Gradkowski keeps grinding
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Wednesday, March 10th, 2010 at 8:18 am in Oakland Raiders.
A few observations from Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski, a guest on KNBR’s (680-AM) “Razor and Mr. T” show:
Tom Cable’s status: “We’re going to work every day like it’s the same. Coach Cable is in there working, and that’s all I care about. I don’t look into details. I just go in there, take care of my own business, and whoever is there I’m going to work with and we’re going to be just fine.”
If he’s the antithesis of JaMarcus Russell in terms of work ethic and is that what won his teammates over: “I think ti was the way I’ve been raised. I’ve known no different than being a blue-collar guy, to work hard, and you’re going get what you deserve and I believe that . . . I’m not worried about how other people do their jobs. I’m just worried about being a professional, taking care of my own business, and when the opportunity comes, taking advantage of it.”
His status with the Raiders as an RFA: I haven’t officially signed with them yet. They offered a second-round tender and so it’s still free agency going on, so there’s other teams out there, but in my heart, I want to be in Oakland. I believe I’ll be in Oakland and I’d like to be here for years to come. I just feel a good presence here.”
Whether he’s been assured of open competition at QB: “I think that’s the way it should take place, and I think that’s the way it will take place, and I’m looking forward to it. I’m just excited to get this opportunity.”
What players were saying during the Randy Hanson controversy: “I think the players just have to worry about our job, just coming to work every day and letting that stuff be handled by the people that handle that situation . . . yeah, it’s been unusual, but I think Mr. Davis realy just wants to win, wants the best for his players and he’s trying to get it done. I think right now we have a very good setup in the coaches and players around us and a good team. I hope the fans back us from Day 1, because we can use that, and w need them a part of this year and to be a part of this thing when we turn it around.”
If he needed a volume button on his helmet radio when the excitable Jon Gruden was coach: “I needed a mute button, honestly.”
The Raiders, not surprisingly, had nothing to do with arranging the interview. As a general rule, they treat offseason publicity as if its radioactive waste and are particularly sensitive to host Ralph Barbieri’s criticisms of Al Davis.
It only happened because co-host Tom Tolbert ran into a friend of Gradkowski’s who was pushing publicity for a Pop Warner football team in Walnut Creek. Gradkowski wanted to further the cause and go on the air.
Interesting to note that although that when Barbieri went into one of his patented run-on questions which included harsh (and legitimate) criticisms of Russell, Gradkowski made no effort to defend Russell or say if he’s been working alongside him in the building.
A link to the entire 20-minute interview can be found here.
The world, of course, didn’t end.
Gradkowski was optimistic and sincere, and the Raiders actually got themselves some coverage on the 49ers flagship station _ through no effort of their own.
Other items of note:
– ESPN is reporting tight end Anthony Becht, the blocking tight end who visited both the Raiders and 49ers, opted to re-sign with the Arizona Cardinals. It was a one-year deal worth $950,000, so the interest of the Bay Area teams must have been lukewarm at best.
– Gradkowski has been a frequent visitor to the Raiders facility and will continue to do so as he battles for the job as starting quarterback. With restricted free agents such as Elvis Dumervill and Tony Scheffler of Denver declining to attend offseason programs, it will be interesting to see how linebackers Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard treat the offseason.
They’re not required to attend, and the SportsBusiness Journal reported awhile back some agents would advise their clients to stay away as their only form of protest against the changes to free agency in the uncapped year.
– Bad news for the Raiders and “former” Raider Justin Fargas.
With the Chiefs signing Jets’ free agent Thomas Jones, Fargas will remain on the job market.
The last two times Jones faced the Raiders as a member of the Jets, he carried 50 times for 280 yards. Now he gets the Raiders twice in a season.
– Former Raiders defensive tackle Chester McGlockton is a coaching intern at Stanford. McGlockton has coached the defensive line at Chabot College in Hayward and did a spring internship last year on Lane Kiffin’s staff at Tennessee.
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March 10th, 2010 at 8:20 am
Lonely at the top.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:20 am
I love this guy….
Damn quick on the draw Bob
March 10th, 2010 at 8:22 am
Anthony Becht re-signed with the Cards…how will our team ever recover?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:22 am
jhill Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 8:22 am
You still stand by your friend the tattoo artist’s stories? Who just met him last May?
The last update we got from your source was that there was no way Russell would should up to camp in shape. Right after that, we get confirmation that he actually is in Az working out with some trainer. Not only that, the Raiders have an employee rolling with him full time.
Any new updates?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:24 am
Russell Im told calls his agent and asks him when are the dates he required to be there,..then he reluctantly goes there,..and always late. Truth.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:26 am
Vegas,
I don’t understand the hesitation with the jersey man.
Pull the trigger!
March 10th, 2010 at 8:28 am
Go ahead Vegas,…the little Polock Im hearing will get a 3 year deal soon.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:29 am
Al, Rex Hadnot is still out there…how is he not better than Cooper or Satele?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:32 am
Hadnot once hadsome but last season he hadnone.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:33 am
Russell’s a slob, and Grads knows it. He’s just too nice (and/or professional) to say anything.
Anyway, anyone else hoping that after we get Okung/Davis/Bulaga/Williams at #8, that either Campbell or Iupati slips into Round 2? Iupati, in particular, would replace Cooper nicely.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Bruce is the MAN!
About time we had a freakin’ stand up guy playing QB….
March 10th, 2010 at 8:40 am
You People are really enjoying the GarbageKowski Hype!
March 10th, 2010 at 8:42 am
Who do you want at QB O?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:43 am
As far as hype goes for Gradkowski,..Iv never seen any.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:43 am
Jhill,
He is coming out here for March Madness weekend. Why I don’t know because I doubt he has ever watched an entire college hoops game, so I can get more “scoops” (lol) than.
Dude is much closer to Jamarcus’ younger brother. When they are in town, they bring the traveling tattoo shop to the house.
And can we drop the AZ thing yet? How long was he there, a week or two? He was spotted in Miami for the bowl at all hours of the night, so he wasn’t in AZ long at all.
I place the over/under on how many more times Bruce has been to Alameda over Russell since the season ended at 75.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:44 am
JaBustus.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:44 am
When has espn said gradkowski was going to be great,..whens the nfl network said gradkowski is the next big thing?…Iv not read any hype O,…bloggers opinions isnt hype.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:46 am
Ricky Bobby,
What do you think “Hype” means?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:47 am
Bruuuuuuce!
March 10th, 2010 at 8:48 am
I never consider what bloggers in here say about gradkowski as hype,..you can.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:48 am
For anyone interested in hearing the Gradkowski interview with Razor & Mr. T:
Go to the link below and you’ll see the various recent interviews. (you’ll need to download the sound plug in they use)
Link:
http://www.knbr.com/OnKNBR680/RazorandMrT/tabid/595/Default.aspx
And say what you want about Gradkowski, but, he sounds like a super cool dude. Just a good, hard-working guy.
Can’t help but to root for a guy like that.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:48 am
Russell has enormous hype when we drafted hm though,..big time hype.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:49 am
If he needed a volume button on his helmet radio when the excitable Jon Gruden was coach: “I needed a mute button, honestly.”
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Between this comment, and actually getting a TD pass to DHB, Bruce might just be working his way into one of Al’s favorite players, noodle-arm and all.
Once he starts talking about the greatness of the Raiders and the mystique in the hallways, that will seal the deal.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:49 am
Gradkowski pretty much single handedly beat the mighty steelers, thats for sure.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:51 am
My bad –
I didn’t realize Jerry had already provided a link to the interview.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:52 am
We play in Pitt this year, and you know the number of teammates coming over for homemade Gradkowski Peroigi’s will increase.
BTW, anyone think, even if not found guilty, that Big Ben will face any displinary actions? The “personal conduct” policy has pretty loose language for this type of stuff, and no conviction is needed.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:53 am
Ricky Bobby,
I can’t!
March 10th, 2010 at 8:53 am
I’d still like us to sign Troy Smith though to give us a 2nd viable option at the QB position.
1) Bruce
1a) Troy Smith
3) John Skelton
March 10th, 2010 at 8:54 am
Bruce is alright QB way better then Jabuster but if we are going to have an open comp. for QB lets bring in Anderson he has the big arm.. And big AL like big arms.send frye on his way and have a 3 way comp for QB
March 10th, 2010 at 8:55 am
What else did he do Ricky Bobby?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:55 am
Chris:
I’d love to see Troy Smith as a Raider.
For me, it would be Bruce, Smith & Russell with the job going to the guy who’s most clearly earned it by the season opener.
That’s an expensive trio of QB’s though.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:57 am
What to do about our running back situation?
If either Bush or McFadden really steps it up (big “if”), then I really don’t think we need a 3rd tailback in the rotation.
But, if these cats still don’t quite “get it”, then I think we need to bring in another guy to get the job done.
March 10th, 2010 at 8:58 am
No More guys like Anderson, Frye, Carr, etc…. We need to develop what we have, or trade for a QB like #5. Hey Now!
Word!
March 10th, 2010 at 8:58 am
The Raiders need to go out and sign Derek Anderson. He is a former Pro Bowl QB with a good arm. Obviously no QB could succeed within that Cleveland offense..but Anderson did succeed one year.
I think he would bring some much needed competition at the quarterback position
March 10th, 2010 at 8:59 am
What about the D-tackle the Chargers just released? I forget his name (Jamal Williams?). . . .
He’s up there in age but still younger than Grady Jackson and he’s better than either Kelly or Warren.
Thoughts?
March 10th, 2010 at 8:59 am
I think we give Mcfad and bush there chance and maybe pick up a RB in the draft but in RD 3 or 4
March 10th, 2010 at 8:59 am
single handely beat the bengals too.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:00 am
silver,..try and keep up man. Geez.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:00 am
Jamal signed with denver I think
March 10th, 2010 at 9:01 am
Williams signed with the donkeys.
I would rather get a guy like Anderson in FA, than give up a draft pick for a guy like Troy Smith.
Smith has thrown all of 80 NFL passes so far. Anderson has thrown over 500. You can’t offset that type of experience.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:02 am
# Norco Bob Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 8:59 am
single handely beat the bengals too.
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Let’s give Louis Murphy some credit for single-handedly forcing his will and pulling himself and the defender into the end zone.
And let’s give Brandon Myers some credit for making the game-winning fumble/strip at the end.
But point well taken – Bruce showed some major stones for us.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:02 am
If Javhid Best and his 4.4 forty are there in the second round, it will be tough for Al to pass on that.
It’s like dangling cake in front of a fat person.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:02 am
# Norco Bob Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:00 am
silver,..try and keep up man. Geez.
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What do you mean? Keep up with who/what?
March 10th, 2010 at 9:02 am
We can draft a RB in day 3, or sign one after the draft. IMO
March 10th, 2010 at 9:03 am
Silver,
Whether he starts or not, Bruce is making backup QB money. I presume Troy Smith would be in the same ballpark in terms of a contract. But if Russell doesn’t do a 180 here before next season it’d be insane to pay that guy another $9.5 million. We could have Bruce, Troy Smith and either Frye or a late-round pick like Skelton combined for a little more than 1/2 of $9.5 million.
JaMarcus’ salary and the draft picks spent on him = SUNK COSTS.
** SUNK COST: In economics and business decision-making, sunk costs are retrospective (past) costs that have already been incurred and cannot be recovered. Sunk costs are sometimes contrasted with prospective costs, which are future costs that may be incurred or changed if an action is taken. Both retrospective and prospective costs may be either fixed (that is, they are not dependent on the volume of economic activity, however measured) or variable (dependent on volume).
In traditional microeconomic theory, only prospective (future) costs are relevant to an investment decision. Traditional economics proposes that an economic actor not let sunk costs influence one’s decisions, because doing so would not be rationally assessing a decision exclusively on its own merits. The decision-maker may make rational decisions according to their own incentives; these incentives may dictate different decisions than would be dictated by efficiency or profitability, and this is considered an incentive problem and distinct from a sunk cost problem.
Evidence from Behavioral economics suggests this theory fails to predict real-world behavior. Sunk costs greatly affect actors’ decisions, because humans are inherently loss-averse and thus normally act irrationally when making economic decisions.
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunk_cost
March 10th, 2010 at 9:03 am
Gangstakowski stays on his grind.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:04 am
Norco:
Cut me some slack man – I don’t have BSPN running full time.
Actually got work to do!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
#5 = D McNabb.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Derek Anderson was the only QB in the NFL who played significant time last year who was arguably more inept than JaMarcus Russell. WTF are you guys talking about?
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Garbagekowski hype? Well considering that fat azz QB JaBustus, I am OVERJOYED to have Gradkowski……
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
You got a job?…bummer,…man I havent worked for years.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
JaMarcus Russell is the biggest 1st Pick of ALL TIME. And Yvonne Walker is the biggest FA signing of ALL TIME.
Very embarrassing……
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
Chris in NY Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Derek Anderson was the only QB in the NFL who played significant time last year who was arguably more inept than JaMarcus Russell. WTF are you guys talking about?
With honorable mention for Delhomme.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
Bruce was also on murph n mac this morning.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
Chris:
Thanks for the lesson in economics LOL.
The point is, none of us are in tune with what Russell is or is not going to do this offseason.
My point is this:
If he DOES pull a 180 and works his ass off and truly commits to his team and profession, then I want to give him the opportunity to compete in camp.
But if he comes to camp out of shape again, then it’s pretty simple:
Cut your ties on move on.
But I think it’s way too premature to cut a young guy after less than 30 games started in the NFL. That’s not even 2 full seasons of football man.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:08 am
BIGGEST BUST IS WHAT I FORGOT TO ADD. Biggest in the belly area too for JaBustus.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:08 am
Trade DMAC for sunk costs!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:08 am
Redskins sign Maake Kemoeatu
So much for that.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:09 am
He wouldnt be on those shows if he werent told he has a deal coming…probably 3 year deal,…Delhomme might end up here too,…my row 1 powers may be off,…looks like Russell may be on way out,..and completely out, of NFL.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:09 am
Chris,
What about his Pro Bowl year of 2007?
I am no Derek Anderson fan, but if we are signing on a guy to be a backup or 3rd stringer, someone with a SLIGHT chance of starting, I would rather not give up draft pick for them.
You only give up a draft pick for a Troy Smith type, even if it is only a 5th rounder, if you really think he can start. Otherwise, you just draft a potential backup in the 5th round.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:10 am
Morning Nation
March 10th, 2010 at 9:10 am
# Einste1n Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
JaMarcus Russell is the biggest 1st Pick of ALL TIME. And Yvonne Walker is the biggest FA signing of ALL TIME.
Very embarrassing……
*******************************************
That’s BS.
JaMarcus, although he’s generally been terrible, has done WAY more good things than Ryan Leif, Akili Smith, Jim Drukenmiller, etc., etc.
Hell, Alex Smith to this day, has NEVER had a game-winning drive. At least Russell has done this a few times.
I love how people’s memory capabilities are maxed out at about 2 months.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:10 am
Silver-n-Smac Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:07 am
If he DOES pull a 180 and works his ass off and truly commits to his team and profession, then I want to give him the opportunity to compete in camp.
——————————————-
Based on what we have seen to this point, do you HONESTLY think he will pull “a 180″ as you mentioned? Be real man, it won’t happen. He doesn’t have it in him. How do you come into the nfl as a 1st pick and as a QB and have the rep and work ethic he does. No other QB has ever been like him.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:10 am
The biggest 1st round BUST is easily Andre Smith.
You seen the tits on that guy?
He must be rockin a EE.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:11 am
Trade Dmac for a batch of homemade Gradkowski periogi’s!!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:13 am
I love how people’s memory capabilities are maxed out at about 2 months.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How about 2 seconds! Pass the bowl…
And trade DMAC for Troy Smith! Print that. Hey now. Word. Print that. Hey now.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:15 am
I think the trade Dmac for a bagel or a paperclip talk will die down once the 2010 season gets rolling.
Hue Jackson will find a way to use him effectively and star in the upcoming summer blockbuster Wolverine 2.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:15 am
Silver-n-Smac its cool with us that you have a JaMarcus Russell jersey, and you want that investment to prosper. But, your comical defense of him is just hilarious. You don’t make a single point based on facts, just obvious biased opinions based on your personal favor of him. Its cool, we all have our favorite Raiders..
Akili Smith and Jim Drunkenmiller weren’t 1st OVERALL picks (as I was referring to in my post about JaMarcus being the biggest 1ST OVERALL PICK)
Get your facts straight bro, and dont let your love for JaBustus cloud your common sense.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:16 am
Leaf, Akili Smith and Druckenmiller weren’t first picks of the draft. That’s the leg up Jamarcus has on them in the bust barometer.
And each one of those guys had at least one QB taken ahead of them.
I think STeve Emtman and Courtney Brown have to be included in all-time #1 pick busts, although there demise were injuries, not cough syrup and donuts.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:16 am
lol
March 10th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Vegas,
A 5th round pick is not much of a price to pay for a guy who is at worst a veteran but still young backup QB. I know, Schilens was a 7th rounder. Tom Brady was a 6th rounder. Good players can be found late in the draft. But Eric Frampton, Stryker Sulak and a bunch of other guys who haven’t even made the cut out of training camp are the kind of guys you usually get in that neighborhood of the draft. Troy Smith for a 5th rounder is a steal, IMO.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:17 am
# Norco Bob Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:05 am
You got a job?…bummer,…man I havent worked for years.
*****************************
You’re the man.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:19 am
LA to TheBay Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:15 am
I think the trade Dmac for a bagel or a paperclip talk will die down once the 2010 season gets rolling.
Hue Jackson will find a way to use him effectively and star in the upcoming summer blockbuster Wolverine 2.
—————–
I agree. DMac is going to break out this year.
And Hue Jackson is ripped. Plus he’s a fine dancer. Remember he hosted the Oscars last year? That = poise under pressure.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:19 am
Smith may be good, but he still hasn’t shown schit in the NFL.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:21 am
Can we sign Hoover.
C’mon AL!!!!!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:22 am
Hue Jackson will find a way to use him effectively and star in the upcoming summer blockbuster Wolverine 2
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
This is a lunatic fallacy. A coach CANNOT solve fumbling and falling down by “using him better”.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:22 am
Hue may be decent, we shall see, BUT he won’t be able to do schit with DMAC, Bush, JaBustus, Grads, or anyone WITHOUT an OLINE, of which at this point we don’t have.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:23 am
I don’t know about the falling down part, but the fumbling can be corrected. (Tiki Barber)
March 10th, 2010 at 9:24 am
# Einste1n Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:15 am
Silver-n-Smac its cool with us that you have a JaMarcus Russell jersey, and you want that investment to prosper. But, your comical defense of him is just hilarious. You don’t make a single point based on facts, just obvious biased opinions based on your personal favor of him. Its cool, we all have our favorite Raiders..
Akili Smith and Jim Drunkenmiller weren’t 1st OVERALL picks (as I was referring to in my post about JaMarcus being the biggest 1ST OVERALL PICK)
Get your facts straight bro, and dont let your love for JaBustus cloud your common sense.
**********************************************
First off, I’m not into player jerseys. I don’t even get that whole concept. If you’re not on the field, don’t pretend to be.
As for Russell, any defense I have of him is not in MY interest. It’s in the interest of my team, the Raiders. I don’t want him to be a flop. I want him to succeed.
As I’ve said so many times, he’s been horrible.
He’s been lazy. He’s been too lax.
But I’ve also said that he’s young and immature, with a good heart.
He’s human.
Human beings have the capability to grow up. Or have you ALWAYS been the mature adult (laugh) that you are now?
Listen carefully. He’s been bashed and publicly humiliated like few athletes have ever been.
That may have hit home. That may not have.
All I’m saying is it’s do or die time for him now.
Let’s see how he responds.
You say he won’t. I say let’s wait and see.
You could be wrong. You could be right.
But don’t act like a freakin’ know-it-all and tell me how it’s gonna be.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:27 am
Silver-n-Smac:
No need to get defensive and personal. Like I said, we all have our personal favorite Raiders, and it’s obvious yours is JaMarcus. It’s cool, but you don’t need to get so defensive when someone points out his inadequacies. Jeez man. Some of my favorites were Marcus Allen and Tim Brown, and they were surrounded with Silver and Black controversy, but I didn’t care what anyone said about them, they were still my favorites.
Don’t worry bud, you can still be his fan, don’t take it personal what others say about him.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:27 am
I would just hang myself from the rafters in Napa from one of my $100,000 platinum necklaces if I was Jameatball. It would be the only time Oakland fans ever cheered for him!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:29 am
What about OL’s in the first two rounds, and Tebow in the 3rd?
March 10th, 2010 at 9:30 am
Dan Land is my favorite Raider ever. I will never forget the game against the Donkeys where he ran down the field on a punt and blatently ignored a fair catch signal and KILLED the stinkin’ donkey! YES the good old days where we were penalized for hurting the opponent, instead of penalized because we are too fat to hold a 3 point stance for a 2 count.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:30 am
Chris,
I agree that 5th round pick is not much. 5th rounders are probably 50/50 making the final roster.
I just don’t think you take a flyer on a guy for a 5th round pick, unless you really think there is potential there. If the Raiders and Hue think so, I have no problem with it. If not, keep the pick and hope you land another Brady, Schilens, Hassleback late round steal.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:32 am
# RaiderDuck Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:29 am
What about OL’s in the first two rounds, and Tebow in the 3rd?
————————————–
Yes, very much needed, I agree OL in the first two rounds, but Tebow? Really?
March 10th, 2010 at 9:33 am
Personally I think Tebow is a 5th or 6th rounders, maybe a 7th.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:34 am
I kind of like this possible scenario.
CHECK IT OUT!
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/360154-2010-mock-draft-oakland-raiders-edition-40#page/2
March 10th, 2010 at 9:34 am
Teblow wont get out of the 2nd round. He will be a 49er
March 10th, 2010 at 9:37 am
# DMAC Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:34 am
I kind of like this possible scenario.
CHECK IT OUT!
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/360154-2010-mock-draft-oakland-raiders-edition-40#page/2
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Hell yeah, I really like this scenario. At 15 we could still get a good OL and another one in round 2. This scenario enables us to address our two biggest deficiencies in both lines. Thanks for posting that link mang. I like it.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:39 am
Tebow would be worth a third-rounder. He needs some modification to his throwing motion, and needs a lot more looks at pro-style defenses. HOWEVER: He’s a hard enough worker to learn what he needs to do, and a good enough athlete to fit in at DB/TE/H-Back/something-or-other else if QB doesn’t work out. It would also be good kick in the ass for JaMarcus to see some rookie third-rounder pass him on the depth chart.
However, Tebow’s got major, major question marks. Second round is reaching for this guy, and any GM who would take him in the first round is an idiot.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:46 am
I love that mock, but it makes way to much sense to happen.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:50 am
# Einste1n Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:27 am
Silver-n-Smac:
No need to get defensive and personal. Like I said, we all have our personal favorite Raiders, and it’s obvious yours is JaMarcus. It’s cool, but you don’t need to get so defensive when someone points out his inadequacies. Jeez man. Some of my favorites were Marcus Allen and Tim Brown, and they were surrounded with Silver and Black controversy, but I didn’t care what anyone said about them, they were still my favorites.
Don’t worry bud, you can still be his fan, don’t take it personal what others say about him.
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Yeah dude. Whatever man. JaMarcus Russell is my favorite Raider.
My favorite Raider is a guy who’s been uninspiring, out of shape and uncommited.
Yup. . . .he’s my favorite Raider.
Hell, you’re right – I think he’s my favorite Raider of all time.
Hmmm. . . . .funny, I thought I pointed out all his inadequacies myself.
Doushbag.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Its Douchebag… just an FYI
March 10th, 2010 at 9:53 am
Trade DMAC for a douchebag!
March 10th, 2010 at 9:55 am
kemoeatu to skins…
March 10th, 2010 at 9:55 am
I would love to have Osi on the team.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Silver-n-Smac Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:50 am
Yeah dude. Whatever man. JaMarcus Russell is my favorite Raider.
My favorite Raider is a guy who’s been uninspiring, out of shape and uncommited.
Yup. . . .he’s my favorite Raider.
Hell, you’re right – I think he’s my favorite Raider of all time.
Hmmm. . . . .funny, I thought I pointed out all his inadequacies myself.
Doushbag.
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Wow, for the guy who uses the name “Silver-n-SMAC” you sure can’t take some “SMAC”, and your ability to talk “SMAC” is questionable at best. Relax sweetheart, I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:04 am
DMAC Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:55 am
I would love to have Osi on the team.
—
Me too.
But we’d have to trade for him. I dont wanna trade any picks unless its the 1st rounder…
March 10th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Hey Deuece,
Did you check out post 87?
March 10th, 2010 at 10:16 am
Dan Land is my favorite Raider ever. I will never forget the game against the Donkeys where he ran down the field on a punt and blatently ignored a fair catch signal and KILLED the stinkin’ donkey! YES the good old days where we were penalized for hurting the opponent, instead of penalized because we are too fat to hold a 3 point stance for a 2 count.
—————————————————
classic
March 10th, 2010 at 10:18 am
I’d still like us to sign Troy Smith though to give us a 2nd viable option at the QB position.
1) Bruce
1a) Troy Smith
3) John Skelton
————————————————–
How about an open competion between Russell and Red Skelton? — Wait Red Skelton is dead— lucky for Russell
March 10th, 2010 at 10:20 am
Good morning all. You have got to love The Bruce. He really is the better man. I just wish Jamarcus had half his drive and work ethic.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:21 am
1. Bradford-Rams: see Falcons and Lions
2. Okung-Lions: protect Stafford
3. Suh-Bucs: best player avail w/ lots of needs
4. Williams-Skins: protect QB
5. Bulaga-Chiefs: will reach for need
6. Mccoy-Hawks: best player avail, could upgrade @ DT
7. Berry-Browns: best player avail, could upgrade @ S
8. Pierre-Paul-Raiders: did 17 backflips @ combine
March 10th, 2010 at 10:28 am
According to Rotoworld.com RB Larry Johnson has a visit scheduled with the Raiders later this week.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Larry Johnson most have Al Davis salivating lol
March 10th, 2010 at 10:33 am
Einste1n Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:27 am
Silver-n-Smac:
No need to get defensive and personal. Like I said, we all have our personal favorite Raiders, and it’s obvious yours is JaMarcus. It’s cool, but you don’t need to get so defensive when someone points out his inadequacies. Jeez man. Some of my favorites were Marcus Allen and Tim Brown, and they were surrounded with Silver and Black controversy, but I didn’t care what anyone said about them, they were still my favorites.
Don’t worry bud, you can still be his fan, don’t take it personal what others say about him.
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Dude, I’ll step up now and say JR is my favorite player. The biggest reason I’m a Raider fan is the renegade, us-against-the-world aura the team has around it. And it’s clear to me after taking in everything from the media and what’s been posted on this site by guys like you the past several months that there isn’t a player in the league who exemplifies “me against the world” more than JR. To me, he’s the perfect Raider QB: The guy that everyone, including most Raider fans, love to hate. I love the fact that he’s dismissive of the media. They deserve it as far as I’m concerned. I like the anti-QB outfits and bling after games too. That’s his style and he’s not caving to anyone else’s idea of what a QB should look or sound like. He doesn’t waste time trying to answer his critics and after he’s pulled out victories for us, he doesn’t seek the glory. I can honestly say that I’ve never rooted more for another QB to kick ass. If for no other reason because just about everyone wants him to fail so badly.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:38 am
Gators QB Tim Tebow scored a 22 on his Wonderlic, Jimmy Clausen 23, Colt McCoy 25 and Sam Bradford 36 out of 50, per NFL source.
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Interesting.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:41 am
Tom Cable’s status: “We’re going to work every day like it’s the same. Coach Cable is in there working, and that’s all I care about. I don’t look into details. I just go in there, take care of my own business, and whoever is there I’m going to work with and we’re going to be just fine.”
=========
Translation: Party line, none of your business.
If he’s the antithesis of JaMarcus Russell in terms of work ethic and is that what won his teammates over: “I think ti was the way I’ve been raised. I’ve known no different than being a blue-collar guy, to work hard, and you’re going get what you deserve and I believe that . . . I’m not worried about how other people do their jobs. I’m just worried about being a professional, taking care of my own business, and when the opportunity comes, taking advantage of it.”
================
Translation: Party line. Russell? No comment.
His status with the Raiders as an RFA: I haven’t officially signed with them yet. They offered a second-round tender and so it’s still free agency going on, so there’s other teams out there, but in my heart, I want to be in Oakland. I believe I’ll be in Oakland and I’d like to be here for years to come. I just feel a good presence here.”
=================
Translation: No where else would have me. Honestlty, if we’re going to “start” a nobody like Grad why not just keep McClown.
====================
Whether he’s been assured of open competition at QB: “I think that’s the way it should take place, and I think that’s the way it will take place, and I’m looking forward to it. I’m just excited to get this opportunity.”
======================
Translation: again, no where else in the League could I even have a snowballs chance of starting except oakland. partly because I couldn’t make another squad and because Russell’s garbage effort.
==========
What players were saying during the Randy Hanson controversy: “I think the players just have to worry about our job, just coming to work every day and letting that stuff be handled by the people that handle that situation . . . yeah, it’s been unusual, but I think Mr. Davis realy just wants to win, wants the best for his players and he’s trying to get it done. I think right now we have a very good setup in the coaches and players around us and a good team. I hope the fans back us from Day 1, because we can use that, and w need them a part of this year and to be a part of this thing when we turn it around.”
====
Translation: I ain’t sayin sh-ite while I’ve got a shot at starting so party line, Davis is great, Coaches are lovely, kids stay in school say no to drugs, hugs and kisses and I’m out.
If he needed a volume button on his helmet radio when the excitable Jon Gruden was coach: “I needed a mute button, honestly.”
=================
Translation: Gruden’s a freak.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:43 am
RaiderDebo Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:33 am
JR. To me, he’s the perfect Raider QB:
just about everyone wants him to fail so badly.
—————————————————–
Raider QB needs to win the Super Bowl– and pull out last second wins consistantly
Nobody here wants a Raiders QB to fail
March 10th, 2010 at 10:43 am
HairyBush Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Larry Johnson most have Al Davis salivating lol
===========================
Just put a Raiders don’t have to pay him clause if he smacks anymore women around and DO NOT let him and Cable go to any strip clubs together.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:44 am
# Einste1n Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Wow, for the guy who uses the name “Silver-n-SMAC” you sure can’t take some “SMAC”, and your ability to talk “SMAC” is questionable at best. Relax sweetheart, I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.
***************************************************
I have no interest in talkin’ smack with you as all I remember of your tag is that you’re a racist pile of garbage.
Smack with legit “smackers” is all good.
Smack from someone as dense as an oak tree is boring.
Hey, did I tell you I love JaMarcus?
March 10th, 2010 at 10:44 am
Stabler76 Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:43 am
RaiderDebo Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:33 am
JR. To me, he’s the perfect Raider QB:
just about everyone wants him to fail so badly.
—————————————————–
Raider QB needs to win the Super Bowl– and pull out last second wins consistantly
Nobody here wants a Raiders QB to fail
========================
You’re not reading all of the posts.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:45 am
Ghost to the Post Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:20 am
Good morning all. You have got to love The Bruce. He really is the better man. I just wish Jamarcus had half his drive and work ethic.
=======================
The Bruce has half his talent.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:46 am
Nice translations Nnamdi.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Whatever. I’m sure they would have said the same about Joe Montana and Tom Brady too.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Stabler76 Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:43 am
RaiderDebo Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:33 am
JR. To me, he’s the perfect Raider QB:
just about everyone wants him to fail so badly.
—————————————————–
Raider QB needs to win the Super Bowl– and pull out last second wins consistantly
Nobody here wants a Raiders QB to fail
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That’s why I say “just about everyone” Stabler. There’s no question in my mind that there are guys on here who want him to fail. Not sayin you’re one of them. By the way, JR does have a knack for pulling out last-second victories, doesn’t he? Give him time on the rest.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:48 am
Man, why the hell does everyone have “favorites” when it comes to our starting QB???
If we had been a good team the past few years, it’s a worthy topic.
But we’ve sucked for too long.
And every single Raider fan should care only about one thing at this point – and that is WINNING.
If it’s Grad, Russell, or MaddenRaider’s blow-up doll that starts winning games for us, that should make every one of us happy.
No?
March 10th, 2010 at 10:50 am
Anyone worried about Fargas visiting the Chiefs?
Tomlinson to the Vikes is that dudes best chance to see a SB. SD is NEVER going to make it. That teams decline is right on time.
March 10th, 2010 at 10:50 am
New post.
March 10th, 2010 at 11:10 am
RaiderDebo Says:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:47 am
That’s why I say “just about everyone” Stabler. There’s no question in my mind that there are guys on here who want him to fail. Not sayin you’re one of them. By the way, JR does have a knack for pulling out last-second victories, doesn’t he? Give him time on the rest.
===================
No question here either because they’ve SAID it.
Yes, he does. Always has, thats why I was pissed they pulled him outa that KC game like they did.
He’d already engineered a game winning drive against that very team once before.
In college, Russell had 8 come from behind victories in 30 starts.
March 10th, 2010 at 11:28 am
For those of you that are not hip to my man Tate and didn’t want to click the link (NorcoBob), here is the info
Auburn’s Tate lets NFL combine numbers standEmail Print Share tweetAssociated Press
AUBURN, Ala. — Ben Tate spent most of Auburn’s pro day watching, relaxing and trying to stay loose.
The running back was content to let his numbers from the NFL combine stand, and why not? Tate, whose strong senior season was overshadowed by Alabama’s Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram, turned in some of the better stats among running backs at the combine in Indianapolis a couple of weeks ago.
“I think a lot of people were surprised, a lot of the scouts and a lot of you guys in the media,” Tate said Tuesday. “But I knew what I could do the whole time. I’ve been telling y’all I was fast, but no one really wanted to listen to me. My coaches knew, and my family knew.”
Now the NFL scouts do, too. Tate turned in the third-fastest 40-yard time (4.43 seconds) among running backs, behind C.J. Spiller and Jahvid Best.
He was second in the vertical leap, broad jump and 20-yard shuttle run. His 26 repetitions of 225 pounds on the bench press tied for tops with Lonyae Miller.
The solid performance allowed Tate to participate only in position drills at the end of pro day, working with St. Louis Rams running backs coach Sylvester Croom and catching passes from Chris Todd. He said he never considered skipping Auburn’s pro day “because the coaches still want to see you compete.”
Other players working out for pro scouts on Tuesday included defensive end/linebacker Antonio Coleman, cornerback Walt McFadden and quarterback Chris Todd. Coleman was the only other Auburn player invited to the combine.
“When you work as hard as I’ve been working, just to go in and do well at the combine, that makes pro day a little bit easier,” Tate said. “I can sit back and watch those other guys doing those drills. I was even recording some of them. I had fun at the beginning but toward the end I had to start getting focused because it was my time doing position drills.”
Tate rushed for 1,362 yards as a senior in his only year as the fulltime starter, more than doubling the 664 yards he had a junior. Late in the season, he attracted some attention by saying he was the best back in the state, not Ingram.
Tate still finds motivation from any remaining doubters after leading Auburn in rushing the past three years.
“It drives me, it keeps me working hard,” he said. “I don’t mind being the underdog. One day the underdog will be on top.
“I think I’ve been underestimated my whole career.”
He said he had to trim some weight after Auburn’s win over Northwestern in the Outback Bowl.
“I lost some of that fat from the bowl game,” Tate said. “I pigged out down there and got to the bowl game and weighed about 220-something. I’ve never been that heavy before.”
Most projections have Tate as a likely middle-rounds NFL pick, but he preferred not to say what kind of feedback he has been getting or what teams he has already set up meetings with.
Tate’s strong senior year and combine performance can’t hurt, though.
“My junior year was a horrible year, and I came in and worked hard this past year and all the hard work has been paying off,” he said. “I had a great combine and today I did a great job. I can’t really complain. The only thing I can control is what I can do and throughout the process so far I think I’ve done pretty well.”
March 10th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
[...] Read more. [...]
March 11th, 2010 at 4:18 am
[...] McD: Gradkowski keeps grinding Gradkowski keeps grinding – Inside the Oakland Raiders – A look inside the world of the highly class… __________________ RaideroftheSith aka [...]
March 11th, 2010 at 8:00 am
ole dedicated grads. Jamarcus is prob at home thinking idiot your there working I’m watching cheaters on the couch and we still will split equal time for the stating position.