Too many fullbacks
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, August 28th, 2007 at 3:06 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Justin Griffith draws his first start at fullback for the Raiders Thursday night in Seattle in one of the more interesting position battles which will be sorted out Saturday with the final cut to 53.
Griffith is joined on the roster by veteran Zack Crockett and rookie Oren O’Neal, a sixth-round draft pick.
Crockett has been with the Raiders since 1999 and has taken most of the first-team reps in the first three preseason games. Griffith was signed as a free agent from Atlanta, in part because he was a system fit having played there under offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and offensive line coach Tom Cable.
O’Neal, a sixth-round draft pick from Arkansas State, may be too raw to help as a fullback but too promising to expose to the waiver wire. If O’Neal is cut, he can only be added to the practice squad if no other team adds him to their 53-man roster.
At 5-foot-11 and 242 pounds, O’Neal looked good early in camp as a receiver and blocker. He slumped in terms of receiving, but has come on to play better of late. He had a punishing block on Chris Carr’s 80-yard kickoff return against St. Louis.
“It’s really an interesting battle between the three guys,” coach Lane Kiffin said. “We’re going to take this game into account before (compiling) the final roster.”
With Griffith signed specifically because of his familiarity with the offense, the competition would seem to be between Crockett and O’Neal, who can be difficult to tell apart from a distance because of their similar builds and the dreadlocks flowing from underneath their helmets.
At age 34 and entering his 13th season, trading Crockett is not a likely option.
There is one other option Kiffin said he is considering _ keeping all three.
“It’s a possibility, yes,” Kiffin said.
Griffith and Crockett both have the capability to run out of a single-back set, and the Raiders will be down a runner for the first four games as Dominic Rhodes serves a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
During that time, Rhodes is not counted against the 53-man roster.
Upon Griffith’s return, keeping all three could be too much of a luxury. LaMont Jordan is the starting running back, while Adimchiobe Echemandu leads the NFL this preseason with 153 yards rushing, and Justin Fargas is Oakland’s top returning rusher with 659 yards.
News and notes from Tuesday:
– Tight ends John Madsen (hamstring), Tony Stewart (back) and O.J. Santiago (hamstring) all returned to practice and should be available to face Seattle.
In fact, every player remaining on the Raiders roster was healthy enough to practice. Only Michael Bush, on the preseason physically unable to perform list, did not practice. That includes safety Donovin Darius, who should see time against Seattle, Kiffin said.
– Kiffin on the release of Johnnie Morant: “Johnnie did improve, did some good things for us but was not going to make our final roster.”
– Kiffin on the release of Kevin Huntley: “It was a matter of us going with the two rookies (Quentin Moses and Jay Richardson) and not having enough spots for him.”
Huntley went through the locker room exchanging numbers and saying goodbye to teammates after practice.
– Kiffin on the release of Doug Gabriel: “Doug was not going to be one of our final receivers. We just have guys that we feel fit our offense better than him.”
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August 28th, 2007 at 3:12 pm
Hard not to like Crockett. Always played hard for us, and 14 Blast almost always guaranteed a third-and-one conversion.
August 28th, 2007 at 3:22 pm
Keep Crockett and Griffith. Put O’neal on the waiver wire and pick him up for the Practice Squad! Morant wasn’t a player, nor Gabriel…I like all the other cuts…Go Raiders!!
August 28th, 2007 at 4:35 pm
I almost hurts seeing Huntley go. I think it was the way he stepped it up at the end of last year. But I cant say I am worried about the DE future for us. Richardson has had a good preseason and shows the Raiders still know how to uses the value picks. Moses has a great future in front of him.
I like O’Neal and would like to see him in the future- but I think he will make it through the waiver period and refine his technique on the practice squad.
Best part is Kiffin’s attitude about it - Trimming the roster would suck but in a season where it seems Coaches have been mean spirited about the way they cut or hold onto players (Simeon Rice- Trent Green - DC) his approach is straight forward and respectful.
August 28th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
Kiffin is, to borrow a quote from the movie Beerfest, a “sneaky bastard” and I like it. We may have 8 QB’s and 27 FB’s you never know, and they all are possible starters he says. Keep them guessing coach.
I like Crockett BUT his time as our “money” short yardage guy has passed. O’Neal is a special teams guy and laid some pad popping blocks for Eche during the preseason. I just don’t see how a rebuilding team can keep Crockett. It sucks but it is reality.
O’Neal could make it to the practice squad. Many NFL teams don’t even carry a pure FB and few carry more than one.
THE SNEAKY PLAN - Keep Griffith and O’Neal. After game four, waive O’Neal to make room for Rhodes. By then other teams will be set so the chances of someone grabbing a 6th round back-up FB is a lot lower than doing it now while rosters are still being fiddled with.
August 28th, 2007 at 4:48 pm
Then add O’Neal to the practice squad.
August 28th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
If we keep 3 FB’s then I believe we release Fargas. Crockett has proven that he can play HB on a limited basis and he can be our 3rd RB behind Jordan and Echemandu until Rhodes comes back from his suspension. I also don’t think we have a short yardage back and we still need Crockett for that purpose as Jordan has proven that he can’t hold onto the ball when it counts the most, which was proven in the last game. We can put Bush on IR or the PUP list and wait until someone proves they arent worth keeping after week 7 and acitivate him. Maybe Crockett can be expendable at that time?
I was surprised by the Huntley release but I would agree that Moses and Richardson showed alot of promise and deserve to be on this team. Kelly and Brayton are interchangeable as tehy can play DT and DE so that covers are depth beyond getting Warren to add some beef.
August 28th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
please keep O’Neil and Crockett… After game four cut Crockett or trade him to NYG whom by then finally acknowledge they need a FB this year
August 28th, 2007 at 4:55 pm
Bush can replace Crockett as our Goal Line back after week 7.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:14 pm
I’d keep the three fullbacks and lose Fargas. We need some good special teams players like O’Neal and he has shown some very good potential as a blocker too. Crockett’s and Griffith’s versatility gives us four guys who could line up at half-back, if needed, until Rhodes returns following his four-game suspension.
Fargas is very athletic but doesn’t have the vision, instincts or tackle-breaking ability to be a difference-maker. The other six guys (counting Rhodes) all have more potential to either help us right now or in the future.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:15 pm
Bush hasn’t practiced with the team all summer is still on the PUP…. but will take over for Crockett in week 7??? you sure are full of yourself aren’t you?
August 28th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Bush could come back in week 7 and replace Crockett as a “Short Yardage Back”. I think your name suits you well.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
I hate dreadlocks.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:25 pm
hey towelboy…huff24 ….you know…football expert….Bush either goes on the IR or the 53 man roster….where’s he coming back from in week 7??
August 28th, 2007 at 5:35 pm
Here’s what I would do:
RB (3): Jordan, Rhodes, Echemandu
FB (3): Griffith, Crockett, O’Neal
PUP/IR: Bush
Cut: Fargas
Crockett serves as another RB as well, esp. while Rhodes is out. O’Neal plays ST.
I like Coach on Wheel’s sneaky plan though.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:36 pm
Oh, and Huffnpuff24, if Bush starts the season on the PUP list, he doesn’t count against the active roster until Week 7, at which point we have to make a spot for him on the 53 man roster or put him on IR.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:41 pm
He can be activated off of the PUP list in week 7 if he stays on it but he either has to be cut or or put on IR before week 10.
Also…just to get it over with…I played Pop Warner and High School football. I have loved and played football all my life and have been a Raider fan since 1989. I am 5′8 155lbs so it wasn’t realistic to continue playing and I went into the Military after I graduated High School. Outside of that, I follow the game and the Raiders religiously. I have an opinion like everybody else and don’t think I know everything. I obviously said something you didn’t like but do we all agree with everything everybody says? No…so get over it.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
word
August 28th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Screw that guy, Huff24, I dig your posts. While I don’t agree with everything you post, you have solid football takes, unlike alot of wannabee fans.
August 28th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
+1!
August 28th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
it’s a simple PUP rule its mandatory in football 101, apparently I flunked the spelling class, but such a dumb remark spelled correct can’t be counted as worthy of anything…
Huff24, forget him
August 28th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
MagnusBlitz…
Exactly my thought… you said it obviously more figurative, but that was my point too
August 28th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
If Bush is put on injured reserve, he is out for the year. If he starts the season on PUP, the Raiders have a three-week window before the seventh and 10th week to activate him to the 53-man roster.
At the end of the 10th week, Bush either has to be on the roster, injured reserve or be cut.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:02 pm
WILMAC - I do appreciate it and I feel that way about most people on here. Everyone on this blog comes from a different place and has a different frame of mind. I like to debate and to share my thoughts. Sometimes we’re wrong and sometimes we’re right but we’re generally here to have a good time talking about the Raiders. I certainly don’t expect everyone to agree with me and if everybody did, this would be one boring @$$ blog. Also, if I don’t know something I normally look it up before I post so that I am accurate on a stat or something that I am talking about. I question myself on facts sometimes and I would prefer to post the correct thing instead but everybody doesn’t see me do that obviously because its the computer. The one thing I try not to do is talk sh!t about other people on here. Occasionally I do but don’t we all? With football comes aggression and passion and we as fans share that feeling amongst ourselves and we can get a little bit competitive as well. Thats all.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:03 pm
5′8″ 155 lbs. pee wee football LMAO
August 28th, 2007 at 6:04 pm
Boy I hope this mean Griffith will be the season opener starter. Kiff was starting to scare me a bit with ZC.
God bless the guy as he has done a lot for the RAIDERS but if I have to sit and watch another one of our rbs get killed b/c of a ZC whiff?…
August 28th, 2007 at 6:08 pm
Thats easy for you to say that on the computer I bet.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
a 5′8″ tough guy on the computer.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
Huff24,
Although we haven’t seen Bush play yet, man I hope like hell this guy can come back 100%. He has more natural talent than any of our current backs. I don’t care if it was college. Rb is one position where you are almost certain of what you are getting.
Apparently Warren Sapp was pretty estatic about us getting him too!
Coach on Wheels,
Love ” THE SNEAKY PLAN” - Hopefully O’Neal can be ZC’s replacement though. Sorry everyone, I know he has done a lot but blocking for our rbs is not one of them.
Its just flat out amazing how terrible his blocking is.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:24 pm
Crock is probably going which is sad b/c he was a warrior for us and he was criminally underutilized when we had no backs in ‘03 and ‘04 (I think). I believe he could have been a 1k yard rusher in the right scheme. We have too much money invested in Griffith to cut him plus hes only 25 or 26. We could maybe sneak O’Neal through waivers but its probably not worth the risk. If crockett goes I hope he goes to a contender for a year or two.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:26 pm
Huff24…
Hahaha, yeah real easy….
i’m a former soldier as well, about same height 10 or so more pounds. I played a bit tail back, but my ankles couldn’t’ take it and I had some success at DB. People usually has a bit too much attitude sitting behind a screen. When they realize how you look in real life the scared shitless =)
August 28th, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Cut Fargas, simply put he has had his chance and it hasn’t panned out. Keep Griffin and O’Neil can go on the practice squad or whatever. Echimandu will produce around the goalline, if thats what their worried about (carrying 2-3 fullbacks). Thanx for the memories Crockett but we got it covered as far a runningbacks go, esp when Rhodes comes back. As far as Bush goes, I gotta belive that when Kiffin drafted him he knew this might happen, so I don’t think he will be cut, he’s a long term project.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Terrapin - I didn’t follow Bush in college but I had heard about him. My concern about him as a full time back is his size. I worry about his durability. I’ll have to check YouTube for any footage on him.
La Milicia Negra - Exactly. Well said. I played WR, DB and KR/PR. I ran track one year as well and ran the 100, 200, relay and long jump but I started having problems with my ankle from the jumping and it started getting weaker so I can relate. When one body part goes, everything else follows with it. I eventually stopped doing the long jump and my ankle gained its strength back. There was too much talent to keep up with in that department anyways.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:37 pm
Fargas is Alvis Whitted as a RB. Really fast and unproductive. Enough said.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Bush is comparable to Brandon Jacobs on the NY Giants. He was a freak @ Louisville. He had 3 TD’s in the first half before his leg was snapped. And those weren’t 1/2 yardline TD’s either they were straight up 30 yard sprints to the goalline after breaking tackles. He would have been a top ten pick if not for the injury. The guy is definatly worth being patient over.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
HUff24, “Fargas is Alvis Whitted as a RB” lol hilarious! And true! Cut him. He hasn’t distinguished himself. He’s not a power back. He hasn’t broken any long runs - so he’s not a speed back. He can’t block. He’s nothing special as a receiver. Cut him.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:48 pm
http://youtube.com/watch?v=4-1vkSVf9y4
Great video on Michael Bush. They mention that he was a QB in High School. They said he was 250 lbs and he looked like Daunte Culpepper. Funny. The guy does look extremely impressive with his size and speed and it will be amazing to see the size of our backfield with Culpepper/JR and Bush. Unbelievable athleticism. Now I see the light. When I think of his size, I think Bettis but he’s tall and lean.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:51 pm
why are we talking about OUR playing days? I missed that post…
August 28th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
http://youtube.com/watch?v=6fKgUP14Jnw
Michael Bush injury that ended his season. Worst part is, the guy tackling him grabs his leg and pushes it aside. Then a bunch of people dog pile him.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:54 pm
Nation,
I remain mystified why Crockett is referred to a FB. It is painfully evident watching him as a lead blocker that he a HB who does not really get how to block for another back. He actually seems to blovk as if he’s the runner, picking a hole and bypassing one defender to get to the second level — I watched that too many times in Friday night’s game. His value, I think, should he remain on the roster, is in his value as a short-yardage runner. That’s the one thing that I wanted to see more in the exhibition games: short-yardage runs. Thought maybe we’d see what the other guys on the roster can do, ’cause we know Crockett is money.
I’ll miss him when he goes, and I’d bet it’ll be September 1 or after week four, as others have said. But I won’t feel sorry for him, because he will play somewhere this year — and that you can take straight to the bank.
Peace.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
By the way, Fargas is not going anywhere. He is actually a good change of pace back. After Jordan lulls opponents to sleep with his average speed, do you ever notice how suddenly Fargas (in the third quarter, for instance) can burst for 6 yards a pop. Then, once the D realizes the speed difference, they adjust. But, if Kiffin is shrewd, and we know he is, he will use Fargas’s burst a little more strategically and consistently - ie. pick up a key first dow nor two and keeping a drive alive during critical times when the opposing D is tiring. Just my opinion of what will happen when the final cutdown approaches.
August 28th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Michael Bush Highlights
Part I
http://youtube.com/watch?v=QhEFxYxTXrk
August 28th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Part II
http://youtube.com/watch?v=xhAY7F8Ly38
August 28th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
Well, I hope we have an alternative for Crockett in short yardage situations, cuz we all know how production he has been over the years. Who will play that role?
August 28th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
b-man - You got the change of pace part right about Fargas…but the good part? Jordan moves like a slowski sometimes but at least he has some vision and finds a hole instead of running towards the first thing he sees and being stopped for 1 yard everytime. Fargas isn’t patient so he gets to the line almost too quickly and the defensive lineman havent been moved yet and are waiting for him. I wouldn’t doubt that Kiffin keeps him however just because we need depth.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Bush will be on PUP, and then brought in if/when someone gets a serious injury - Fargas maybe…he is injury prone.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:02 pm
yeah, and the new line strategy requires patience. In fact, I think Jordan was a little quick in some of his decisions last game, believe it or not.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
I have a feeling that Crockett started the first 3 games so Kiffin could evaluate what he really has with him. Now that he has seen all he needs to see, Griffith will get the nod. I think Kiffin has found that Crockett is too one dimensional. He is a short yardage back and thats it. You can’t have a guy that is effective in one area ala Fargas. Too many guys playing small roles when they could be productive in all areas of the team. I think thats why O’Neill sticks.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
this new stratgey does give us the LT cutback potential in a way we never had before. I am so tired of seeing LT tdo it to us, it will be nice if we can start doing it to others, not that any of our backs are LTs caliber, just that the scheme really gives that cutback against the grain a good chance to suceed and break long ones.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
yeah, I think the old guys is gone….Kiffin likes the young coaches, as a recent interview stated, because they are hungry to prove themselves and nervous about failing, and this pushes them to suceed. I think the same logic is being applied to the player roster. Eevn though Crockett is a good player and good energy guy, this might mean he is gone.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:08 pm
BTW, I played in college on a very good team. Well, actually I never played, but the team was good. Including a soon to be Hall of Famer. I left after the first year, realizing my limits and my greater interest in school - something I knew I could move forward with. I was too slow…as a receiver, but had the size at 6′1″ and 215 lbs and the hands.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
OK, no more posts for me for a while….:-)
August 28th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
Just wanted to say that I absolutely refuse to keep a guy who calls himself T-Stew…….
August 28th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
who is T-Stew?
August 28th, 2007 at 7:19 pm
Here’s the SI official draft highlight real of Bush w/ good talking points
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/specials/draft/2007/video/?c=Player&p=86522
August 28th, 2007 at 7:22 pm
According to some guy who posted earlier, Tony Stewart calls himself that….
August 28th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
When it comes to ZC, Dandy Don is singing “turn out the lights, the party’s over”…
ZC filled a role at the one yard line but how often is that? As far a Fargas goes, he might as well join ZC. This year’s running back group will be Jordan, Rhodes, Ache, & Bush. They can keep Fargas around until week 5 then Rhodes returns and Fargus’ services are no longer needed. Hopefully by then, Bush will be healthy enough to show us his stuff. If Jordan falls back into his old tricks he’ll be relegated to the bench. There’s just too much potential at RB to tolerate mediocrity. The success of our Offense will be dependent upon a strong running game (ball control) followed by a lot of play action, screens and an every now and then bomb. IMO, DC will be Mr. bomber directing the rejuvenated Raider Offense. I truly believe we are in an excellent position to surprise a lot of teams out there who think the game with the Raiders will be a free pass. By the time they figure out what happened to them, it will be over.
IMO, Kiffin is a class act - a youngster much older than his years would indicate. He has an excellent chance, if he continues as he has shown so far, to be the coach of the year. and, let’s not forget the job Tom Cable is doing too.
Our only apparent weak link is The giant sea slug Janakowski. He needs to do whatever it takes to assure that EVERY KO goes into and through the end zone. He also needs more consistency in his FG’s. This should be the last opportunity given to Janakowski. He’s a #1 pick! Either he performs as a #1 this year or we should kick his a$$ to the curb.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
Terrapin - Good stuff. I bet Bobby Petrino is devising a secret plan to get Michael Bush from the Raiders and hoping to draft Brohm in next years draft so he can have his Louisville stars play for him in Atlanta.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
What’s wrong with T-Stew?
August 28th, 2007 at 7:32 pm
Petrino’s secret plan needs to be trading all of his 08′ draft choices for JR tomorrow!
August 28th, 2007 at 7:36 pm
It´s ridiculous.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
We could only hope for something like that to happen but I’m not too sure there were many teams interested in drafting JR. It seemed like the Raiders were the obvious choice because he fit the Raider mold but he didn’t necessarily fit other teams needs. Quinn got picked at #22 only because the Browns moved up to get him. What if the Raiders selected Quinn? What would have happened to JR? There seems to be a big crop of QB’s for next years draft and Atlanta may not have the #1 pick but they probably won’t be far from that number and they won’t have to pay #1 money to a QB. They will have to do so with JR and I’m not too sure they would want to do that.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
The thing about Bush that really impressed me is he averaged 5.8 yards per carry in college. Thats freakin’ huge! (I don’t care if its college, AP did not average that much (5.4), not saying Bush is better, Mashawn Lynch avg’d more at 6.6). I am only cautious in that he prob. was playing against relatively softer comp.
Fargas >> Man that guy kills me too. Absolutely no patience at all. No vision. Nothing. He just runs like his pants were on fire. He is even worse than LJ when it comes to balance. How many times have we seen Fargas get blown up? I bet D’s mouths water when they see him in the backfield. Thinking: “Here’s my chance to get on ESPN mom. Please give him the ball. Please!!”
I will say this about him though. Against SL I think he showed a little patience. I was surprised. Kiff and Co must have spoken to him.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:49 pm
I’m pretty sure JR would have gone to the Lions if we passed. Quinn fell because of the pounding that he took in the Sugar Bowl, and the fear that he might become another *gasp* Rick Mirer/Ron Paulus/insert bad Notre Dame QB here. I just wish we could turn this negative situation into a positive by getting somethin for fat boy.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
Man, there are some tough choices ahead for Kiff. The good news is that we seem to be deeper than the last few years on Offense. Fargas could be the odd guy out because of Eche’s emergence. You still need a backup that you think might be able to handle starting RB duties if LJ goes down which judging on the past is a distinct possibility. Crockett, Oneal, and Griffith are FB’s with good abilities but none are going to fill in for an injured Jordan. Eche can do that I believe. Bush isn’t ready. Besides Rhodes comes back and will ease the burden on Jordan.
Keep all 3 FB’s keep Esche and and Bush on IR.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:51 pm
JR will sign soon simply because he has no other choice. He’s losing money every day he doesn’t sign. His value goes down dramatically if he goes back into the draft and he knows it. I’d be surprised if AD hasn’t already drawn a line in the sand by saying this is our last & best offer, AND by the way, the offer reduces by $50,000. per day beginning tomorrow morning. Take it or leave it my friend. The choice is yours! Don’t be a dumbs**t. Take the money and let’s play some ball.
August 28th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
It almost seems as if Al Davis drafted Jamarcus Russell to use him as a scapegoat and to prove a point. Davis loves to make a difference and be the first at everything. I wouldn’t be surprised if Davis drafted JR to use him as an example and to change the way drafted players get paid. Nobody has had the guts to do something like this because they drooled all over their draft picks and did whatever the player wanted. Now Davis is doing whatever the owner wants and since he was able to get McCown and Culpepper, he now holds the cards. Davis has hired 3 of the youngest Head Coaches in NFL history in Madden, Gruden and Kiffin. He has hired the first Hispanic and Black Head Coaches in Flores and Shell. He has hired the first woman in Am Trask at her position. He was big part in the AFL-NFL merger. He just might end up being the first person to hold his ground against the 1st pick in the draft. JR might have been doomed the minute his name was called as Davis never had any intention in signing him. Now that I’ve said that, JR will probably sign tonight or tomorrow and completely prove me wrong.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
Someone please enlighten me. What is the average time a player stays on PUP?
August 28th, 2007 at 8:11 pm
If the #1 draft pick each year gets X % more than the prior year’s #1 pick, where does that leave next year’s #1 pick - especially if JR gets nothing - zip - nada? 104% of nothing is NOTHING. An interesting conundrum. JR holds no cards while AD owns the deck. JR will sign because he really has no other reasonable options. It’s about time his agent figures it out too. It’s always better to get X % of something rather than !00% of nothing.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:19 pm
JB, I agree. That is a given, but AD has been holding the deck since Culpepper signed and started producing. There has to be some other aspect that we the fans arent privy to, I just don’t get it because his value is diminishing by the day, and now he won’t even play in one preseason game if he signed ten minutes ago. I’m in, just confused.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:19 pm
Everyone must be thankful for Art Shell. I’m tellin’ you, Shell was a blessing in disguise.
It was Shell who gave us all these draft picks. In effect, giving a team that already had good talent the opportunity to be dominant for years. Yes, we had talent last year. Good talent that sorely underperformed. My God, now look what Shell has given us! - 11 draft picks
It was Shell who finally woke Al Davis up. He is focused now. Like he was in the old days. Even Jerry M writes its odd to see Al Davis at so many practices. Al Davis saw the light to higher young talent to execute on these draft picks.
Our return to dominance is fast approaching! These are exciting times!
P.S. This is a huge blessing becuase I don’t think we are just looking at a 2 year or so window like most teams. We have core pieces in place where we can be as dominant as the Pattsies are IMO.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
(I think its amazing that Cam Cameron went to the Dolphins and started releasing the most talented players in that offense and added an old out of date QB in Trent Green. He released the TE McMichael, QB Culpepper and now Chambers is on the block? Smart.)
Profootballtalk.com
PASS-CATCHERS AVAILABLE FOR PEANUTS
Adam Schefter of NFL Network reports that a trio of Florida receivers are available to any interested takers. Specifically Reggie Williams of the Jaguars, Michael Clayton of the Bucs, and Chris Chambers of the Dolphins are on the block. But Schefter says that no serious talks have occurred regarding any of the three, which means that all three of them are in danger of being released on or before Saturday. Chambers, a second-round pick in 2001, has been the best of the three. Clayton and Williams were first-round picks in 2004. Williams was the No. 9 overall pick; Clayton was No. 15.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
It just kills me that we would have drafted Leinart last year and Calvin Johnson this year. Darius became available this year and he could have been our starting Strong Safety. The SS is easier to replace than the QB and WR. If we would have done this, we wouldn’t even be talking about JR. Leinart has looked great in pre-season and is progressing as expected while Calvin is getting a feel for the game but the talent between those 2 is out of this world. I should just fix my Madden roster so I can play as if that really happened. I can dream can’t I?
August 28th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Clayton might be a good pick up, I can’t believe that kid is allready available. The same guy from Olklahoma who took off his rookie year and then had a down year with Bruce Gradkowski as his QB? Give em T-Stew and Fargas, get it done Al.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:30 pm
WILMAC
Perhaps the problem is not JR but rather his inexperienced agents. It’s looking more like they are the “dagger in the ass of progress” and quite possibly they are just incompetent. JR should just sign and then sue his agent for malpractice to make up the difference in dollars he’s going to lose.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:30 pm
I’m just worried that the Chiefs and Chargers will add these guys. They aren’t that much of a threat but I like their crappy WR cores. If their WR’s suck, then we can focus on stopping their running games.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
If JR’s agents are ignorant and JR has stuck with them this long, then JR is that ignorant. I thought JR was good at calling audibles? Make that needed change at the line JR. Huddle up with your agents and call a better play. WHERES THE LEADERSHIP SKILLS? If the guy cannot produce off the field, how the hell is he supposed to produce on the field?
August 28th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Huff24
Knowing football doesn’t mean you know anything about business & finance. Don’t jocks usually skip those courses in college? JR may be great, and I hope he is, at recognizing defenses but he probably doesn’t comprehend all the nuances of the negotiation - that what his agent is for. But again, that assumes his agent really understands.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:45 pm
I’m just playin around. JR needs to talk to Culpepper and get some advice on how contracts are supposed to be done but I’m sure Culpepper is hoping JR doesn’t sign so Culpepper can cash in big with the Raiders. Don’t want to help the competition I suppose.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
The Raiders are a rebuilding team coming off a 2-14 season. Wasting a roster spot on a 34-year-old fullback would be criminally incompetent.
Who will replace Crockett as our goal line back?
That’s funny. I’m sure somebody can be found to replace those ZERO touchdowns he gained last year, or the grand total of THREE over the last three seasons.
He played a role in 2003, but that was…….well, 2003. This is 2007. He’s done, worthless. It’s a pity he took reps from the other guys this preseason.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:51 pm
LA Raider
Your synopsis of the ZC question is brutally accurate. As far as a goal line back, how do you spell BUSH? I think the answer to your question is clear.
August 28th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Its not a pity that we allowed Crockett to get beat down and not our starters in pre-season. Crockett has been misused the last 3 years no doubt. I think we could have had alot more TD’s but thats not the case and I would agree that Crockett’s time is up. Besides, Kiffin doesn’t want to keep any players older than himself and since Crockett is past his prime, it doesn’t hurt much to let the guy go. Thanks Crockett for your services but you can finally have a long awaited vacation.
I honestly think Bush should be activated and be used as our goal line and short yardage back this year until we make him our full time starter next year. Give him some reps and allow him to regain some strength and get some playing experience in the NFL.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:11 pm
Isn’t it possible that after seeing Jamarcus Russell close up in practice, that the Raiders decidd he wasn’t that good?
August 28th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
Never thought of that. Hmmmmm. Maybe Kiffin had to tell JR, “How many times do I have to tell you to put that cheeseburger down and get your @$$ over here? You’re walking? Run damnit.” Hah.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:24 pm
Kirk
Anything is possible but your scenario is not probable. If it were, they certainly wouldn’t have offered him $30-$31 million. I really don’t think the dollar amount is the issue. It’s the terms & conditions surrounding how the bonus is structured. The Raiders want the option to get guaranteed money back if he holds out in the future or does something stupid like Michael Vick and ends up in jail. I don’t know all the specifics of the payback issue but obviously AD does. The fact of the matter is that AD is definitely in the driver’s seat with regards to the JR negotiation. As someone noted earlier in this blog, as soon as the trade for McCown was made and DC was signed, JR’s appearance for this year became a back burner issue. JR will sign. It’s just a matter of when AD really wants him to. The longer AD waits, the stronger his position becomes.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:26 pm
I agreed to use Bush SPARINGLY. Get him some reps, experience, and knowledge of playing the game. Do all of you really believe teams gonna pick up CUTS from a 2-14 team? LOL
August 28th, 2007 at 9:30 pm
Raiders Fanatic
Someone paid how many millions for Langston Walker? Go figure. Point made.LOL
August 28th, 2007 at 9:37 pm
I bet if we’d cut Porter nobody pick him up and Raiders re-sign him to the vet minimum. Jesus, I hate that kid.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
You could make a case that Langston Walker was a Free Agent and not a cut. Walker didn’t want to come back to the Raiders and went shopping. There just so happened to be buyers. The Bills offensive line isn’t playing all that bad either. Walker also probably would have excelled in Tom Cable’s scheme just as everyone else has. He couldn’t have been any worse than Cornell Green but he probably would have asked for more money no doubt. Especially with the screwed up market we have.
I would really rather give JR’s money to Burgess and Asomugha. We need those guys.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:42 pm
Porter? Give me a break. Give Porter this year. If he doesn’t get it done this year, then I would understand but dont judge too quickly. Most of the team had a bad attitude with the Shell regime outside of Porter. The likes of McCown and other free agents didn’t want to sign with the team after seeing the coaching staff and the gameplan they were laying out. Porter didn’t agree with what was going on and he was obviously right as our offense was the main reason we went 2-14. Give him the benefit of the doubt. He will surprise you. Also, hate is such a strong word.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
He, Porter, sure hasn’t set the world afire so far this year. He better start bustin’ his a$$ soon or his value in FA will be squat. He needs to really understand that if it hits your hands, you must catch & hold on to it no matter what. I don’t see him as the #1 receiver. Actually, I see Zach Miller as #1, followed by Curry, Madsen, Porter, Higgins & Williams in that order.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
Mr Davis if you can’t afford the 1st pick, you should have traded it, not mislead your Coach, and bring further ridicule to the franchise.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:44 pm
I believe it’s bad PR to let Russell go back to the draft or trade him. Raiders are stuck with Russell and his potential big K so the team gotta make ways to cut corners to re-sign the defensive vets. That’s how I see it. Raiders might have to let Namdi go cause 10mm+ plus for a CB is too much to absord along with Russell K. Burgess K might be managble cause he’s recoving from an injury and no team would rsik giving him million? for a hernia disc surgery issue player.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Plus, I really don’t believe Namdi is worth the money like 10mm+ per for a player of his position. Raiders should make plans of playing without him, he’s really nothing special, he didn’t win a Heisman or something.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:51 pm
Madsen is gonna have a great year IMO. The kid got GAME! I think he’s gonna make the BIG PLAYS for the Raiders this year and help us WIN!
August 28th, 2007 at 9:53 pm
Makes you wonder whether Mike Lombardi could have gotten JR signed if he was still here. Maybe letting go of Lombardi was the single worst move we made within the administration department. Supposedly, Lombardi was a big helping hand while Bruce Allen was here as well. I think we lost a big time negotiator.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
He didn’t win a Heisman? Yeah…all those Heisman players we’ve had have paid huge dividends for us. Where the hell do you come up with this stuff? Asomugha has the ability to shut down his side of the field taking away the #1 WR from the opposing team. He’s big as a corner and can match well against the big WR’s that most corners can’t handle. He also had 8 interceptions so he contributed to getting turnovers which is something we lacked with the rest of our secondary. Without Asomugha, we are mediocre at best but oh no…we don’t need him. That is the stupidest thing I have ever heard. We are not a cover 2 defense where you can just plug people in there. WE PLAY MAN TO MAN. Our corners are extremely important in our system. Unbelieveable.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
The worst part is…you make Madsen sound more important than Asomugha. Wow. I think its bed time.
August 28th, 2007 at 9:59 pm
I DOUBT any front office guy woulda made an difference. Russell agents had it laid out from all reports and Raiders drafted him regardless. My SNEAKY plan is have him hold out till the last few games of the season. He either go back to the draft or sign for a lower amount when he gets drafted much lower. Raiders keep all 3 QBs in tact without disruption.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:02 pm
Worst come to worst place Huff at Namdi position. He’s big enough to player the corner. Raiders have alot of options. Namdi ain’t Woodson in his prime.. that’s where I’m getting at now.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:03 pm
Madsen shoe string catches show glimpse of what to come. The kid got GAME!
August 28th, 2007 at 10:08 pm
Woodson NEVER accomplished what Asomugha did last year. Woodson would have mental lapses and allow the occasional big play. He couldn’t shut down big time players like Moss in his prime. Moss PUNKED Woodson. Woodson was good but not great. When he left for Green Bay, he finally had his best season with 8 interceptions and played the way we always hoped he would. I was a big time Woodson fan but you cannot sit here and say that he’s done better than Asomugha. Woodson got Pro Bowls mainly off hype and name recognition as he was a big time player at Michigan. I think his recent success had something to do with getting closer to his home in the frozen tundra.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:08 pm
Nnamdi had a good year last year. It was his first good year. Let’s see how he does this year before we anoint him the second coming. I agree that $10M is a little on the high side for a guy who has had but 1 good year. Burgess is another issue. He’s proven his value and needs to be rewarded financially. The strong pass rush no doubt contributed positively to Nnamdi’s last year’s results.
The Raiders have a history of developing excellent cornerbacks. Names like Brown, Hayes, Haynes, James, Woodson, et al. come to mind. Players come and go and will continue to do so. The Raiders also have a successful history of being able to jockey the salary cap and to pay key players well when they choose to do so. I have no doubt that skill will continue.
My bigger concern for next year is when Rob Ryan leaves to accept a head coaches position. The question at hand will then be will we see a father (Monte Kiffin) & son (Lane Kiffin) team in charge of the Raiders? Interesting thought?
August 28th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
I believe Don Martindale (Linebackers coach) will take over the Defense. I think it would be difficult for Kiffin to work with his father under such conditions and I don’t think we’re built for a brand new scheme as our scheme is extremely successful. I do like Monte Kiffin alot but don’t like changing schemes when things are working. If it ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it. Of course its timing as well. Gruden will probably get fired next year and Monte could be lookin. I’m sure Lane wouldn’t say no to his dad and it would just be timing that Rob Ryan would get a Head Coaching job. Wouldn’t that be f*ked up to see Norv get fired after his dismal season and Rob Ryan step in? He better go to the Jags or the Giants or something like that.
Remember Terry McDaniel #36? I loved that guy. I don’t think the Raiders would pay Asomugha 10+mil. I see him at 6-7+mil.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:39 pm
Huff 24,
Most of the time I agree with your comments, but anointing Asomugha so fast and saying his last year was more successful than any Woodson ever had is a bit much.
Woodson has played in more meaningful games, and came highly touted from college so teams had him on their radar from the get go. Asomugha? Well half the league finally figured out how to pronounce his name anyway. This year will be very telling for him. I believe last year a lot of team underrated him, and didn’t really game plan enough for him, but this year they will. Woodson had some big plays for the Raiders too, but again expectations were so high. Remember the game winning hit he put on Brady forcing the fumble in the snow? Oh, wait technically that didn’t count. If it did he is still w/ the Raiders though. This is a players league. No matter what gets said off the field fans end up liking a player because of how he plays, and I did see Woodson get burned but I also seen him play with a lot of passion and fire almost all the time. He was a Raider.
We gotta do all we can to keep Ryan. I think Rex will get a head coaching position before Rob, because he has more publicity in running a top rated D with a team that has won and been in the limelight a little more. The Raiders should keep Ryan just for his cool, rebellios long flowing hair. Has there ever been a guy that looked more like he belonged on the Raiders?
August 28th, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Long rebellious flowing hair works for Rob Ryan. Gallery is another story. His just looks ridiculous. Just my observation. It must be late if we have now digressed to the point of focusing on hair styles. LOL Must be time to sign off.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:51 pm
EastCoastRaider - My nickname on here used to be Wo0dSoN24. I guess I have just become bitter over how things turned out with him. His first 4 years were great after the 2nd half of his first game against the Chiefs when Andre Rison owned him in the 1st and Woodson shut him down in the 2nd. I became an instant fan. His last 4 years were plagued but injuries and what I felt was laziness. He seemed to have a bad attitude and I think we offered him a big contract but he wouldn’t agree so we place the franchise tag on him 2 years in a row. It seemed like he didn’t want to be here and I think he played unhappy. Maybe its just been a long enough time that I have forgotten just how good he was but I guess you can sometimes become too much of a fan of a player and it leaves a bad taste in your mouth when they leave. It also pissed me off that Woodson was asking for so much money when he was hardly on the field due to the Postons (Agents) demands. I thought Woodson was screwing us.
I guess you’re right when it comes to me anointing Asomugha so great so fast but I’m just excited about him and I like his attitude. It seems like he has a great work ethic and he has honed his skills. I should give him another year to see how he does. You’re right.
I think I will cry the day Rob Ryan leaves. Don’t be so quick to say that Rex Ryan will get a Head Coaching job before Rob because Rex took over a defense that was already dominant since the year 2000. The Ravens D was dominant under Marvin Lewis, Mike Nolan and now Rex Ryan whereas Rob Ryan started from the ground up and built a great defense on his own. In fact, Rob Ryan tore apart our defense and made it worse with his 3-4 and then turned around and fixed it the following year only to go #3 Defense a year after that. Now that is skill and I think it will be noticed.
August 28th, 2007 at 11:19 pm
if we drafted leinart last year we wouldnt be high enough to draft calvin johnson
August 28th, 2007 at 11:32 pm
If frogs had wings they wouldn’t bump their ass. Woulda, coulda, shoulda, etc. We didn’t so we can’t. If arguments for the most part are a waste of time. Play the cards you have in your hand. You stand a better chance of winning if you do. It must be late.
August 28th, 2007 at 11:54 pm
The HC jobs usually goes to the offense coords or offense minded coaches. Rob Ryan ain’t gonna sniff a HC anywhere else IMO. That’s the way it is in the NFL with successful winning franchise.
August 28th, 2007 at 11:57 pm
Get rid of Porter and give his money to Namdi. Plus and minus!
August 28th, 2007 at 11:59 pm
I wonder what’s the next excuse for Porter having a low production season. Maybe he can blame the mascot this time. LOL
August 29th, 2007 at 6:09 am
KK
While I was one who said trade the first pick myself…. I think that AD thought that Russell’s agents were going to be reasonable. There first offer if I am hearing things right was 35+ million all up front with no good way to get any of it back. CJ in comparison got someting like 27+ million with none of it put in a way that the Lions could not recoup it if CJ decided he did not want to play anymore or had a dogfighting habit etc… Another point is after the draft depneding on who you believe the Raiders either got no offers (official Raiders line) to trade out of the first pick or one offer with Cleveland (according to someone with ties to Cleveland) to trade down to number 3 so it was not like they had much of a choice to trade out of the first pick.
The bottom line is for the last few years the overall first pick is the boobie prize. Was Alex Smith really worth all the money they paid him? How bout what happened with Bush and the fact Houston did not choose him because if number 1 he would have broke their bank. No this with Russell look at this mess. The NFL not AD is at fault here for not getting this under control. The league is being run by agents instead of owners and players because the only people that could possibly want this are the agents and of course about 32 graduating college students each year.
August 29th, 2007 at 6:50 am
As much as I love Crockett, I would cut him. Griffith and Oneil have too much upside to
let either of them go. And even though Zack can also play tailback, he HAS lost a
couple of steps, and Fargas’s speed is more suited for Kiffens offense. Plus if you let
Fargas go, there will only be ONE rb on the roster with any speed (Echemandu). I am
not good with that. Eases the job for opposing DEF . (Assuming Bush won’t be playing
this year.)
August 29th, 2007 at 7:23 am
Raiders Fanatic Says: I’m a moron
August 28th, 2007 at 11:54 pm
The HC jobs usually goes to the offense coords or offense minded coaches. Rob Ryan ain’t gonna sniff a HC anywhere else IMO. That’s the way it is in the NFL with successful winning franchise.
do you think before you shoot your mouth off???? Ever hear of these guys??? defensive coaches one and all…
Bill Belichick…Bill Cowher…Tony Dungy…John Fox…Jeff Fisher….Marvin Lewis…Lovie Smith….Marty Schottenheimer….
August 29th, 2007 at 7:26 am
Is this a fantasy football blog ???? Most of you idiots talk like you have some kind of say in the operation of the Raiders. Thank GOD you idiots don’t. Last year would look good.
August 29th, 2007 at 7:30 am
Excellent point about Crockett’s “bypassing” of defenders as a lead blocker, by RIP Birdwell!!! That is why Crockett will get cut. He’s been a good Raider, and his time here has been much appreciated.
Someone made reference to WR Michael Clayton, Buccaneers, on the trading block, being from Oklahoma. Wrong Clayton. Mark Clayton from OU plays for Baltimore. Michael Clayton is the stud from LSU, a few years back, who’s bad attitude, and David Boston like growth has soured Jon Gruden.
August 29th, 2007 at 8:15 am
I know we are talking about RB but I have a question of the 8 WR we have left on the team who would you cut and why? What do you think of Carlos Francis since we drafted him I don’t ever recall him ever making a play I seen and remember Alvin Whitted doing a little something.
August 29th, 2007 at 8:36 am
Crockett has been the most under used player on the Raiders since his arrival. Every time he gets an oportunity he comes through. He never complains just shows up every day ready to go to work. Crock is a Raider and I hope he remains that way for a while. He still has plenty of gas in the tank. I like the idea of keeping 3 FB’s. Crock & Griff have proven they can handle playing HB if needed and O’neal is like a compact offspring of Crockett. Fargas in my opinion is the odd man out in the back field, always wanted to see him break through, but to me seems to lack vision and to easily goes down if the grass isn’t cut short enough.
August 29th, 2007 at 8:41 am
Thanks Coach Sean. What I’m hoping for with Crockett is that he sticks through week four, and we work out a trade to send him somewhere. This staff did such a tremendous job in the draft last year, even a sixth or seventh round pick would be preferable to simply cutting him. I’d hope he could go to a team that had a real shot at a deep playoff run, though, as I think we owe him that.
Silver N Black Blood, I think the 8 WRs are a special teams thing. My guess is that we only keep five, maybe signing one of the younger guys to the practice squad in case of injury. With Madsen’s ability, he’s like a sixth WR. My list would be JP, Curry, Williams, Taylor and Higgins.
Peace
August 29th, 2007 at 9:01 am
Francis has been hampered by injuries, and his best shot to make the team was as a return man which is now occupied by Higgins & Carr. Whitted, has become expandable with the signing of Travis Taylor and didn’t help his chances with his play at SF. Though not a fan favorite, he has a good work ethic and the fact he has speed(Mr. Davis) and is a vet his chances improve. McFoy is a coach favorite in practice and the fact he’s from USC gives him an edge in coach K’s heart.
WR 1 J. Porter
WR 2 R. Curry
WR 3 T. Taylor
WR 4 M. Williams
WR 5 J. Higgins
WR. 6 A. Whitted
WR. 7 C. McFoy
August 29th, 2007 at 9:28 am
Raider Fanatic - with all due respect……Who gives a flying duck about bad PR!!! We are not at all stuck with jamoney russell. He hasn’t played a single down in the NFL so What gives him the right to hold our franchise hostage with outragous Pay demands. The boy should be greatful to even be selected in the NFL and he’s gonna commit career suicide. I hope to never see this punk in a raider uniform he makes me Sick. Stick to your Guns AL. someone has to put an end to this madness….These damn agents are gonna ruin the game.
August 29th, 2007 at 9:52 am
Huff24,
Yeah, I don’t want to see Ryan go either. It’s easy to say well we have the D and we just won’t change it and it will be as good w/ him gone, but it almost never works like that. I’m not sure he will get a lot of HC offers because how much does he really know about Offense? They just need to pay him and lock him in now and we will keep him.
August 29th, 2007 at 9:59 am
by sometime last year it became apparent that Fargas is just not a big-leaguer. he had his chances. time to say sayonara. and if Crockett goes, godspeed to the man, he has been a a fine Raider. some good posts on this one, except for ‘anti-huff’ - don’t know what kind of insects are crawling around in his pajamas. interesting days ahead.
August 29th, 2007 at 10:17 am
Time for a new topic Jerry. Prime the pump & bail us out.
August 29th, 2007 at 10:17 am
Hope Ryan stays and learn the offensive side of Football from Knapp, Kiffin and Cable. When Dungy or Billichick stops they hire our boy wonder. With the poster boy gone Ryan is ready for HC, then he is more educated than he was after the shell firing, and he’ll stay with us in ten years time! thats my Hope =)
August 29th, 2007 at 10:23 am
I’m watching a pre-season game on the NFL network between the Bills & the Titans. I’m sure it’s a reply but it’s still better than baseball. FYI Langston Walker still stinks as a blocker. He looks more like a turnstyle and he got 26 Million - Give me a break! He looks worse than he did last year.
Vince Young on the other hand looks very strong. Just goes to prove that to survive nowadays, you need a large big dude with a strong arm. Remind you of anyone?
August 29th, 2007 at 10:32 am
Yes JB It Does Remind me Of a Guy…. we signed ( pretty Cheap ) Duante Culpepper !
August 29th, 2007 at 10:38 am
I agree. DC will help us regain our past success. JR will sign sooner or later but right now, DC is our immediate future and that’s not all that bad. Miami will dread the day they passed on DC in favor of Trent Green.
August 29th, 2007 at 10:41 am
Sorry guys came in late to the office today, but in regards to placing O’neal on waivers and then signing him to the practice squad… it would never happen the Giants have lost 2 of their starting FB’s this preseason to injury, they would take him in a second
August 29th, 2007 at 10:42 am
wait a minute, there is another guy, what’s his name….
August 29th, 2007 at 10:50 am
Silver and Black Blood…regarding the WR’s. Posted this the other day, and Birdwell posted a list that matches mine:
1. Jerry Porter - definitely time to put up the numbers as he will be the focus of the offense. Has shown flashes of greatness, but has a tendancy to disappear in the clutch. This year we find out if that’s him or the coaching calls of the past. The motivation of being a contract year should prompt him to put out his best. Overall the most talented WR we have.
2. Ronald Curry - clutch, great hands good speed. Pure outstanding athleticism makes him good. A converted college QB, who is capable of it all. Arguably as good as Porter, but injuries are certainly a concern. Has a knack for finding the softspots in the zone on 3rd downs especially.
3. Travis Taylor - a toss up here between him and Mike Williams. But an ex 1st round prospect who like many Florida WR’s never turned into the stud at the next level. Still a reliable WR, well rounded - decent speed, good hands, runs routes well, isn’t afraid to go across the middle, but not an all star.
4. Mike Williams - potential galore. Slow for a WR. Lumbers more than he does run. Good hands and a hell of a threat in the redzone, due to his size. Weight IS and has been an issue, as it lends to his speed and ability to create separation. If he can’t turn into something close to what he was supposed to be with Kiffin, then he probably never will. Consistency is an issue.
5. Johnnie Lee Higgins - has shown big play ability and doubles as a returner. Very fast with decent hands. Rookie who obviously needs to develop into an NFL-caliber receiver, meaning be consistent, and learn the system. A good prospect who’s already earned a spot on the 53-man roster.
6. Alvis Whitted - average NFL WR. Great speed and great work ethic. can play as a 4th WR in a pinch, but nothing more. Solid special teams player on coverage, and capable of returning too. Versatility, work ethic might keep him around, although with John Madsen around, there really isn’t a need as a wideout.
7. Chris McFoy - this year’s Will Buchanon. Practice standout who’s likely earned a spot on the practice squad.
8. Carlos Francis - cursed with weak hamstrings. Super fast, return ability, good hands. Unfortunately just hasn’t had the chance to make a mark, and won’t get it with us. Been around too long for the practice squad, so expect him to go.
August 29th, 2007 at 10:58 am
I think Crockett’s out.
I would guess that Kiffin is having a harder time deciding between Fargas and Echemandu (sp?). I’m sure he, like every other coach, likes Fargas’ toughness and speed - but the guy has no vision as a runner…period. Ech isn’t a rookie, he’s been around, and certainly shown flashes, but let’s be real. He’s not the caliber of a Jordan or Rhodes - he’s a 3rd RB, a guy who may flourish, but really, you just want him to be able to step in and be adequate now and then.
To me the choice is easy - I’ve seen enough of “Jr. Huggy”, and although I used to have high hopes, he’s had some chances, and doesn’t impress.
Jordan and Rhodes will be the main course, with the possiblity of a Michael Bush cameo later this year, so it may not matter.
August 29th, 2007 at 11:26 am
I said it before and I’ll say it again…Fargas is Alvis Whitted as a RB. Period.
I think the Buccaneers would have some interest in Crockett. Gruden used Crockett to perfection when he was here and Alstott retired so I’m sure they have some room at FB. Crockett has been sitting alot the last 3 years and even though he is 34, his legs and body are fresh. Maybe the East Coast Raiders take a shot at aquiring him for a 6th round pick or something?
August 29th, 2007 at 11:45 am
Coach Sean - I like the WR analysis, but in the name of blogging tradition I have a few changes based on my own opinions.
1. Curry - This guy will have a breakout year very similar to 2005, except he won’t get hurt (all Raider fans knock on wood). He is athletic, strong, and just gets open at the most opportune times. I think he is more consistent than Porter and Culpepper (QB1) will learn to lean on him when the team really needs a completion.
2. Porter - He might not be the #1 he thinks he is, but a fabulous #2. Does not have the sure hands and the consistency to be the go to guy, but his athletic skills still make him a valuable WR and he will get his share of balls. Porter is definitely not TRASH.
3 - 5. Williams/Higgins/Taylor - I’m sure Kiffin is hoping either Williams or Higgins makes a dramatic leap and overtakes Taylor for the WR3 at some point in the season. Taylor is positively average and that was proven when WR-less Minnesota let him go. At least Williams (with his size) or Higgins (with his speed) gives us a matchup advantage at WR3. Hopefully one of them can become more consistent and jump over Taylor.
6. Whitted - Seems to have a free pass on the roster from Al. An adequate backup WR only becasue he plays solid special teams. I wouldn’t keep him, but he always seems to be there Week 1.
I can’t see keeping more than 6…but there are always surprises on cut day.
August 29th, 2007 at 11:46 am
Alstott went on IR not retired Huff24 but both the Giants and Bucs have FB needs
August 29th, 2007 at 12:07 pm
I don’t know the details of Calvin Johnsons contract, or what if any trade opportunities Mr Davis had prior to the draft, or what if any conversations he had with Metz. But any damned fool fantasy league geek could have told you the parameters of a No1 pick before the draft.
I’m feel certain that when Coach Kiffin took this job the prospect of working with the no1 draft pick, JaMarcus Russell was a big factor in his decision to come here.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:25 pm
KoolKell
Get real, Kiffin didn’t accept the position because JR was coming. JR is really an unknown commodity at the NFL level of play. He is most likely a great prospect to succeed but there are no guarantees. Kiffin took this job because he wanted to be a head coach without having to pay Asst. coaching dues first. This was a no-brainer for him. There was nothing but upside. The team couldn’t be much worse.
AD knew and still does know exactly what he’s doing. He owns JR’s butt whether he knows it or not. JR doesn’t really have any other realistic options that will give him the cash now on the table and notoriety of being at the helm of the Raiders for the next decade. JR’s coming here was just the icing on the cake for Kiffin.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
I agree with one thing, Mr Davis owns JR’s butt right now. And I’m so grateful DC has been such a positive acquistion so far. But…he hasn’t made it through 4 regular season games yet, probably won’t be here next year, and JR’s development has already been stunted, putting the future another year off. And you can’t tell me the prospect of coaching JR wasn’t part of Kiffins decision
August 29th, 2007 at 12:38 pm
JR will make more money in jersey sales overrides than most of us will earn in a lifetime. It’s time for JR to unload his inexperienced agent and get on with life. At some point in time, one has to cut their losses and take the best offer available. JR is at that point right now. Its, the offer, is NEVER going to get better than it is today. A I said earlier, AD owns JR’s A$$.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:39 pm
Fool Kell is one of those idiots that eats everything up with a spoon the media morons say. He doesn’t have anything to say unless he heard it somewhere else first. Besides JB… the Fool Kell is pissed at Al Davis because the Russell jersey he already bought is worthless.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
“And you can’t tell me the prospect of coaching JR wasn’t part of Kiffins decision”.
Like I said, the icing on the cake. Actually it’s a blessing of sorts that it is working out this way. Kiffin has been able to give 100% of his attention to the team and not any one individual. Its allowed him to get the right asst. coaches in-place - to get his game plan for bringing the Raiders back to greatness, without unneeded distraction. This will pay big dividends going forward. Kiffin can spend more time with JR next year.
And, I agree that getting DC saved our butts this year and will have far reaching positive impacts going forward.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
JR etal make more money that we ever will in a lifetime sure. But that’s the wages for people with those kinds of skills. As the youngsters say “Don’t Hate the Playa, Hate the Game”
Metz and his partners have been in business for 23 years. People can hate the messenger (ESPN) all they want, but, that don’t change the message. Al can’t or won’t put the necessary monies into escrow to fund the deal whether it be 27 mill, 30 mill, 35 mill, clauses aside on which monies can be recaptured, all the guarantees, recoverable or unrecoverable have to be funded. Al aint got the cash.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:50 pm
some idiot said……And you can’t tell me the prospect of coaching JR wasn’t part of Kiffins decision.
News Flash….Kiffin was hired long before Russell was drafted…Kiffin was also key in the hiring of Mark Jackson as an administration assistant to handle player and contracts, also long before the draft. So Kiffin is aware of what transpired before and after the drafting of Russell.
August 29th, 2007 at 12:51 pm
Hang on to that jersey, it will cost more next year. Think of it as getting, under any circumstance, a real collector’s item. If JR doesn’t follow through, which is unthinkable, it will really be worth something. If he does show up for next year, the cost will no doubt be higher so you ended up getting a discount. Either way, you win! LOL
August 29th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
Oh yeah, I’m wearing it proudly. have a good one
August 29th, 2007 at 12:58 pm
another News Flash for Fool Kell…..5 television networks pay the NFL 3.1 billion dollars a year to televise the games. The Raiders (Al Davis) are broke???? get a clue!
August 29th, 2007 at 1:22 pm
Al has the cash necessary to pay JRuss. However, he’s not going to give $31 mil in option bonuses to a rookie.
JRuss has no choice but to sign the contract. He’ll sign once the season starts.
If JRuss goes back into the draft like the various people have wrote in these blogs, he’ll lost at least $10 mil, plus have a lot of interest he’ll be paying his agents for paying for his new home, Cadillac Escalade, and any other goodies he’s purchased.
August 29th, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Heard a rumor that JR ended the hold out and is signed. No tsure if this is true or not but heard it on satellite radio.
August 29th, 2007 at 1:33 pm
I think I have a woodie if that’s true
August 29th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
You guys hear Todd Mariuanovich got arrested again?…:)
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2996539
August 29th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
I hope that is true about JR, no news flash on ESPNews yet….I have a friend with Raiders season tix and Chargers season tix. When the Raiders were on there little tear leading up to the Super Bowl vs. the Fu$kinQueers a few of my fellow season tix holders and I would purchase as many extras as we could afford for the playoffs and resell them. It was a nice way to make extra $$$ and pay for my season tix for the next year.
Anyhoo, we decided to get season tix for the Chargeless, Donks, and Chefs so that we could travel together. Well my buddy is the only one who still has his Chargeless tix. He called me to list his tix for Da Bears on Ebay for him. He has four seats and needed me to sell two of them. I listed them and was blown away by the number of Ebay ads for that particular game. I know the Nation invades San Diego and has forever but now I understand why their are sooo many opposing fans in Jack Meoff stadium year in/ year out. What a bunch of sellouts….Guaranteed after a season like the one they just had you would never see the faithful from the Donks, Chefs or our beloved Raiders sellling out like that…..Charger U should be ashamed!!!!
August 29th, 2007 at 2:09 pm
New Mexico Raider,
Did you hear it on XM or Sirius?
August 29th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
Rumor monger!!! You got me all excited. It’s bull
August 29th, 2007 at 2:23 pm
XM but have not heard anything on any others sports outlet. So it may have been BS.
August 29th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
Black hole, I would’nt do that to the Nation.
August 29th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
I didn’t mean to place the blame on you NM. It was directed to whom ever said it on XM.
August 29th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
Yeah they got me all excited too. Sorry guy’s!
August 29th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
JRaider just saw that about Todd….my god what a waste…38 years old riding his skateboard and busted for meth
August 29th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
There goes my woodie
August 29th, 2007 at 3:01 pm
I hope he did sign,but on the subject of Oniel and Crockett. I think we keep both !
yes both. How many times has Jordan been injured and couldn’t play? How about each year.
August 29th, 2007 at 3:20 pm
Anyone that is an espn insider,
Can you enlighten me on the other 3 players covered in Clayton’s Camp Confidential?
http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp07/insider/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2968630&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnfl%2ftrainingcamp07%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumnist%3dclayton_john%26id%3d2968630
August 29th, 2007 at 3:48 pm
The only site I ever give credit to is PFT.com and this one for a rumor.
August 29th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
LOOOooongest BLogg ever!!1 =)
…and link btw
August 29th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
Rod Woodson….NFLN…ANALYZED THE RAIDERS….it comes back on later.
Woodson says at best 8-8 (but I think he was being cautious) …then he went on to say if th O is significantly better Raiders can do even better than 8-8
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
“Know what? With our defense, give us 17 points and I promise you a lot of those offenses are going to be playing from behind, and if we get their offense to throw the ball, game over. With our secondary, it’s game over.” - FABE WASHINGTON
August 29th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
Half on NFLN show today is about da’ RAIDERS
August 29th, 2007 at 4:34 pm
Zach Crockett was always good on fourth and short………except on the biggest fourth and short of his career……….in the snow………at Gillette.
August 29th, 2007 at 6:31 pm
The writing is on the wall.
The big Vick news is how much the Falco