and work ethic, than a guy that can throw the ball 70 yards from his knees…. cmon!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:18 pm
SnB if we had a legitimate Qb would our O-line look so bad? I dont think so. Would our WR’s be sucking as bad? No, because a legit Qb would put the ball where they can catch it on a consistent basis.
The defense made improvements under Marshall even with AL looking over his shoulder but with this offense its hard to knock the defense too much.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
There is no best case scenerio.
This gentle and delicate team cannot win.
Not with the players currently on its roster.
I still watch…I still hope they get lucky and win..
But I have no illusion that they are capable of doing such.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Bring on “The Polish Pop Gun.”
November 18th, 2009 at 1:22 pm
Mistabrown,
This team is horrible. The WRs have shown nothing. So many dropped passes that it is laughable. So no, they are horrible.
O-Line…gets overpowered against good teams…Carlisle, Green and Satele would be backups ANYWHERE else.
The team is a disaster. I am deeply, deeply disappointed with them. I have given up on them. Way too many bad players.
All I do is watch because I enjoy watching football and my favorite team is the Raiders. I no longer expect them to win.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
I hope Frye is no 2 in case Brad Satriani goes down.
JaDumbell can get comfy on the pine with a pocket full of McDoubles.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:24 pm
JT,
Get excited about Gradkowski and Frye if it gets you pumped up for the game.
I am not saying Russell should play. He is a slothful Al Davis pick.
We have no choices at all. There is nothing in the background of the three QBs to suggest otherwise.
They are not accurate…no demonstrable example, no talent…all were cut as even 3rd QB options on multiple BAD TEAMS
But in Oakland…the king of the bad teams…those tomato cans are supposed to be able to turn it on.
You will only disappoint yourself.
should have kept Walter
November 18th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Mike Vick will be starting for us in 2010. You heard it first here!!!!!!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Its hard to evaluate players when the coaching is so suspect and AL is looking over everybody’s shoulder FK’n things up.
SnB you say we need a C and I dont disagree but for arguments sake if we took the NFL”s best C and put him in our O-line would you know the difference between him and Satele ?
I say no.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Looks like Eugene will start this weekend, if Huff isn’t ready to go. Wassup w/ Mitchell? Fk’n Cable has no clue!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Gradkowski is an emergency QB, but guess what, this is an emergency…
Put him him, get some throws that are closer to the intended target, and go from there.
You don’t know what you have on the team when JR is playing.
Start a couple of games with Gradkowski, see if you can find something to build on.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Bills want to talk to Shanarat.–pft.com
November 18th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
NorthernD Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Gradkowski is an emergency QB, but guess what, this is an emergency…
Put him him, get some throws that are closer to the intended target, and go from there.
You don’t know what you have on the team when JR is playing.
Start a couple of games with Gradkowski, see if you can find something to build on.
=======================================================
I have to admit that I am killing positive thinking. Gradkowski is going to have to have learned something. He’s terrible….so is Frye…so is Russell.
I would cut one of the three and sign Losman and let him run the team as an audition for 2010
November 18th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Why do people still go to Raider games? They know the owner is trying to lose, and they still fork over thousands of dollars to him every year. Or, do they not know he’s trying to lose? Is that it? Wow. What is wrong with them?
November 18th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
I think Grad gives us the best chance to win this sunday. I am extremely happy, JR was throwing passes that not even Reggie Wayne would be able to catch it. Grad is by far more accurate and better Quarterback than JABUST. All we need is a good game plan, heavy dosage of Bush, Schillens and Murphy shoud start with JLH getting in the game, DMAC plays some wildhog and plays the slot. Defense got to be rid to stop the run and PLEASE ROUTT HOLD YOUR MAN YOU DUMB F–K, we have a chance to win with Grad. Offensive line play would be the key, if we give enough protection to Grad, Grad will get the chain moving by throwing or running. Even if we lose, it will not be a boring game like Sunday.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
They’re stuck with 3 non-NFL calibre starting quarterbacks. That’s a fact. Just pick the best of the three and go with it.
At least if Murphy starts catching the ball cleanly, and DHB keeps dropping them, then you you DHB is a problem as well.
If McFadden keeps falling then he’s a problem as well.
If Grad gets sacked then the O-line is a problem.
The season is done, so find out what else you have to fix before next year. ( Don’t laugh, I do know that it’s everything)
November 18th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
The fact that Russell has regretfully busted out does not change the fact that to win in this league you need to develop your own QB.
Problem is…the Raiders don’t have a clue on how to do it AND they don’t hire the coaching to get it done AND they don’t have a clue on how to evaulate talent in the draft.
No one gets rid of good QBs. Brees was a once in a lifetime…most end up like KFC. The best the Raiders can do is get some retread and go 7-9.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Getting excited about Rick Mirer er…Billy Joe Hobert er…Wade Wilson er…Donald Hollas er…Josh McCown er…Andre Ware er…Aaron Brooks er…Gradkowski is a mental manouevre of the most degraded form. Freaking amazing for any of y’all or the HC to think this is a good thing.
And, by the way, remember Willie Gault? Remember James Jett? DHB ain’t going anywhere so y’all might as well be supportive of the young man rather than crap on his head every chance you get. Get over it!!!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
909RaiderLifer Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
Gradkowski, aka. “The Polish Pop Gun.”
***************************************
LMAO
November 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
TrueRaider, do you go to games? If so, why? If you have thousands of dollars to blow every year, I’ll take it. Al Davis is trying to lose. And people are giving money to him. Can anyone explain that?
November 18th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
wow its funny how people used to claim they wanted brady quinn or trent edwards over russell now all of them have been benched and none of them look too good but edwards has had the most talent on his team quinn too before they traded everybody away now all 3 teams suck and so it seems do their quarterbacks
November 18th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
SnB offense defense specialteams Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
The fact that Russell has regretfully busted out does not change the fact that to win in this league you need to develop your own QB.
======================================================
I’m certain Al would disagree with you, having brought in Lamonica, Plunkett, Gannon…
Sometimes the best QB for your team is stuck as a back-up on another team…Favre???
November 18th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
[...] Read more. [...]
November 18th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Gradkowski, Frye and Russell do not give the Raiders a chance to win. I am just trying to throw cold water on all the reaching going on here.
If Gradkowski or Frye could play….they wouldn’t be back-up or 3rd string QBs on the Raiders. Patriots needed depth and a slew of teams needed backup talent.
These two guys were cut as 3rd string QBs in Seattle, Cleveland and Tampa Bay. Now you guys are saying these are “competent” QBs that can “manage” a game?
They haven’t demonstrated that to date….in some QB needy locales…
November 18th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Having watched Gradkowski at Toledo, I was surprised he was drafted. Not that he was not a good MAC QB but his arm strength was not NFL. Gruden took a flier on him and due to injuries, Gruden had to start him. The 1st few games went ok but after Def Coor’s had time to break down the film, he went to awful and Gruden yelled at him a lot and finally benched him. No reason to believe his journey to the Raiders will be different. The guy can not move a pro team. He will make us yearn for J.R. Give Frye the ball!
November 18th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Yeah the Raiders have always been the haven of second chance QB’s. I’m hoping we find a diamond in the rough. Why not other teams have. Tom Brady popped up off the sideline when Drew Bledsoe was creamed. I’m probably dreaming but, I would prefer to remain positive it sure seems like the team is staying positive why shouldn’t the fan base. Negativity isn’t going to help turn this ship around. I know that for sure. Go Raiders.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
How many consecutive losing seasons do there have to be before you guys realize you’re fans of a team being ran by someone who is trying to lose? How many half empty stadiums do you guys have to stand and cheer in before you realize that Al is doing nothing to fill the seats, and is allowing the stadium to run dry week after week?
November 18th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
who would have thought kevin kolb would look like the best qb from 07 unless flacco gets hurt and troy smith starts throwing for big numbers
November 18th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Is there anything you guys can do on Sundays other than fork your money over to Al? Why not have a bbq? You can keep all your Raider nation friends. And, what kind of friend lets you spend money on the Raiders, anyway? Friends don’t let friends give money to Al Davis! I’d really second guess your friendship with fans who go to games with you. They’re letting you fork over your kids’ college money to an NFL owner who’s trying to lose! Friends like these…
November 18th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
why are half of you b*tching, Jawalrus is out. Lets see what Gradowski or Frye can do, the season is wasted already, its not like we are going to the playoffs, lets see what Gradowski brings, yes he may not be the answer but at this point what can they do…..Russell can go back to be a a lazy fat slob, or maybe we can use Russell in the OLine dont know lets call this offensive scheme the JAWALRUSS
November 18th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
I like to Bbq at the game.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
Northern D,
Lamonica was a trade..right? At least in a trade, the QB in question has some tangible value.
These two guys are at home if not for the Raiders. They have no value.
I would have more confidence if the RAiders were to go and trade for someone else’s backup…than two vetted guys off the street who have failed miserably.
I am just saying…spare me the “Gradkowski is a gamer” rhetoric. Or Frye can be good after getting cut as a 3RD STRING QB in two QB needy teams!!!!!!!
November 18th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
SnB offense defense
I dont know why you are so down on Gradkowski…
Gradkowski is a upgrade over Rusell… He is more of a NFL QB than Rusell…
Rusell is a question mark any time he throws the ball… I have never seen any consistancy on his part… OK, his receivers drop the ball, but other times his passes are wayyyy off…. its embarrasing…
A QB should make simple throws… that has always been my argument against Rusell, acuracy….
Accuracy is equivalent to a quarterback’s completion percentage… ANDDD, a quarterback’s completion percentage indicates his accuracy and decision-making, is a much better gauge of his talent level…
Rusell sucks badly in those departments….
Hey, he can throw the ball 70 yards, LOL
November 18th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Ghost to the Post Says
Brady and the other QB’s also had talent around them when they came in. That’s why you find out now if any one else on the O is good enough to make a difference in the league.
Then find the next great QB.
I personally think Frye is the best of the worst. I’d like to see him start instead of the circus freaks.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Wow. I’m shocked at all the hatred out there. We’re finally doing something positive on offense by benching JaMarcASS. Baldkowski’s not the future, but he’s the best of the present. Maybe we can win a few games and get out of the top ten in the draft, something we’re terrible at.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
raiderdav Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
why are half of you b*tching, Jawalrus is out. Lets see what Gradowski or Frye can do, the season is wasted already, its not like we are going to the playoffs, lets see what Gradowski brings, yes he may not be the answer but at this point what can they do…..Russell can go back to be a a lazy fat slob, or maybe we can use Russell in the OLine dont know lets call this offensive scheme the JAWALRUSS
=====================================================
I am acting like a hater right now…..I admit it. I love the Raiders. But I acknowledge that this team is fatally flawed.
I have no confidence in two reject QBs that would be at home right now if not for the Raiders.
Jason Campbell, Brian St. Pierre…even Tavaris Jackson…would be better options because at least they are on NFL rosters and in one case still a starter.
Those three may benefit from a change in scenery.
Gradkowski and Frye…you might as well wish upon a star
November 18th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
ColoradoRaiderFan Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Wow. I’m shocked at all the hatred out there. We’re finally doing something positive on offense by benching JaMarcASS. Baldkowski’s not the future, but he’s the best of the present. Maybe we can win a few games and get out of the top ten in the draft, something we’re terrible at
======================================================
Any wins will not be because of the QB. Just like the 1st two wins were not due to the QB.
The team is one of the worst in the NFL RIGHT NOW!
I refuse to put any hope, trust or investment in guys I’ve seen before. Donald Hollas, Aaron Brooks, KFC, Tui, and on and on and on.
No way!
November 18th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
TrueRaider, do you go to games? If so, why? If you have thousands of dollars to blow every year, I’ll take it. Al Davis is trying to lose. And people are giving money to him. Can anyone explain that?
======================================================
No bro, the only game I went to was opening night and that was it, I hate Al Davis as much as you do, I don’t think we will win if he stays there. Yet, all I was stating was my thought that JR is a bust and it will be proven once Grad puts up decent numbers comparing to JR. I am only saying that if Grad wins a game it proves JR is a bust and we should have benched him long time back.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
# SnB offense defense specialteams Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
I am acting like a hater right now…..I admit it. I love the Raiders. But I acknowledge that this team is fatally flawed.
I have no confidence in two reject QBs that would be at home right now if not for the Raiders.
Jason Campbell, Brian St. Pierre…even Tavaris Jackson…would be better options because at least they are on NFL rosters and in one case still a starter.
Those three may benefit from a change in scenery.
Gradkowski and Frye…you might as well wish upon a star
=====================================================
granted im talking about right now, lets see what gradowski does, but anything better then jawalrus, so we have to deal what we have.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Actually, I think the only way we can win is because of the QB. With JaMarcASS we’ll lose to Cleveland and Washington. If he’s on the bench eatin’ McDoubles, at least we have a chance.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
SnB offense defense specialteams
No question that Frye and Grad are only fill-ins. I doubt they will be on the team next year. Lamonica was a trade, sure, but you had to trade for talent back then.
Gannon was a minor free agent pick-up. I’m sure there’s a decent free agent QB who can be had for a cup of coffee. It all depends on getting the right fit for the team.
Gannon probably had the weakest arm in the NFL, hardly a “Raider” QB. But it was a great fit a the time.
I’m sure it can happen again.
But I know JR is not the answer right now. Maybe in a couple of years…
November 18th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
And it might open Jamarcus eyes to be benched for a guy half his size with a (third) of his skills (in his mind). Maybe it motivates him. If not we have we got to loose.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
JT Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
SnB offense defense
I dont know why you are so down on Gradkowski…
Gradkowski is a upgrade over Rusell… He is more of a NFL QB than Rusell…
Rusell is a question mark any time he throws the ball… I have never seen any consistancy on his part… OK, his receivers drop the ball, but other times his passes are wayyyy off…. its embarrasing…
A QB should make simple throws… that has always been my argument against Rusell, acuracy….
=======================================================
JT,
I am an upgrade of a 5th grader. So what? We are talking about a baseline of zero. 0 multiplied by “Infinity – 1″ still equals 0
Gradkowski and Frye are zeros.
Russell is a zero.
It all equals zero
November 18th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
*what have we got to loose.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
It would actually equal minus 1
November 18th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I know it won’t happen, but let’s say JaMustard, Baldkowski and Fried are released by the Raiders in the offseason. Who do you think has a chance of being signed by another team? Not JaFatAss.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Ghost to the Post Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
It would actually equal minus 1
Ask Frye, I think he knows…
November 18th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
ColoradoRaiderFan Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I know it won’t happen, but let’s say JaMustard, Baldkowski
Baldkowski LOL
I hope that name sticks
November 18th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
jamarcus would get signed
November 18th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
This move accomplishes nothing. Cable is just fukin schit up even more now…
November 18th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
I’m hoping with Brad in there the WR’s can run more than two patterns. Maybe even a crossing pattern. All I want for Xmas is a 20 yard completion to a WR across the middle.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
SnB offense defense specialteams Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Mistabrown Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
“Black Moses” gets benched!
Like priesttj said…by mid-season the NFL will know what we have at Qb.
We have a bust!
=================================================
Yup. We do have a bust on our hands.
We have no QB…no RG, RT, C, WR, MLB, DT, SLB, Coach, Assistant Coach, GM and Owner
Its all one big blazing joke
^^^^^^^
Lets all say a big thanks to the orchestrator of this mess and joke an organization and football team…..
THANKS AL DAVIS!
November 18th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Long-term, the Raiders should look at Colt Brennan (Redskins) and Mike Teel (Seahawks) to trade for QB.
Brennan is a highly accurate (very highly accurate) QB who is also aggressive downfield, has moxy, runs around etc.
Teel is more of a Brady type, long lean, in the pocket type. Also very accurate.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
I think Brennan would be a great choice. He could be available since the the Redskins organizations is worse than the Raiders.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
ColoradoRaiderFan Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I know it won’t happen, but let’s say JaMustard, Baldkowski and Fried are released by the Raiders in the offseason. Who do you think has a chance of being signed by another team? Not JaFatAss.
=======================================================
Gradkowski and Frye will be out of the league.
JaMarcus will be given a flier by somebody because they will discount his time in Dysfunction Junction and will think that Russell will have learned from his experience and will have him at a cheaper rate.
A team like the Patriots might bring Russell and think that an infusion of “the Patriots way” could yield a benefit down the road.
Almost like a reverse Plunkett……
That’s what will happen
November 18th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
You can bbq anywhere! Why give hundreds of dollars to an NFL owner who’s trying to lose while you bbq? If people are worried about losing their friends, they can get in touch elsewhere. And like I said, what kind of friend lets you spend your hard earned money on an NFL owner trying to lose?
November 18th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Dakota,
This move will allow the Raiders to see if the reason the offense’s historic-level lousiness is mostly about the QB play or not.
If Gradkowski comes in and the offense starts scoring 20+ per game the rest of the way we know that JaMarcus was the biggest problem. If Gradkowski manages to do no better it tells you that either Gradkowski sucks too or that it’s the other pieces (particularly WRs) who are holding the team back.
Either way, just watching how the offense performs with a new starting QB in there will enable them to make better evaluations of the current roster for next season (i.e. should we draft a QB in the 1st round again).
November 18th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
The Patriots run a complex offense. I’m sure they know that JaDumbass would be able to get past the table of contents of the playbook. It would take a stupid team to sign a stupid QB. That leaves us, the Redskins, and any team that Eric Mangini coaches.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Chris in NY
Bang on.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
If the Raiders were to draft a QB next year, who do you think they should draft?
November 18th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
everybody already knows grad sucks otherwise he would be on another team right now if he goes in and sucks he’ll just be playing up to his level
November 18th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Jake Locker from Washington is the guy the Raiders should get for next season. It’s not unprecedented to draft two QBs high in the draft within a few years of each other. The Chargers did it with Brees and Rivers after Brees struggled through his 3rd season (which was definitely bad but not as horiffic as JaMarcus’ 3rd season).
November 18th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
GG Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Long-term, the Raiders should look at Colt Brennan (Redskins) and Mike Teel (Seahawks) to trade for QB.
Brennan is a highly accurate (very highly accurate) QB who is also aggressive downfield, has moxy, runs around etc.
Teel is more of a Brady type, long lean, in the pocket type. Also very accurate.
======================================================
The Raiders need to go get a veteran with experience that is currently a backup. Someone with some freekn value.
Then play the guy and try and get to 8-8.
Then draft a QB mid to late round….no point in drafting high because the Raiders are HORRIBLE at developing talent….and try and see if he can catch fire behind the vet.
This is where we are. You have to develop your own Tom Brady or Peyton Manning. And you need those types of QBs to win consistently.
It is impossible any other way.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
People said the same thing about Gannon. That he sucked before he started playing. I’m not calling Gradikowski is the next Gannon. But, right time, right opportunity. It’s worth looking at. Also, we have already proven that Oakland is not able to develop a QB so why draft another one in the first round.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
Chris in NY Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Dakota,
This move will allow the Raiders to see if the reason the offense’s historic-level lousiness is mostly about the QB play or not.
If Gradkowski comes in and the offense starts scoring 20+ per game the rest of the way we know that JaMarcus was the biggest problem.
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So you think that this team is so talented…that Gradkowski can win with it at 20pts a clip?
Is that realism talking to you? Or blind hope?
November 18th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
When your offense has 9 three and outs in a row it hurts your defense. If Brad can get the Raiders 20 points and give the defense a rest, we can at least compete.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
“He gave them a spark”
-Chiefs Safety Mike Brown
that quote alone says it all
November 18th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I don’t buy this “the Raiders can’t develop a good QB” stuff. It all depends on the QB and his coaches.
Paul Hackett has developed plenty of good QBs. If we hire Jim Fassel as our next HC he too has developed a bunch of very good QBs.
But much of it has to do with the QB you draft. The guy has to be accurate, have poise and be able to make the right decision in a split-second over and over and over again. Get a guy like that to work under a Hackett and/or Fassel and I have zero doubt the Raiders will be able to develop a star QB.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
when gradkowski got in he went 3 and out then threw an int now he is our new starting qb
November 18th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Our draft pick will be high enough, what about drafting Tebow?
November 18th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
# Chris in NY Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Jake Locker from Washington is the guy the Raiders should get for next season. It’s not unprecedented to draft two QBs high in the draft within a few years of each other. The Chargers did it with Brees and Rivers after Brees struggled through his 3rd season (which was definitely bad but not as horiffic as JaMarcus’ 3rd season).
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I am sorry to say you to have no clue and I think you are driven by the Media, Jake Locker is another JR, inaccurate and with strong arm, very similar to JR, we dont need another top 10 or matter fact high draft pick, take a flier in the 4th or 5th round but no way Jake is a junior with no experience and not many games under his belt. Most of these QBs coming out next year are clear bust if you watch college football you will understand why they are so good now but would not be good in the NFL.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
SnB offense defense specialteams Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
Chris in NY Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Dakota,
This move will allow the Raiders to see if the reason the offense’s historic-level lousiness is mostly about the QB play or not.
If Gradkowski comes in and the offense starts scoring 20+ per game the rest of the way we know that JaMarcus was the biggest problem.
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So you think that this team is so talented…that Gradkowski can win with it at 20pts a clip?
Is that realism talking to you? Or blind hope?
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I wasn’t even talking about winning. I was talking about putting an offense on the field that isn’t a complete embarassment and is capable of scoring more than 1 TD per game like about 95% of the league.
I think our defense could be one of the better ones in the league if they weren’t constantly on the field defending after a ton of 3-and-outs and turnovers.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Ghost to the Post Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
People said the same thing about Gannon. That he sucked before he started playing. I’m not calling Gradikowski is the next Gannon. But, right time, right opportunity. It’s worth looking at. Also, we have already proven that Oakland is not able to develop a QB so why draft another one in the first round.
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Obviously the problem is the GM and Owner. So given that constant, let me comment anyway.
Gannon was a free agent after starting 12 gms with K.C and going 5-5. Not cut as the 3rd string QB in Seattle or Cleveland. So any talk about Gradkowski or Frye morphing into a journeyman super star is simply wishing upon a star.
So what should the Raiders do? Find a Matt Schaub lite or a Brett Favre capable talent that is buried on the depth chart on a team right now. A guy like Tyler Thigpen, Brian St. Pierre Drew STanton or Tavaris Jackson. Or, I would pursue a mid stage starter like Campbell or Marc Bulger. Maybe bring in 3 guys like that and let them all compete. I would then draft a QB in the 5th or 6th round
That’s what I would do.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
Good to see others out there who see what I see in Brennan.
Dont think the Seahawks will give up Teel seeing as he’ll be groomed to take over Hasselbeck. But he’s a good’un.
A vet back-up ALSO traded for…isnt a bad idea either. But name some names of who you guys are thinking of!
November 18th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Chris in NY Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Dakota,
This move will allow the Raiders to see if the reason the offense’s historic-level lousiness is mostly about the QB play or not.
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No it will not. Maybe if we had a decent backup QB that might be true. Garbagekowski is a joke…at least Russell is a joke with some potential.
This will do nothing but harm Russell’s confidence for the next head coach.
This is Cable doing even more damage before he moves on.
This is bad.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Imo, Tebow would be an excellent QB to draft (someone to develop). He’s highly underrated pocket passer. Forget all the option running, take that away and he’s still a very good QB. Does all the things right. Plus his character and leadership are second to none.
Someone like that as the face of the franchise would do wonders compared to JR as face of the franchise.
Tebow, Brennan, Teel, + some vet back-up, bring them all in and grill them.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
TrueRaider,
I’ve seen Locker play a bunch of times. He jumps off the screen. He doesn’t have 1/4 the talent around him that Bradford, McCoy and Clausen have to work with (I wouldn’t even consider drafting Tebow before the 3rd round).
He reminds me of a cross between Roethlisberger and Steve Young. He’s at least as athletic as Young but closer in size to Roethlisberger. He isn’t afraid to throw the ball into tight coverage (unlike JaMarcus) and makes a lot of plays like Big Ben.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Let’s be honest, Baldkowski is our best chance right now. If he starts a game next year we’re screwed. I agree with SnB. Cut them all, start over with a draft pick and a vet. Of course, we just did that three years ago.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
You guys are throwing around names of good players and coaches, while the owner of your favorite team is trying to lose. Owners trying to lose do not sign the best, they sign the worst. See: 2009 Oakland Raiders, players, coaching staff.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
Tebow? Brennan? T. Jackson?
You guy have to be joking! There was a reason Russell was drafted #1 and highly thought of after his pro day workout. There is a reason Russell showed flashed of good QB play last year.
The problem is that he has been handed a HC/OC that IS FUKIN CLUELESS and WRs that can’t catch!
Give Russell a coach he respects and FEARS and he might become something. All those other guys are never going to be NFL QBs…Russell + a decent HC is still our best hope IMO.
I think the guy stinks right now, but much of that blame goes to circumstances.
We have a HC that couldn’t get a fukin HC job with a low level college team destroying our young players right now.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
I like Tebow because he’s smart, and wins games. Don’t think he’s worthy of a first round pick. Same thing with Bradford.
As far as a vet, Pennington and his weakass arm will be available next year. He may have a weanie arm, but he’s a smart QB who was getting the job done before he got hurt again.
November 18th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Tebow’s not coming to Oakland.
Al Davis is nothing if not predictable.
He has a total say over the first couple of picks.( I think he has a nap for the remaining rounds)
Tebow lacks arm strength. If Davis would draft a QB high, he’s gotta look have the arm strength.
If Tebow’s still on the board in the late second or third, then maybe.
He might remind Al of a young Kenny Stabler. He likes the lefty throwers. Like the good ol’ days. With Pete Banazcak rumbling for three yards and a cloud of dust…Art Powell running the post…mmmmm…time for a nap.
November 18th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Chris in NY Says:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I don’t buy this “the Raiders can’t develop a good QB” stuff. It all depends on the QB and his coaches.
Paul Hackett has developed plenty of good QBs. If we hire Jim Fassel as our next HC he too has developed a bunch of very good QBs.
But much of it has to do with the QB you draft. The guy has to be accurate, have poise and be able to make the right decision in a split-second over and over and over again. Get a guy like that to work under a Hackett and/or Fassel and I have zero doubt the Raiders will be able to develop a star QB.
^^^^^^^^
Agreed….I wouldn’t have any problem if Fassell was hired….he at least knows how to run a modern offense and play call.
Kevin Kolb is the next Matt Schaub IMO.
November 18th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Looks like we only have the choice between a bad and a worse option… If I think of it for a minute, the whole situation is probably uncoachable every which way you look at it. The best solution would be a nuclear bomb… eradicate the whole place and rebuild from scratch. Change is possible. Look at what they did in Miami… This should serve as the case study for Al. And if he was honest with himself, he’d do the right thing and retire for a start…
This season is over… we won’t learn who our QB of the future will be, but maybe we can still learn who we have at RB and WR, etc. Benching JMR is a first step, imo.
Besides, I find it interesting that 95% of the discussion is focussing on the offense. But compared to the offense, the D looks like Superbowl caliber! Hey, we found that young guy Shaughnessy (sp?) on D, that’s one ray of light!
November 18th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Tebow also lacks accuracy and the ability to throw a spiral.
I think he winds up as a TE who runs the Wildcat in the NFL and MAYBE develops into a QB after 3 or 4 years in the league.
Dakota, I’m not totally giving up on JaMarcus yet either but you can’t go into 2010 with him as your pre-ordained starter. It’s time to get either a proven vet or super-talented rookie and make it a wide-open competition. Maybe JaMarcus finally gets it and wins the job even over a Locker or other top-10 pick. But there has to be another option in case he continues to suck.
November 18th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Well this is what alot of us wished for well now we got it! JR is benched! Weather he does any better well just have to wait and see however they needed to do something we have to look at it like this he’s never got to practice with the 1st team so we can’t fault him now he gets all the snaps. I think I was shocked at the press meeting when he said Grad would be the starter for good and not the same BS we all here. It’s going to be interesting to see at this point it sure can’t hurt anything at this point.
November 18th, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Tim Tebow I think this guy is the biggest ball hog in the NCAA he has more rushing yrds then any of his backs more TD’s then anyone on the team as for my opinion on him in the nfl no way at QB maybe as a back or a TE without him the gators would not be where there at. To sum it up major ball hog