Raiders break with tradition in a good way
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Friday, April 23rd, 2010 at 8:25 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Time will tell whether the selections during the first two days of the NFL draft will help pull the Raiders out of a seven-year tailspin, but the philosophy for the selections of Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain, Texas defensive end Lamarr Houston and Hillsdale offensive tackle Jared Veldheer were accomplished with a different mindset.
“As I said last week during the predraft press conference and again last night, it was important for us to make this team better and put some real need-fitters in this program rather than just numbers guys, if you will,” coach Tom Cable said.
Remember Bruce Campbell, the inconsistent Maryland tackle Al Davis supposedly couldn’t pass up after he blew everybody away at the combine?
He’s still available. The Raiders instead went with Veldheer, an impressive athlete in his own right who was dominant at the Division II level if not quite as perfect physically.
And for those of you who think Davis may have taken a step back from the process _ hence the philosophical shift _ guess again.
When Veldheer visited Oakland about a week and a half ago, he got a 20-minute sit-down with the boss.
“It was great to meet Mr. Davis, being able to meet with the guy who put the league where it is today was a very special thing,” Veldheer told Bay Area reporters by conference call. “He said that he had watched my tape and liked the way I played, discussed with me how he wanted to win another Super Bowl and I know I’m definitely on board with that.”
Because of Veldheer’s small college roots, he was investigated in some ways more thoroughly than McClain and Houston, both of whom were surprised to be drafted by Oakland because of limited contact. Oakland was able to investigate the two run-stoppers through the combine and their own contacts in the business.
“I talked to ‘em at the combine and that was the end of that,” Houston said. “It never crossed my mind that I’d be a Raider.”
While Cable said the Raiders have been even more secretive than usual during the process, they did pretty much what the coach said they would do at a pre-draft press conference _ do something to fortify the offensive and defensive lines and look for players who wanted to come to work and contribute immediately.
“We don’t need knuckleheads, we need champions,” Cable said.
Houston, at 6-foot-2, 305 pounds, will be played at end, and not tackle.
“He’ll play defensive end in our scheme and I suspect the transition will be easy for him,” Cable said. “He played it the first half of his college career. It gives you a guy that gives you the right qualities, in terms of, the football player, the power, the speed, all those things. Very productive. Comes out of a program that’s used to winning, understands how to do that.
“He fits a need for us in the defensive front.”
If Houston is playing end, doesn’t that make the Raiders still in need of defensive tackles? Cable said Friday they were still a 4-3 team, but it’s clear there will be some interesting changes in scheme.
“You’ll see the plan when we get there,” Cable said. “It’s good. You’ll like it. You will like it. We have some things we’re putting together to get it all sorted out. But you’ll see it in minicamp.”
Cable said Houston would play end “because we’re trying to get a little more physical on the defensive front. I think that’s obvious with the first two picks. You’ll see some people moved around a little bit, and it gives us a chance to line (Houston) up at a left end and go wrestle with a tight end all day, and that’s a good thing. I think he’s going to win a lot of those battles.”
Cable said the Raiders had their sights set on Houston, moved back twice to get extra picks Saturday, and still were able to select him. At Texas, Houston was one of the leaders on a defense that led the nation in rushing defense in 2009 (72.36 yards per game) after finishing third in 2008 (83.54) and sixth in 2007 (93.38).
As for Veldheer, Cable doesn’t see a protracted developmental period and said there was no set plan on whether he’d play right tor left tackle.
For the record, Cable said there was no thought to drafting Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen.
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April 23rd, 2010 at 8:30 pm
1st
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Nnamdi21 Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:26 pm
Veldheer
http://www.raidernationstation.com/draftermath
“On the limited game tape that is available of him, Veldheer looks awfully impressive really exploding into defenders and using leverage to his advantage. At 6’8”, 312lbs. he has the physique of an NFL starting tackle and the athleticism of a tight end. His fluidity of movement is effortless and he really has no difficulty staying between defenders and his quarterback on the edge.”
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:33 pm
I’m pretty sure we’re going to run a defense similar to what Arizona did in its Super Bowl year with a real mix of 3-4 and 4-3.
Houston seems like much more of a 3-4 DE than a 4-3 DE.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:34 pm
Not because Clausen’s an a hole, but because Oakland is set at QB for the next decade…I pray…
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:34 pm
Cable keeps throwing potshots at our 290 pound QB
Right on!!
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:34 pm
Great draft so far. It looks like we will be playing the 3-4 alot this year. Lamar looks like a good solid player. Al is making too much sense this year. I expect a reach for db and a few more DT’s and Oline guys.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:35 pm
Chris,
I think you are right. I think we are playing more 3-4 this year and Cable just dont want to admit it to the league.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Al better dump JR before Cable unleashes the pimp hand
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:41 pm
aig Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:35 pm
Chris,
I think you are right. I think we are playing more 3-4 this year and Cable just dont want to admit it to the league.
===================
We will play 3-4 packages as we’ve done, but Marshall’s a 4-3 guy brought in by Al to run a 4-3 defensive base.
Some good looking picks. excited.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Yeah Baby!!!!!! The Koolaid is tasting good right now. Another round for the faithfull.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:42 pm
The Raiders have had an excellent draft! So much more impressive than years past. For fans, it is the hope this draft provides that last year’s draft deprived us. If only these players perform like Shaugnessy and Murphy, and Bryant.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:44 pm
Go Al!!! Fugg all you haterz!! =)
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Broncos panicked over Tebow.
I wish the media would rip the Broncos for their debacle of a 1st round.
That was a joke.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:46 pm
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817bc745&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Raiders drafted well.
Broncos drafted well.
Chiefs drafted well.
AFC West looking to bring it in a few years!
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Whoever has been running the late rounds of the draft recently obviously took complete control and said look Al we need production not potential and fortunately Al bit.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:51 pm
I’m always optimistic about the Raiders except when they’re getting beat down like they did against the Jets and Giants this year or other similar blowout losses. So I’m hoping for the best with all these picks.
However, while everyone else seems to be gushing about a great draft thus far, I’m not all that excited.
1) McClain: We need a run-stuffing MLB but I just don’t think McClain was worth the No. 8 pick. I hope I’m wrong and I definitely could be. The kid has been highly decorated throughout his high school and college career. But I see a guy who plays too high, has average athleticism and had a great surrounding cast and coaching staff that surely helped him look good. I like the fact that he’s considered a smart player and he seems to read and react light years better than Kirk. Not the guy I would’ve picked but I hope I’m wrong.
2) Lamarr Houston: Talented player and big factor on Texas’ highly talented defense. Didn’t pay that much attention to him because I didn’t think we’d take another 3-technique DT that high with Kelly, Seymour, Joseph and Bryant all being in that mold and no NT to speak of. I probably would’ve preferred addressing some other needs, however, I think he’ll be a good player so I’ll take him.
3) Jared Veldheer: Can’t pretend to have seen much of Hillsdale this year so I’m not going to rip the kid. But from what I’ve read sounds like a slightly slower, shorter-armed D-II version of Bruce Campbell. Many great o-linemen — even in recent years — have come out of nowheresville colleges like this, so I guess I’ll reserve judgment. Just put my Veldheer jersey on hold for now.
On the bright side, I like the additions of Wimbley and Groves in pre-draft trades. And I love the fact that we still have 6 picks left and there are plenty of players out there who I still really like.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:53 pm
OK we are going to run a lot of 3-4, if that is the case who is our NT??? Is it Jeatusoutofhouseandhome?
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:53 pm
i don’t think the Broncos drafted so well 73, reached on 2 1st rounders and got “decent” OL later, Decker could be a good pick, but no impact players for the Donks
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:53 pm
Wow. If Houston is LDE you got to wonder if richardson and Seymour will be used mostly inside. Matt S is still in the mix. More 3-4 seems logical too. The old scheme was so outdated anything would be good.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:56 pm
Wow Houston at DE, trade up and grab Cam Thomas as our NT! I was actually right lol, Seymour and Houston at DE with Thomas or Cody(he was available at the time) at NT.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:56 pm
Al’s gonna let the ATHLETES run around if we switch over to some 3-4 looks, can’t wait. I also look forward to some 3 safety looks with Mike Mitchell in the box.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Yeah Guy if we get Cam Thomas with our 4th that would be SICK, another impact player who can play now!!
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:59 pm
Veldheer has better MUCH better film than Campbell with only slightly lower competition. A dominant Div II vs an avg ACC guy? Veldheer is far more skilled and more athletic than the freak in several areas. With OL agility and footwork trump 40 time.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:00 pm
chrisram73 Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Raiders drafted well.
Broncos drafted well.
Chiefs drafted well.
AFC West looking to bring it in a few years!
—————————-
I’ve gotta disagree.
- Haven’t been blown away by our draft but will remain optimistic.
- Chiefs got Berry who should be great, but didn’t they have bigger needs than McCluster at the top of Round 2? Had no interest in picking him. And what does he do for them that Jamaal Charles can’t.
- Donks have had a wacky draft. If the Raiders had done those things we’d be getting laughed at by every TV analyst jagoff and obnoxious fan you could find.
- Chargers grossly overpaid to move up and get Matthews, who is definitely good but has a long injury history and plays probably the deepest position in the league in terms of talent.
I’ve been quite happy with the decisions the other AFC West teams have been making lately.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:00 pm
If Houston is going to be a DE, I’d like to see:
4. DT Cam Thomas
5. G Mitch Petrus
5. CB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah
6. OT Sam Young or Bruce Campbell, or C Matt Tennant
7. FB Matt Clapp
Trade some picks in next year’s draft for QB Troy Smith, or wait until Jason Campbell gets cut by Washington.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Coach on Wheels Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:59 pm
Veldheer has better MUCH better film than Campbell with only slightly lower competition. A dominant Div II vs an avg ACC guy? Veldheer is far more skilled and more athletic than the freak in several areas. With OL agility and footwork trump 40 time.
———————-
How many Hillsdale games have you seen? And did they cover the spread against the Fashion Institute of Technology this year?
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:02 pm
I agree 100% Chris
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:02 pm
I think Decker and McCluster are gonna be great pro’s. Decker can catch in traffic. McCluster is a lighter version of Percy harvin. Even Monte Kiffin’s D with Dan Williamns and Eric Berry can’t stop McCluster from getting 276 rushing yds on them. McCluster for rookie of the year.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
xfactor,
good call on veldheer. I expected Tony Washington but never even heard of Veld.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
how much would it take to move back into the 4th? I have no knowledge of this so sorry if I sound stupid but maybe we trade our 4th and like a 6th and 7th to move up to the rams 4th rounder to be sure we can have Thomas.
The Vikings, Skins, and the texans may be looking for a NT. Would a team give up a 4th for Morrison? I am pretty sure Al would want Akwasi.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
GREAT DRAFT SO FAR!!! TAKE MATT NICHOLS (QB- EWU) IN THE FIFTH!!!!!!!!!!!
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
The thing about Bruce Campbell if you watch him play, is that he lunges at defenders instead of getting his feet set and dominating them at the line.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
First off…I called Houston becoming a DE but I didn’t know he would be the LE. I was thinking RE because hes very good at rushing the passer as a big man.
As far as Veldheer, this pick reminds me of the Mike Mitchell pick in the 2nd round last year.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:05 pm
I think the Raider D has the potential to be pretty fierce this coming season. They are defenitely deeper in the front seven. I believe they are going to attack QB’s IN WAVES! Cable talking about moving L. Houston to DE kinda confuses me though. I thought we were set at end with Seymour, ShoNasty and maybe Groves,Wimbley, and or Trevor Scott putting a hand down on passing downs. DT is where I thought we were thin, with the release of Warren. Apparently they are still in the market for a run stuffer in the middle. Who is still available? Travis Ivey? Is Cam Thomas considered a run stuffer?
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:05 pm
If the Raiders are going to use Houston at DE, I’d like to see the rest of the draft go like this:
4. DT Cam Thomas
5. G Mitch Petrus or Marshall Newhouse
5. CB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah
6. OT Sam Young or Bruce Campbell, or C Matt Tennant
7. FB Matt Clapp
Trade some picks in next year’s draft for QB Troy Smith, or wait until Jason Campbell gets cut by Washington.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:06 pm
I really think Al is going to give JRuss one more shot, I mean I would like to see us pick up Troy Smith, familiar with OC and has a big arm, but I think Al is going to ride with JRuss this year and go to Bruce if he struggles. If JRuss has his average season then we move on, look for the kid out of Stanford.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:07 pm
Anybody else big on Matt Nichols in the late rounds? Or is it just me…
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:08 pm
Aig, Tony Washington is a good prospect and I think we might be able to get him in the 5th or 6th because of his “off field issues”
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:09 pm
I think at best McCluster is another Troy Brown (former Patriot). Troy, you may recall, was one of Pioli’s guys on the Patriots. Small and not all that fast but exceptionally quick and could make things happen. Not a Pro Bowl type guy at all, but a nice role player. That’s what I see in McCluster.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Chris,
al didnt reach for Veldheer…here is what Pat Kirwin said.
Small-school prospect with a chance
The big colleges usually gobble up the large, athletic kids coming out of high school, but keep an eye on two prospects with a real chance to have good careers.
Hillsdale College’s Jared Veldheer, a gigantic tackle candidate at 6-8, 312, and Massachusetts’ Vlad Ducasse, a guard-tackle type, are worth keeping an eye on.
In sitting with a few offensive line coaches at the combine, they really liked the movement skills from Veldheer. Even though Ducasse struggled at the Senior Bowl, he demonstrated the athletic ability to make it. Both prospects need time, but look for them to come off the board in the second or third round.
—————-
The fans didnt know about him but the scouts did.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Current Roster
DT – D Bryant,W Joseph, T Kelly,
DE – C Cooper, q Groves, G Gunheim, J Richardson, M Shuaghnessy, R Seymour, L Houston
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Will Akwasi be available in the 5th? I think we may need to switch him with Petrus/Newhouse. Change Campbell to Tony Washington, I think someone will take a chance on the workout warrior.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:13 pm
Groves is listed as a LB Coach on Wheels
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:14 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
The thing about Bruce Campbell if you watch him play, is that he lunges at defenders instead of getting his feet set and dominating them at the line.
————————–
I feel like that’s what happens oftentimes with guys who are so physically superior to their opponents in college. They rely on their athleticism to bail them out and develop bad habits in terms of technique.
But if they’re coachable and hard-working — and Campbell definitely seems like a good kid from everything I’ve seen — that’s the kind of stuff that’s correctable. You can correct technique if a guy’s willing to work. But you can’t just slap 36 inch arms, tight end caliber agility, a chiseled 6-5 315 pound frame and elite physical power onto a guy.
I don’t think we even get a chance to pass on him again.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Plunketthead Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Al better dump JR before Cable unleashes the pimp hand
——————————————-
you daaaaaamn right(in shafts voice).
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Goodnight Raider fans.
looking forward to tomorrow. Still some good football players available.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:16 pm
Everson Griffen @ 106?
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:17 pm
Chris,
dont look at McCluster for his size or 40 speed. The guy can bench 20x 225 for 175lbs. He is quicker than fast. He has tons of moves and The D hardly ever get a good lick on him in the SEC. I was hoping we’d get him but he can do WR and RB. I’m telling you he is a lighter version of Percy Harvin.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:17 pm
Do we need more pass rushing linebackers? We need Cam Thomas, Mitch Petrus, Akwasi, then a center in that order.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:18 pm
Chris
Mayock broke down film on both and said Mr V was an excellent pick. He also said he’d never pick campbell if he were GM.
It is easier to see a big guy with good technique adapt to NFL competition than a track guy with poor skills improve. v was a top 10 OT on most boards. according to pft Campbell was a 4th rder on most boards.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:18 pm
I know Al is going to reach tomorrow. The old geezer can’t help himself so I still expect a shot at Campbell or Tony Washington.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:20 pm
aig Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Chris,
al didnt reach for Veldheer…here is what Pat Kirwin said.
Small-school prospect with a chance
The big colleges usually gobble up the large, athletic kids coming out of high school, but keep an eye on two prospects with a real chance to have good careers.
Hillsdale College’s Jared Veldheer, a gigantic tackle candidate at 6-8, 312, and Massachusetts’ Vlad Ducasse, a guard-tackle type, are worth keeping an eye on.
In sitting with a few offensive line coaches at the combine, they really liked the movement skills from Veldheer. Even though Ducasse struggled at the Senior Bowl, he demonstrated the athletic ability to make it. Both prospects need time, but look for them to come off the board in the second or third round.
—————-
The fans didnt know about him but the scouts did.
——————————–
I was aware of him. And from everything I’ve read he was projected as a 3rd rounder so I’m not saying it was a reach. I’ve just been really high on Campbell for awhile and I’m afraid this is going to be the time we pass on the athletic freak and that freak goes on to be a Hall of Fame type talent.
Watch Bruce Campbell become the cautionary tale for the “don’t overlook the workout phenom” in future draft chatter — kind of the revers of the Mike Mamula story. Similar to how Moss and Sapp are remembered when teams pass on talented players with “character issues.”
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:20 pm
Yeah stupid “official roster” had Groves and Wimbely as DE and no Seymour at all. yeesh.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:20 pm
I think the Broncos ARE getting criticism for their draft.
Tom Waddle and even Tom Jackson got stuck into Josh McDaniels and think they made terrible draft moves.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:20 pm
I would take Tony Washington over Campbell any day. Read he was a first round talent but went to a small school and you know the incident with his sister. I would prefer what I said in post 50 though.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:22 pm
I think Al drafted V to play right Guard. he got short arms so another Robert Gallery?
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:22 pm
I played with Matt Nichols at EWU from 05-08 and he is the real deal. I played safety and had to go up against him everyday and loved to hate him in practice because he would always find a way to thread the ball into traffic. Not the classic Al Davis pick but a competitor who loves to win above all else and would be a great QB to groom.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:23 pm
I’m with you Chris on Campbell. I’m all for taking a risk on campbell now.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:24 pm
Are there any Nose tackles other than Thomas left? Atleast V. wasn’t a top ten pick like Gallery.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:25 pm
aig Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:17 pm
Chris,
dont look at McCluster for his size or 40 speed. The guy can bench 20x 225 for 175lbs. He is quicker than fast. He has tons of moves and The D hardly ever get a good lick on him in the SEC. I was hoping we’d get him but he can do WR and RB. I’m telling you he is a lighter version of Percy Harvin.
———————–
I said he’s exceptionally quick, just not all that fast and extremely small. I think he’s another Troy Brown. Hell, Troy Brown had a very long career and won several rings in New England. He was a great role player. But if you’re a team like the Chiefs who have been at the bottom of the barrel for almost as long as we have, I think I’d swing a little bigger and try to fill some more pressing needs.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:25 pm
Chris – Campbell is a value pick in the 4th while Mr V was as you said a 3rd. Campbell is like a Mike Bush pick. big risk but possible big reward. I wouldn’t be upset if they get him here on.
i like the Cam idea too.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:28 pm
Look for us to grab a RB tomorrow, Cable said yesterday he wants to address the lines and RB in the draft.
So far I really like the picks, hopefully we can get a guard who can step in and start next year, along with a starting FB. My God, most of the posts today are positive, I have NEVER seen that on here before.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:28 pm
Wishful thinking:
4. DT Cam Thomas
5. CB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah
5. G Mitch Petrus or Marshall Newhouse
6. OT Sam Young or C Matt Tennant
7. RB LeGarrette Blount
7. FB Matt Clapp
Trade some picks in next year’s draft for QB Troy Smith, or wait until Jason Campbell gets cut by Washington.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:30 pm
Campbell is obviously the guy I really, really want next. I said it in the previous two rounds and was wrong but I have a very strong feeling we’ll have to move up possibly all the way to the Rams pick to get him now. Maybe our 4th and 6th would get that done.
Other than Campbell I’d be pleased with Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina or Mike Kafka, QB, Northwestern.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:31 pm
Im on Board with a DT an OG and a QB…Jarrett Brown in the 6th or Mike Kafka in the 5th if we don’t trade any of our 6 remaining picks! This could be a helluva draft for the Raiders.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:31 pm
64 That would be a dream draft, but we may need to trade up for Thomas. Vikings, Texans, and Skins may be looking for a NT. Not sure about the eagles or seahawks. To be safe, I’d try to unload howard or morrison or both for the rams 4th rounder. I think Howard may fit in Tampa’s system too.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:32 pm
Chris,
guys like Sproles gives us hell. I think McCluster has more tools than Sproles. I think we are going to struggle to contain that guy when we face them.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:33 pm
# Guy Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:31 pm
64 That would be a dream draft, but we may need to trade up for Thomas. Vikings, Texans, and Skins may be looking for a NT. Not sure about the eagles or seahawks. To be safe, I’d try to unload howard or morrison or both for the rams 4th rounder. I think Howard may fit in Tampa’s system too.
——————
That would not be a bad idea at all. At least that way we get some value out of Morrison or Howard, instead of having to cut one (or both) of them.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Kafka and Canfield (oregon state) both visited the Raiders so I expect one of these 2 guys to be taken later. I think Canfield because he has a stronger arm and we know all about that with Al.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:34 pm
As for RB I really like Blount, Lonyae Miller and Joe McKnight. Really like all three of those guys. McKnight is the speedy, big-play guy. Blount is the 245 pound hammer. Miller is the guy who can break off the big play but also goes about 6-0, 225.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:35 pm
I agree.
Pick up Campbell if he is still around. Moving up to grab him should not be a problem. We need another Guard ASAP and a DT. I take it up its a toss up btwn CB and QB in the 5th for me.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:36 pm
I think Blount will drop because of “character concerns”. The Raiders could take him with a 6th or 7th rounder. He’d help a whole lot in goal line situations.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:37 pm
aig Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:32 pm
Chris,
guys like Sproles gives us hell. I think McCluster has more tools than Sproles. I think we are going to struggle to contain that guy when we face them.
——————-
Sproles is a really talented guy who’s more powerful and has greater breakaway speed than McCluster. McCluster has better hands. Pretty much a tie in terms of quickness. Don’t forget Sproles was a phenomenal player at Kansas State. I believe he was even more productive in college than McCluster but I’d have to go back and check the stats.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:41 pm
4. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
5. Mike Kafka, QB, Northwestern
5. Lonyae Miller, RB, Fresno State
6. Jon Conner, FB, Kentucky
7. Travis Ivey, DT, Maryland
Hit up Kevin Mawae, a reasonable No. 4 CB and maybe even T.O. in free agency.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:41 pm
DT – Thomas was a projected 2-3 rd guy. A good value at #8 in the 4th. A center or guard maybe nice too.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Forgot we have another 7th:
4. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
5. Mike Kafka, QB, Northwestern
5. Lonyae Miller, RB, Fresno State
6. Jon Conner, FB, Kentucky
7. Travis Ivey, DT, Maryland
7. Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech
Hit up Kevin Mawae, a reasonable No. 4 CB and maybe even T.O. in free agency.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:44 pm
Looks like we can get a qb with out 2nd 5th rd pick.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:44 pm
“We don’t need knuckleheads, we need champions,” Cable said.
There is no doubt who he is talking about…
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:47 pm
man, i tell you…if you can make the money, come out and forget college balls.
All projected first rounders in 09 – Taylor Mays, Greg Hardy DE, Javon Sneade QB. Dumba$$$es came back to college for what? Now they are all losing a ton of money. Javon Sneade had a 1 game wonder like Jamarcus and he could have cashed in big time.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:49 pm
Chris in NY Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Forgot we have another 7th:
4. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
5. Mike Kafka, QB, Northwestern
5. Lonyae Miller, RB, Fresno State
6. Jon Conner, FB, Kentucky
7. Travis Ivey, DT, Maryland
7. Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech
If we went that route we will have added through the draft and draft-related trades:
- 3 o-linemen
- 3 LBs
- 2 DTs
- 1 QB
- 1 RB
- 1 FB
That would be a perfect formula for bolstering the trenches on both sides of the ball and adding a couple skill position guys in Round 5 with intriguing upside.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:51 pm
Question is…is JR still being a knuckle-head to have now twice been targeted by Cable in comments in two days.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:51 pm
ok guys so far so good there are stil plety of football players out there who can help us out…
4th rd. game breaker wr/kr jacoby ford
5th rd. mike kafka qb
5th rd. strongest man in the draft jeff owens nt — i beleive he popped off 225lbs 44 times
6th rd. og brandon carter or jeff byers i like byers here cuz he can also play center
7th. rd fb conner or jameson konz
7th. rd. stafon johnson rb SO CAL
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:55 pm
How about a kick returner cause we sucked at that
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
got it for you fat boy next pick jacoby ford
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:58 pm
What happened to all of the positivity? Wow. Now suddenly everyone is talking Russell and how he’s dragging down the team. You guys are wet towels. Killjoys. I’m celebrating the draft, and all of your debbie downers keep talking about how Russell is going to ruin everything.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:58 pm
JR will always be a knucklehead.
The first time I heard him interviewed, I thought, “Uh, oh…”
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:59 pm
No
4th: try to trade up to get cam thomas just to be safe. If they get him, go Washington or Campbell
5a. Akwasi
5b. Petrus
6a. Brandon Carter/Marshall Newhouse/center
6b. Center/Brandon Carter/Newhouse
7a. FB
7b. Fast guy
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:59 pm
I think Tebow has character issues.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:00 pm
You guys are too negative. Any real fans in here want to stop being negative and join me in celebrating this great draft? Everyone is talking about how bad Russell is. Depressing.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:01 pm
Losman, Frye, Gradkowski and Boller should all pay really close attention at what’s going on right now with the draft. It is a complete retooling job and if they were smart, they would realize that the QB job is wide open for the taking.
If they really want it, they need to work their butts off and be really smart with their play making decisions and seize the opportunity.
I don’t include Russell in this list because he has shown no passion for the game. Though I still believe that Al will have him starting the season, so in order for that not to happen would be for one of the other QBs to make such an impact during training camp and preseason that it would be extremely hard to justify Russell starting.
Kafka is the next Brady. (5th round selection)
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:02 pm
Kafka could be good, but I really like Dan LeFevour.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Just a quick question, why did the Raiders settle for a sixth rounder from the patriots when they got a fifth rounder from the Bucs, they should have asked for a fifth rounder. The Bucs moved up three spots and we got a fifth for that, the Patriots moved up two spots we got a late sixth round what the hell???
Patriots receive:
Second-round pick (No. 42)
Raiders receive:
Second-round pick (No. 44) Sixth-round pick (No. 190)
Buccaneers receive:
Second-round pick (No. 39)
Raiders receive:
Second-round pick (No. 42)Fifth-round pick (No. 153)
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:08 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
got it for you fat boy next pick jacoby ford
………………………………………
i did not like him on video he had good hands ,he is too fast,a track star,he was always wide open, and when he wasnt he still caught the ball,and when he was returning kicks he always ends up in the end zone.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:11 pm
Raiders4eve Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Just a quick question, why did the Raiders settle for a sixth rounder from the patriots when they got a fifth rounder from the Bucs, they should have asked for a fifth rounder. The Bucs moved up three spots and we got a fifth for that, the Patriots moved up two spots we got a late sixth round what the hell???
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i thought the same thing i dont know why we didnt get a 5th rd pick either.. i didnt get that.. im still pleased with getting a havoc reeker in houston tho
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:11 pm
# YoungAmerican Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:02 pm
Kafka could be good, but I really like Dan LeFevour.
——
I agree. Not sure how long he’ll last but he’s a quality prospect.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:13 pm
# fat kidd Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:08 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
got it for you fat boy next pick jacoby ford
………………………………………
i did not like him on video he had good hands ,he is too fast,a track star,he was always wide open, and when he wasnt he still caught the ball,and when he was returning kicks he always ends up in the end zone.
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what??? i dont get u fatt boy what are u talking about
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:14 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:13 pm
# fat kidd Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:08 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
got it for you fat boy next pick jacoby ford
………………………………………
i did not like him on video he had good hands ,he is too fast,a track star,he was always wide open, and when he wasnt he still caught the ball,and when he was returning kicks he always ends up in the end zone.
########################################
what??? i dont get u fatt boy what are u talking about
joking meant i like him
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:19 pm
# fat kidd Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:14 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:13 pm
# fat kidd Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:08 pm
30 year raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
got it for you fat boy next pick jacoby ford
………………………………………
i did not like him on video he had good hands ,he is too fast,a track star,he was always wide open, and when he wasnt he still caught the ball,and when he was returning kicks he always ends up in the end zone.
########################################
what??? i dont get u fatt boy what are u talking about
joking meant i like him
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oh ok listen i know for months you have been STRESSING THE RETURN GAME… i agree i cant help but remember on thanksgiving game at cowboys stadium the kid next to me sayin ” whos that fat kick-returner yall have” it was embarising watching gary russel back there…
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:19 pm
does anyone know if Dan LeFevour visited the Raiders?
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:20 pm
100. aig Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:19 pm
does anyone know if Dan LeFevour visited the Raiders?
###################################
no he did not
only kafka and canfield
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:21 pm
Guys I think we might have our eyes on on the final day:
LeFevour, Dan QB Central Michigan
Kafka, Mike QB Northwestern
Blount, LeGarrette RB Oregon
Mitchell, Carlton WR South Florida
Campbell, Bruce OT Maryland
Carter, Brandon OG Texas Tech
Thomas, Cam DT North Carolina
Owusu-Ansah, Akwasi CB Indiana (PA)
Rolle, Myron SS Florida State (sorry, love this guy)
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:21 pm
I can’t wait until Tebow gets to The Black Hole…and McClain owns his azz all over again.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Then I dont think we are taking him. I have learned that for the mid rounds Al has a tendency to take guys that visited the Raiders HQ.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:23 pm
# MattHenry Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:21 pm
I can’t wait until Tebow gets to The Black Hole…and McClain owns his azz all over again.
##########################
RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:25 pm
Jared Valdheer video….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZUoHh8gupE
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:26 pm
I am very pleased with the draft. The Raiders will still need to get a DT, unless they plan to kick Seymour inside.
Whether its Cam Thomas or some guy at the end of the draft/UFA
Moving Seymour inside makes the most sense
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:29 pm
As far as I’m concerned Cam Thomas is a beast of a player who, if he’s available when the Raiders pick, is way too talented to pass up.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:30 pm
# SnB offense defense specialteams Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:26 pm
I am very pleased with the draft. The Raiders will still need to get a DT, unless they plan to kick Seymour inside.
Whether its Cam Thomas or some guy at the end of the draft/UFA
Moving Seymour inside makes the most sense
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YES we def need another dt me personally i would like us to go after jeff owens dt u of georgia very strong 44 reps at 225lbs…
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:35 pm
# YoungAmerican Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:29 pm
As far as I’m concerned Cam Thomas is a beast of a player who, if he’s available when the Raiders pick, is way too talented to pass up.
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i would not be upset with him in 4th rd but i think at some point we need to address the return game with some sort of a game changer ala jacoby ford…
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:37 pm
30 Year,
Yeah, I have to admit I am a little confused. Moving Houston to DE would either mean Seymour inside or Shaughnessy in a different role.
Regardless, neither Bryant or Joseph are really starters inside. So something has to be done and I think they realize that based on what happened last year.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:43 pm
Good evenin SNB, Kirk, COW, C n NY, MR, NATION!
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:44 pm
some stats on jared veldheer
4.82 in the 40-yard dash…1.75 10-yard dash…2.84 20-yard dash…4.52 20-yard shuttle…7.56 three-cone drill…29 ¾-inch vertical jump…Bench pressed 225 pounds 32 times…415-pound bench press…425-pound hang clean.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:45 pm
I heard there were quite a few Raiders scouts checking lefevour out at a arizona central michigan game early last season.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:47 pm
30 Year Raider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:23 pm
# MattHenry Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:21 pm
I can’t wait until Tebow gets to The Black Hole…and McClain owns his azz all over again.
##########################
RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
——————————
Just imagine 4th and inches tebow running the wild donkey up the middle and getting laid out by RoMac.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:50 pm
I don’t get Cable saying Houston is going to be a DE…And I believe Seymour stays at DE too. So our first pick tomorrow will be a DT, IMO.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:51 pm
We have too many needs to address them all in one draft, we’re still another year away from being a legit playoff contender (and QB situation needs to be figured out.) But I am pumped, feels like we’re figuring out what to do, esp. on defense.
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:53 pm
I think Cam Thomas and Al Woods from LSU are the only notable Nose tackles left. What teams before us need a big NT?
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:58 pm
As long as Mr. Davis brings the Raiders the goods to consolidate a efficient & resilient collective,he will prove unconventional wisdom will keep the Raiders in the ball game.
Raiders Be With You
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:04 pm
“to consolidate a efficient & resilient collective”
Nope, somebody slipped sleeping pills into Al’s jello and took over the draft.
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:05 pm
Cam Thomas sounds good, or a guard.
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:08 pm
RaiderMario – yeah, no one mentions Rolle, that guy was a stud 2 years ago.
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:10 pm
# Guy Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 10:53 pm
I think Cam Thomas and Al Woods from LSU are the only notable Nose tackles left. What teams before us need a big NT?
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jeff owens,arthur jones,gino atkins……….i really like owens watched some georgia games this guy is tough… i hope we get him strongest guy in the draft.. did 225lbs 44 times incredible strengh..
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:11 pm
The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 6:18 pm
Raider75, find the comment where I say that McClain “can’t” do anything, and I’ll answer that question.
—————————————–
Shut up twerp
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:16 pm
c you in the morning, more picks tomm i want
dtx2
kr/pr
fb
og/c x2
qb
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:17 pm
Real ModdinRaider….no one really cares about your opinions.
Get lost. Period, Don’t bother responding, Word, Book it, PERIOD.
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:38 pm
# Mistabr0wn Says:
April 23rd, 2010 at 6:32 pm
DeboSeyGlen, you even get being first wrong!
lmao
===========================================
lmao? Dude, you have officially lost your mind. Whatever very little mind God gave you, has OFFICIALLY been used up. Sucks to be you dude.
April 23rd, 2010 at 11:53 pm
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