Dysfunction perception and free agency
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Friday, February 1st, 2008 at 9:32 am in Oakland Raiders.
The belief that the Raiders organization is currently locked in a battle of wills between Al Davis and Lane Kiffin will give rise to the notion that this will hurt the team on Feb. 29, when the free agent signing period begins.
Who in their right mind would sign with the Raiders when there are 31 other franchises out there who don’t have as many soap operas in a decade as the Raiders do in one offseason?
Plenty of players, actually.
The Raiders were a mess a few years back when they went and signed Derrick Burgess and LaMont Jordan, two players for whom there was a competitive market.
Back in 2002, the Raiders traded coach Jon Gruden to Tampa Bay and there was speculation it would cripple them, for it was the charismatic Chucky who would draw the free agents like bees to a flower.
Wrong. John Parrella, Bill Romanowski and Rod Woodson eagerly put pen to paper and contributed to an AFC championship.
In the first instance, the Raiders were a losing team, in the second they were a winning team and it made little difference.
Everyone puts their best face on during free agency. An offensive player is told how the system will suit their needs. Defensive players get to meet Rob Ryan, whose contagious enthusiasm has won over his players despite four years of defense which has been slightly above average one year and downright bad for three others.
In many cases, there is a visit with Davis, long known as a players advocate who will regale and amaze recruits by pulling out stories of their past, knowing where they went to high school, their track and field exploits, and put it all into a historical context as to how the Raiders are ready to win again.
Randy Moss, after being acquired by trade, admitted he was reluctant to come aboard at first but was touched that the club had taken time to send a package of Raider gear to his family and then provided a police escort from the airport.
Still, those are all secondary factors. As Kiffin told reporters nearly a year ago at the owners meeting during his first full-on press session, it’s all about the Benjamins.
“It’s the truth. You do the research. What motivates them? Money. And winning. And let’s be honest — money is probably more important than winning to most of them,” Kiffin said. “So how do they get money? They get new contracts because they play well. So help them. You know? And then they’ll respond to you.”
You could argue that if two teams are battling for a free agent, the Raiders could lose out to an organization with a better reputation. But how many situations are truly equal? There are considerations such as compatability with the system and competition at the position that see to it that situations are never the same.
Agents aren’t about to try and talk their clients away from the Raiders if they’re offering top dollar. They’re about the Benjamins too, and it’s doubtful they’re going to delve into a lecture about the evils of the Raiders with a commission on the line.
The Raiders of late haven’t been all that active in free agency, anyway, a market place which can be a huge gamble. When Burgess and Jordan came aboard, they batted .500.
Last year, they talked with both tight end Daniel Graham and running back Travis Henry, took a pass, and then ended up with Zach Miller in the draft and the resurrection of Justin Fargas. Graham and Henry got a guaranteed $27 million in guarantees from the Denver Broncos. More production, fewer dollars.
It’s all about the Benjamins in that way as well.
The Lofton story
A wise man once said, “Buy what you want, I’m not selling. I use my own mind and you should do the same. Don’t use anyone else as an excuse. I’m telling you what I think, and that’s it. The rest is up to you.”
I stand behind both the news story in the newspaper and the opinion piece posted in this blog and wouldn’t change a word.
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
February 1st, 2008 at 9:39 am
You may be on top of the blog world now but we will turn on you like a pack of rabid dogs if you go wobbly on us with the Godfather
February 1st, 2008 at 9:39 am
As the world turns…
February 1st, 2008 at 9:39 am
Very well written, Jerry, thoughtful. Appreciate what you tagged on at the end as well.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:44 am
Love us or hate us….we’re still the Raiders!
February 1st, 2008 at 9:45 am
You know there are always players on any team that would just love to put on the Silver and Black. The Nation attracts many from any walk of life. A few years back I had a GF in Mexico City who is one of the main persons in that country advocating children’s rights and helping abused women. She knew nothing of the NFL, but she did want a Raider shirt.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:46 am
period
February 1st, 2008 at 9:48 am
Check out this little media tid-bit…
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/8186-NFL-Cincinnati_Bengals-Oakland_Raiders-Chad_Johnson_Oakland_Bound_-310108
Did anyone catch it? Didn’t he say Oprah? That seems to be the comment of most…
February 1st, 2008 at 9:49 am
Mr MacDonald…
that was one of the best articles i read from you lately…
well done…
February 1st, 2008 at 9:50 am
How can you guys expect Al Davis to receive loyalty when hes firing people left and right? Isn’t that going against himself being loyal to the people hes hiring? “I’m loyal to you until you lose 10 games…then…get the hell out of here, I don’t want to see your face anymore.” What kind of loyalty is that? Its like telling someone you want to help them become successful and then you stop talking to them after 30 days. Well what the heck happened there? You just can’t give what you don’t have. Its a 2 way street.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:53 am
Jerry..On the Lofton story…I know some have been harsh on you but I have to say once you found out the situation may have been different than what you posted at first…you put that news out there also and I think that is about all you can do. Unless AD decides to start sending you updates personally….but don’t hold your breath on that happening.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:54 am
Davis is playing chess with his head coach. I see the move to insert Lofton as the WR coach as Davis saying, “Check,” and we’ll see how the locker room reacts, whether they’ve got Kiffin’s back and play hard for him all year or if the locker room is fractured…
February 1st, 2008 at 9:54 am
The only way for a fan to have any influence on change whatsoever on this team is to cancel their season’s tickets and stop buying game day tickets, raider jerseys, or anything else affiliated with this DOA franchise. To think AD pays any attention to fans otherwise seems to me delusional.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:55 am
dang Huff… are you serious???
it’s a business…
when i hire anyone, manager or worker… i expect and am entitled to production…
start screwing up my system… i show you the door…
start costing me more than i’m paying… there is the door…
believe me, i treat my employees pretty well, and most of them are very happy… of course they are the ones producing and getting promotions and raises…
the others are getting left behind… they probably don’t love me so much…
in time, they will probably be shown the door…
guess i’m not that loyal after all…
February 1st, 2008 at 9:59 am
David Densmore, the only thing you can really ever change effectively is yourself.
February 1st, 2008 at 9:59 am
Blackholepriest Says:
February 1st, 2008 at 12:02 am
Buy what you want to buy I’m not selling anything I use my own mind and you should do the same. Don’t use anyone else as an excuse.
I’m telling you what I think, and that’s it. the rest is up to YOU.
(Anybody notice who the quote in this blog was pulled from? Jerry…You’re not helping the situation. This man’s ego will now jump sky high and he will probably throw it in the face of everyone for all eternity but I also see this as a psychological move. I might be killing it by mentioning it but I can’t help it. You just might be asking for peace from someone who is quick to interrogate and critique your every blog. The problem? All it probably did was boost ones ego and make him more powerful and its only going to get worse. Sounds like AD himself.)
February 1st, 2008 at 10:03 am
Personally, I think a better quote would have been:
A wise man once said, “DRAFT MCFADDEN!”
February 1st, 2008 at 10:04 am
Very nice article Jerry.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:06 am
Wow. No matter what is said, inferred, rumored, retracted, gestured, hinted at or denied, some contributors to this blog find only one focus for their comments, their bogeyman, Al Davis. Must’ve heard some pretty scary stories as children.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:07 am
First off Jerry i dont care if your source is accurate on this story or not. I have been reading you long enough that IF a story didnt pan out as you reported it would be in the minority compared to the rest of the info you have given.
How ever if its as bad as your source says, why doesnt kiffin come out and bury Davis once and for all? He has no reason to stay tight lipped if he is on his way out.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:10 am
btw what happened to the ask Jerry deal i thought that was going to be ongoing?
February 1st, 2008 at 10:10 am
Florida Pete - Exactly. So all this talk about loyalty is crap. Like I said, You can’t give what you don’t have. If you tell a coach he has a 3 year contract but you fire him after 1-2 seasons because things didn’t go exactly your way then you’re going against your word. Contracts are not meant to be broken.
Contract:
1. an agreement between two or more parties for the doing or not doing of something specified.
2. an agreement enforceable by law.
This is the life of business. There is no doubt about it but contracts are supposed to be enforced but they are treated like marriage which is basically a contract as well. The problem? Everybody does what the hell they want to do anyways, regardless. There is no loyalty and for those who have it…its extremely rare. Theres rarely any punishment for breaking a contract so people do it because they can get away with it. Let me tell you…that wasn’t the case in the Military. That is the single most place that I know where its tough to break that contract. You have to go through leaps and bounds.
Loyalty:
1. the state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments or obligations.
2. faithful adherence to a sovereign, government, leader, cause, etc.
3. an example or instance of faithfulness, adherence, or the like: a man with fierce loyalties.
I believe Al Davis was commited to Mike Lombardi. Then Al brings in Art Shell like a mistress and Shell breaks up the party. Instead of being loyal to Lombardi, Lombardi gets fired so he goes to the Broncos and then Art Shell gets fired as well. So Al Davis was loyal to Lombardi and Art Shell and the feelings were mutual but 1 thing goes bad and both men are gone? Now THAT is dysfunctional.
n. Abnormal or impaired functioning, especially of a bodily system or social group.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:11 am
A wise man once said:
3/4 a cup of sugar, one pack of cherry flavored Kool-Aid on 2 quarts of water……
February 1st, 2008 at 10:17 am
A wise man once said…
http://youtube.com/watch?v=tnC8BtNBNLo
February 1st, 2008 at 10:19 am
Jerry, Jerry, you took personal all of our comments. Still, be more objective in your blog. Maybe if you get the oppinions of several players (not just raider players), and how they feel about the Raider organization, we will get a better idea, they don’t buy on what the media says about anything. In the past, I only heard good things about how the Raiders and Al Davis treated all of his players, that isn’t important anymore or that isn’t the case anymore? Come Jerry be creative.
Thanks.
Jose Aguirre. (Mexico)
February 1st, 2008 at 10:19 am
Huff…will there be a test later?
You should have sent that writeup to AD.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:22 am
lol….Maybe
February 1st, 2008 at 10:23 am
Dakota, thanks for the link. I’ll check it out when I get home.
Good work as always, Jerry. Ever thought of writing a book? I’d buy it.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:24 am
Sent to Moss’ family a “package of Raider…?” Not sure what that means. I agree that it’s all about the benjamins, part of the team’s problem of late, getting players who are only out for a paycheck. We’ll always be able to sign players, there’s too much money involved. But, are the raiders able to sign the BEST players, those that place winning as the number one priority? Hmmm, not so sure.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:28 am
The mention of Jordan and Burgess being big names isn’t exactly true. Jordan was a backup to Curtis Martin for 4 years. He never established himself and was a question mark. He had a great average as a backup but was never forced to carry the load for a full season. Then…we go out and sign him to a multi-year contract.
Burgess was a nobody until the playoffs with the Eagles. Then he ends up with 2.5 sacks or something like that and goes into the off-season with momentum on his side. He was an injury prone player that had great talent but couldn’t hold up. We signed him to a multi-year contract but I thought the deal was fair and better than Jordan’s. It was still a huge risk nonetheless and obviously the deal worked out great for us.
Basically…that put us at 50-50. I still wouldn’t call them household names at the time we signed them so I wouldn’t consider them BIG moves at the time.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:35 am
The whole secrecey thing with the Raiders was cool… in the Pre-Internet Era.
Now it’s just pathetic. Especially when you have a .238 winning percentage.
But I guess that’s how 19 - 61 teams run their operation.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:38 am
Moss free agent signing = show me the paycheck
February 1st, 2008 at 10:40 am
Moss wasn’t a free agent. We gave up Napolean Harris and a draft pick.
He’s still playing under his Minny contract.
I know this is splitting hairs, but still.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:41 am
the Raiders have always been this way…
since the beginning of time…
even when the Raiders won 10 games every season…
nobody really knew what was going on behind the silver and black door…
it’s got nothing to do with being 19-61…
i would tell you why this is so…
but that’s a secret, too…
February 1st, 2008 at 10:43 am
The free agent part might be right but how about the Benjamins part? I try not to remember details about that guy!
February 1st, 2008 at 10:45 am
Moss got paid, like 10M for each year he was here…
February 1st, 2008 at 10:45 am
Florida Pete, I like your style. Very e.e. cummings.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:49 am
I think the secrecy was cool then because there WAS the mystique factor. There’s no mystique when you lose 61 games in 5 years.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:51 am
Sorry to repost:
Huff, who the heck is Davis firing??? Davis fired Norvell after 5-11 and then 4-12. That’s regression. I would’ve fired his ass too.
Regarding Sam Williams, this last year was probably Williams best year as a pro. Like someone said for the $700k, why not. Oh and Mistabrown, Sam Williams is on the 2008 roster. Just so ya know.
Finally you guys the botched Lofton deal is on the last page of this mornings SF Chronicle. The last page!! This is important, because I think we got the story right here. The writer quotes Raider blogs as having Anti-Davis bias. So obviously they read what goes on here. The point is if things hadn’t simmered down, and there was extreme mutiny here, this would have been front page news with Kiffin leaving AGAIN, the Raiders moving to Irwindale AGAIN, and Jamarcus being traded to Atlanta.
And for my public service announcement for today:
Kids, railroad tracks are not playgrounds!
February 1st, 2008 at 10:53 am
LaMont Jordan was the #1 running back available that free agency. Although not established, everyone wanted him. The Jets turned down a 3rd round pick the year before Jordan’s signing.
It might not be your household, but to the front offices throughout the NFL, both Burgess and Jordan were the talk of the time. Jordan and Burgess led a mediocre free agent class, but for what it’s worth, the Raiders signed the best men available.
February 1st, 2008 at 10:57 am
Glenn, nice. You know, in Oklahoma, there really ARE public service announcements about the dangers of train tracks. “DON’T TRY TO BEAT THE TRAIN.” Funniest thing I ever heard, this guy saying, “I’m sorry honey, I’ll never do that again!” With the sound of metal twisting.
And people wonder why people on the coasts are “elitists.”
February 1st, 2008 at 11:00 am
The Tribune at least put the retraction by Jerry as the headline article, albeit in smaller type-set than the previous day’s astounding, up-to-the-minute falsity.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:02 am
Huff said a few things:
“How can you guys expect Al Davis to receive loyalty when hes firing people left and right? Isn’t that going against himself being loyal to the people hes hiring? “I’m loyal to you until you lose 10 games…then…get the hell out of here, I don’t want to see your face anymore.” What kind of loyalty is that? Its like telling someone you want to help them become successful and then you stop talking to them after 30 days. Well what the heck happened there? You just can’t give what you don’t have. Its a 2 way street.”
Followed by:
“…Exactly. So all this talk about loyalty is crap. Like I said, You can’t give what you don’t have. If you tell a coach he has a 3 year contract but you fire him after 1-2 seasons because things didn’t go exactly your way then you’re going against your word. Contracts are not meant to be broken.
Contract:
1. an agreement between two or more parties for the doing or not doing of something specified.
2. an agreement enforceable by law.
This is the life of business. There is no doubt about it but contracts are supposed to be enforced but they are treated like marriage which is basically a contract as well. …”
First, I would like to know what you meant by “firing people left and right.” Are you referring to the past coaching staffs? If so, would you argue with the performance and the results of any in the last several years as justifying to not get dismissed in an attempt (feeble as they may have been) to get more wins than losses for the team? In other words, do you believe that any of the recent firings have not been the right move for the organization?
Second, to comment on your interpretation of the contracts, I think that you are missing a fundamental point. Every contract that I’ve ever dealt with has included language discussing the procedure for voiding it by either party prior to the contracted time frame. I’m pretty confident that things as elaborate as head coach contracts have this covered in great detail. I would posit that it states that the organization has the right to terminate the employment status of the coach so long as they honor the agreed upon payment schedule. I also wouldn’t be shocked to see that there s language in there that discusses performance.
What this means is that by dismissing a contracted head coach, in all liklihood it is still honoring the contract by following one of the optional clauses. The employer reserves the right to replace people that it feels they can improve on and they will pay for that choice per the contract.
If the coaches don’t like those ramifications then they don’t have to sign those multi-million dollar deals. So when they sign on the dotted line and start accepting those large paychecks, they are fully aware and acknowledge the terms of their employment status.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:07 am
When I lived in Denver some years back, the Post ran some kind of article about Horseteeth 360 days out of 365 (The Post’s own admission). Horseteeth rarely if ever responded to any of it even if the report was that he eaten two waffles for breakfast instead of the two crepes he had actually eaten.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:07 am
M,
What RETRACTION are you talking about? Jerry posted information from his source and then the Raiders responded. He never backed down from his source and first article, he simply put out the Raiders side of the BS…I mean story.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:09 am
Nice post Zymurge.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:10 am
Oakland, call me.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:10 am
i had such a wonderful response for Huff with the definintions of phrases like:
“good faith” and “hosed up”…
but i refreshed the page and lost it…
i should fire myself…
or at the very least… give myself the rest of the afternooon off…
February 1st, 2008 at 11:12 am
there are performance clauses in virtually every employment contract…
i mean, ya still gotta go to work…
February 1st, 2008 at 11:12 am
C’mon Jerry…
You know just because a “source” gives you info, you have to corroborate his story.
You rushed to print with a bad story and got caught with your pants down.
Suck it up.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:13 am
Just my opinion, but I think anyone who gives up their tickets to the Raiders for anything other than financial or family reasons wasn’t really a Raiders fan to begin with. Silver and Black for Life!!!!
February 1st, 2008 at 11:13 am
This was posted on MLive.com (Detroit newspaper):
“If the Lions do trade Shaun Rogers, it is thought they’ll ask for a proven player who can immediately fill one of the Lions’ many defensive holes, not draft picks.”
Fabian Washington for Shaun Rogers? I’d do it in a heartbeat..
February 1st, 2008 at 11:14 am
Dakota, sorry I used the word retraction. Perhaps I should’ve used a more appropriate turn of phrase. Re-clarification of a rumor perhaps?
February 1st, 2008 at 11:15 am
Jerry, this is what I meant, about getting the players oppinions. The following is an article from the SacBee web page:
January 31, 2008
Hanging with Coop
I spent a couple of hours with Jarrod Cooper down at the Oakland Animal Shelter, where he spends a lot of his time.
I’ll be writing more about that later, but here two things you’d be interested to know from today.
First, Coop’s rehab is going great at the team facility. He tore is ACL in November is about nine weeks removed from surgery. He’s able to run and is looking good and expects to be resigned and back with the team for workouts in late March.
He also is behind Lane Kiffin and the coaching staff. Any disgruntled players are in the minority, he said, because the change from year’s past to last season was drastic, even if hasn’t shown up in wins yet.
Just so you know, Cooper will be at the shelter (1101 29th Street in Oakland) on Feb. 9 helping give tours. Coop is a volunteer for what I learned today is an extremely good cause.
For more information on what’s going on at the shelter click here.
–Jason Jones
February 1st, 2008 at 11:17 am
No One wants to hear it But i’m pretty sure Dennis Green Will Be the new head coach in Oaktown. Before next season
February 1st, 2008 at 11:19 am
M,
More like; the other side’s response. I don’t think we can declare either story the truth at this point. Jerry just had the nutz to post information that contradicted his story and source, he didn’t come out and say, sorry, my first article was incorrect. He just laid out what the Raiders had to say…
Not many journalists would do even that. (Mortenson?)
February 1st, 2008 at 11:20 am
Nice article Jerry.
I have been trying to convince some of these guys that the thing that free agents care about most is M-O-N-E-Y! Many bloggers continue to mention that no free agents will want to come to Oakland because of the dysfunction. Hopefully your article will wake a few people up out of there Al Davis induced haze.
I would like to see Chad Johnson play for the Raiders. His antics are excusable if he produces and that guy never takes plays off, unlike some wr the Raiders have had in the past, I won’t even mention that persons name.
If I had to choose though I would take Roy Williams over Chad Johnson in a heartbeat. Johnson is a big play wr but Williams is a beast. I always think of his play last year when he made a catch over the middle, his helmet flew off and he continued down field another 25 yards or so with people in pursuit.
BHP - Props are in order due to the fact you were quoted by the author of this blog. It’s good to know that Jerry actually reads our responses and values some of our opinions enough to respond, whether he thinks we are right or wrong.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:21 am
I would bet large money Denny Green will be sitting at home eating ribs this time next year with no job in the NFL except maybe the NFL network. Wanna bet?
February 1st, 2008 at 11:23 am
Chris, well said in #39. I was going to say similar.
The one thing that I would add is that Jordan was in very much the same boat that Michael Turner is today. A backup RB behind a top NFL talent. The NFL consensus feeling sounds like they see him as starting material for teams that don’t have an LT in front of him.
In looking at their stats in their years before FA, each them had pretty similar numbers playing as the #2 RB. Turner had a few more carries an yards, while Jordan had considerably more receptions.
In fact, looking at Jordan’s stats as a Raider, it’s not as horrible as recent memory would indicate. He did have a 1000 yard season in year 1 of his Raiders contract. In his 3 year ‘career’ here he has almost exactly 2000 yards in 29 starts, which is the on a per game basis on track for better than two 1000 yard seasons. He’s averaged a not stellar but not bad 3.8 yds per carry the whole 3 years, behind an Oline that we all know had serious issues. Games missed to injury excluded (that’s a different debate) I’d say he performed adequately but lower than expectations for his contract.
Just wait a month and see what kind of deals that Turner gets offered to get a feeling for what the going price is to lock up a high potential yet unproven as a starter RB in free agency. My gut says that it will be in the same neighborhood as what Jordan was given, so it will be good indication of market value.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:26 am
Dogg,
If we do get CJ, any chance we can convince him to turn his gold teeth in for a set of silver and black ones?
February 1st, 2008 at 11:29 am
dakota, I appreciate the posts that Jerry uses to foment this blog site. I also do appreciate that he was willing to quote responses that did not coincide with what he had previously written. No, the Shefters and Mortensens and Claytons and Gays of this world won’t do that. nonetheless, a rumor is just a rumor is just a rumor.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:31 am
You know what gets me about these mediots…when they start quoting these “league sources” on RAIDER BUSINESS. Like what the eff does mo-Joe from Cincy or wherever know about Raider business? At least thats how I distinguish “league sources” from “team sources”. Its even worse when you realize that even “team sources” don’t know what the heck they’re talking about half the time.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:31 am
Totally against getting CJ for one very important reason….it’s gonna cost at least our first round pick…3rd or 4th overall.We need to build, not waste. I believe anything is possible, but realistically, we’re not a playoff team yet, that’s why CJ wants to leave Cincy, we need to improve through the draft and free agency instead of throwing away 2-3 draft picks for 1 player IMO
February 1st, 2008 at 11:33 am
How much has Michael Turner benefitted from being that back-up to LT? How many defenders relaxed a bit when they saw the all-pro on the sidelines? Human nature.
He certainly was not impressive in the AFC title game when the defense knew that LT was out.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:36 am
about Jordan…
i can’t get the image out of my mind of Jordan thumping his chest … “my bad”, every time he dropped an easy pass that first year with us…
and i still can’t reconcile all the energy Jordan expends getting up to the line of scrimmage… if just some of that energy were used running toward the line of scrimmage, his freaking momentum would have gotten him an extra 3 yards per carry…
um, i’m not a big Jordan fan…
i like Fargas though…
and i really like just thinking what Michael Bush might do next year…
February 1st, 2008 at 11:38 am
Exactly M - Thats why I am vehomently (sp?)opposed to Mike Turner, who some of our brethren would love to get. The guy is a freakin BACKUP!! They’re are backups in the league for a reason. Why would you want another BACKUP to be a STARTER? LJ hint hint.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:44 am
vehemently
February 1st, 2008 at 11:44 am
I love it…..The same people squawking about Al Davis’ lack of loyalty are the same ones whos cried all off and preseason about the so called “Scholarship” players and Davis’ blind loyalty….Make up your tiny little minds!
February 1st, 2008 at 11:47 am
Yeah But he who laughs last…laughs best
like the joy and laughter of winning a Superbowl
No laughter in Sandy Eggo then.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:47 am
do you smell that???
February 1st, 2008 at 11:48 am
LT will never be the same.
Just a gimp with knee surgery now.
Oh yeah, so is Rivers.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:50 am
Say Charger, LT is out of gas and leaking oil. He had an interview yesterday and the interviewer asked him what was wrong. Charger fan questioning LT’s heart is just, well heartless. Dude your team is going in the wrong direction. You don’t have 2nd 3rd or 4th round draft picks this year. See ya back where you belong. Face planted in the bottom of the division, taking it like you have for 40 years
February 1st, 2008 at 11:52 am
wow… oakglenn
now that was rude!!!
(good, but rude)
February 1st, 2008 at 11:55 am
And Pete that’s the new improved cleaned up me!!!!! Followed by public service announcement:
Kids, substitute teachers are not objects of ridicule
February 1st, 2008 at 11:56 am
The Faidernation’s confidence is broken, scattered to the wind. It appears your united front is confused and torn just like your team. You will never see a championship again with AL DAVIS still breathing.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:56 am
Anyone on here watch the AFL?
February 1st, 2008 at 11:59 am
I saw the Raiders in the Super Bowl in 2002. I haven’t seen the Chargers there at all.
I know they went once, but I think they let the cheerleaders play the game.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Sorry to repost again. Oh BTW, in 1980 Raiders won the Super Bowl!!!!!
Chargers are STILL COMING IN HERE??? They must be really stupid. The Discharge HAD to get over last year or this year. Had to. they didn’t. Let me repost something I wrote earlier today:
Repost:
And as for the San Diego Dischargers, let’s take a quick look at them in the Conference Championship Games:
1980 Oakland Raiders 34 Lame Discharge 27
1981 Cinncinnatti 27 Lame Discharge 7
2007 New England 21 Lame Discharge 12
I would give them credit for the sole AFC Championship game they won, however the beat down they took in the Super Bowl was so gruesome, that with young children reading this blog, decorum and class prohibit me from discussing it here.
Bottom line, Raiders it’s useless to engage with Charger, they’re losing ways are too much to take. And now on to my public service announcement:
Only users lose drugs
February 1st, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Greetings Raider Nation,
I have not posted in almost a year, but have been reading the blog regularly. I have been reading and paying attention closely since last friday when all this hit the fan. I must admit I am furious at all of this nonsense. Perception is reality, and if the Raiders want to squash all this they could have done so with Kiffin and/or Davis speaking to the media. From all the rumors/reports that started during the season, there is/was a rift between Davis and Kiffin, but we do not know the extent of it or if they have moved on from it unless those 2 comment on it.
However it is true that the media, including the author of this blog, are guilty of embellishing and massaging the extent of the real situation. For example who should we believe when this blog and other articles state the Herrera quote regarding the loften situation in a light where it is vague and not clear whether Lane Kiffin after interviewing loften actually asks Davis and the Raiders to hire Loften and give him a contract. However the SF Gate article below shows the Herrera quote specifically including this:
“He(kiffin) told Mr. Davis to go ahead and get him on board. Jerry’s entire quote of Herrera regarding this issue leaves this part of the quote out. Now maybe Jerry heard it different or Herrera did not mention that to Jerry and did to David. I find it hard to believe though that Herrera would leave that part out when talking to Jerry. This is what I am talking about when i say “massaging the truth.”
Dwhite’s article:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=11&entry_id=23889
What i am sure of is that the last Fiday ESPN rumors of Kiffin being stripped of personnel and coaching authority have have been clearly debunked with local media reports that Kiffin did in fact interview with Loften on Monday.
Let’s hope this does not affect our ability to draft well and get quality FA.
Raider Nation Baby!
February 1st, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Continue to live in the past Raidernation, and the Charger fans will love you for it. Ever been to a Faider game all you see on the scoreboard are old Raider highlights from the 60’s, 70’s , and 80’s. That is pathetic. I believe you guys are the only team that holds onto the past. And taking it in the rear? Seems to me the Raiders are better at that than any team in the last six years.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Sorry Charger can’t talk, I’m too busy polishing my Super Bowl rings. They look nice don’t they. You know why Charger can only talk about the future??? They haven’t lost there yet.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:08 pm
Dakota -
From what I understand CJ has several sets of removable grills, one of which may or may not be silver and black, now that I think about it, they are probably platinum and black.
Raiderwill1980 -
Regarding CJ, I highly doubt that Cincy will get a 1st round pick for him, especially in this years draft. The reason being that everybody in the NFL knows that he wants out of Cincy, which means teams will wait if they have to, knowing that Cincy will HAVE to make a move eventually, unless they want a cancer in the locker room all season long. They might get a 2nd rounder and if they do it will probably be in next years draft.
A trade scenario will most likely be a 3rd or 4th for next year packaged with a second tier player. That’s my guess anyway.
OG - any thoughts?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Charger LT is done. Jamal Williams your best defender is done. You don’t have draft pix in 2nd, 3rd or 4th rounds this year. Do what you do best. Bend over and take it from the rest of the league.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Do you know why the Chargeless don’t show highlights from the past at their games? What are they supposed to show Stan Humphries handing the ball off to Natrone means while they get their butt handed to them by the 9ers in the Super Bowl? Or maybe they can show LT sitting on the bench crying like a little girl.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Dogg, I agree. Maybe a 2nd rounder, which is what Cincy paid for him, plus a couple of defensive players. Fabian Washington, maybe Schweigert too. Would you a 2nd rounder, Washington and Schweigert for 85??
February 1st, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Maybe a 2nd rounder next year and Schweigert. I’m not ready to give up on Washington just yet. I would gladly throw in Brayton though…
February 1st, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Unfortunately, you are right Charger LT…giggidy, giggidy…alriiiiight!
February 1st, 2008 at 12:14 pm
I used to, but they merged with the NFL a few years back. The Bills had better unis then. So did the Chargers, for that matter. And the Patriots. And the Colts and Steelers weren’t in our league.
And Al Davis was the commish, and Pete Rozelle hated his guts. And vice-versa.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Hey Charger only winning teams like to fondly remember the past. You know like the teams that have won a superbowl or three. Like the Raiders, Cowboys, Packers and Steelers. You know real legacy teams.
You Charger fans are always the bridesmaids and never the bride, sign.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:17 pm
So the senate is interested in the spygate videos and why the NFL destroyed them! I say go Arlen
February 1st, 2008 at 12:18 pm
I second that notion Hobs. It’s about time too. I read somewhere that Arlen is a closet Raider fan.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:19 pm
B_rainfarts L_ies O_pinions G_ames S_peculations…..
are you guys gonna grow up and stop making a fool out of ALL of us now?
….on a daily basis for the sake of a freeking post lol?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Charger boy? Kind of sounds like “Under Dog”
February 1st, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I really hope to god that Denny Green will never be a coach of the Raiders. I really hope that Bush comes out like a mac truck next year, I guess we’ll see what happens. I honestly wouldn’t mind CJ in a silver and black Jersey, but I’d have to agree that I’d take Roy Williams over him too. I read on one website that the raiders where changing uniforms for next year, anyone know anything about this?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Dogg, he has to show allegience to the Eagles, but yeah secretly he probably wears silver and black.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Yeah, the raiders are changing their logo want to see?
http://forums.chargers.com/showthread.php?t=33937
February 1st, 2008 at 12:26 pm
K-Rock… I know you were talking Arena league, but I had to throw the American Football League out there. Maybe some of you guys have heard of this book, maybe some of you haven’t, but it’s worth seeking out.
It’s called “The Other League” and is a definitive history of the old AFL from, literally, the beginning to the end. Great photography, stories, player and team profiles, etc. Their All-Time AFL team includes Willie Brown, Dave Grayson, Jim Otto and others.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Oakglenn,
I would do our 4th round pick, Fabian, and Stuart for 85. We need to use our 1st 2 round picks and get 2 starters out of this draft. The rest of the rounds is not going to help as we dont have a 3rd or 5th.
Round 1 - DL: Long,Ellis,Dorsey in that order.
Round 2 - OL: Gosder Cherilus(if avail), best avail LT
Unless Dorsey tanks at the combine, I think we maybe able to trade down in the 1st round from pick 3/4 to pick 6/7 and get Ellis and an extra 2nd rounder. This extra 2nd rounder should be a Strong Safety. 215 lbs + and big hitter. No more 200 lb safeties that are fast. We have plenty of speed on defense.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Yeah, notice how that Raider is looking right at the Discharge (faaaaart) putting up the L sign. BTW, how’d you do one game away from the Super Bowl Discharger???? (faaaaart) Oh right, you lost again. (faaart)
February 1st, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Kansasraider….where in kansas?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Lord, there you have it. You’d probably HAVE TO give up a 2nd rounder for #85. Plus one other guy.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:30 pm
This is good draft site with 4 round mock and positional player rankings.
http://walterfootball.com/draft2008.php
February 1st, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Arlen’s an iggles fan. It says he calls into a sportstalk radio on mondays.
I hope he nails those somanum batches, too.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Oakglenn,
If it takes a 2nd rounder than i say no deal to 85. You are probably right that Cincy will want a 2nd or at least 3rd for 85.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Yeah Lord at least a 2nd and a good defender. And I’m with you then, no deal.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:36 pm
You know I used to not even care about the Dischargers, they meant nothing to me because they sucked for so long and always lost. They have a hummingbird qb with an alligator mouth who is always flapping and never backing it up, I hate them a little more every year. And LT really showed his true colors last year when someone made fun of that gay steroid induced Merriman ladder dance when they lost and he started to cry after he ran onto the field to “act” like he might actually fight someone for it, so the dance is o.k. to do unless it’s done to them? Bottom line - Rivers sucks (can you say 4 FG’s and no touchdowns?) LT is a baby and without your tight end who is your best WR, you can’t even contend. It won’t be long until the Raiders put you back where you belong.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:37 pm
But that may change if we get to day 1 of the draft and no takers for 85. A 4th plus players may work for Cincy. We got desperate with moss at that time of the draft last year.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Proudly representing Oakland from McPherson KS. since 1980.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:38 pm
“Oprah, Call Me!”
February 1st, 2008 at 12:39 pm
there is a story on PFT about an ex-employee of the Patriots who worked in the video department for them. Does anyone know what the speculation is that he knows?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Yessss!! Brad Roll has been hired as Strengh coach. All of our problems are solved!
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=38234
February 1st, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Good Lord Almighty
Big props to Arlen Specter, pounce on Senator…millions of NFL fans have your back.
I just read the espn story, it´s a must read, a Pats former video assistant from 96 to 06 never contacted by the league while a ”thorough investigation” took place?…hmmm
Specter a member of the Senate´s Judiciary Committee writtes a letter to Goodell on Nov. 15 and Goodell says he learned about it 2 months later?…hmmm.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:46 pm
ATLRaider Says:
February 1st, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Yessss!! Brad Roll has been hired as Strengh coach. All of our problems are solved!
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=38234
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can he still play center???
February 1st, 2008 at 12:47 pm
I say if we can get 85 without giving up the farm, so be it. But is HAS to be a good deal for us and not a desperation-give-up-more-than-we-should thing, or else we compromise too many other areas on what is a young and developing team. One thing that tells me that we porbably aren’t interested, though, is the hiring of James Lofton. He’s here to coach young guys to get better, in my opinion, and it feels like that’s the way we’re going with the WR position.
As far as Roy Williams, I say no. He’s not as young as he used to be and his coverage weaknesses are well-known and exploited more now than ever.
Remember this name: Josh Barrett, Arizona State. Strong safety noted for his toughness and run-stopping ability. He’s 6-2/225 and, according to scouting reports is a classic, in-the-box run-stuffing safety that has good cover skills as well. One scouting report describes him as “a safety in a linebacker’s body.” I don’t think (barring a trade) we’ll get anywhere near Kenny Phillips, and this guy seems to be a better fit for what we need than Phillips would be anyway.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:47 pm
I am not a big fan of congress getting involved with sports like they did with MLB, however I would not get my feelings hurt if they got this Walsh guy on the stand.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:48 pm
whoops just read my post 116 that’s here not hear.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:48 pm
On the other hand, I wouldn´t be surprised if national media oulets release an ”Al Davis suspected of harboring Bin Laden in a secret bunker under the Alameda complex, some suspect they are the same person” breaking story…”on a related note, there was some nonsense going around about some senator trying to tarnish the patriots legacy”.
February 1st, 2008 at 12:54 pm
what’s that smell???
February 1st, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Thanks for the Brad Roll info, Florida Pete.
Did anyone notice who interviewed him for the job?
February 1st, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Im in Falun, Kansas just north of you 20 miles
February 1st, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Is that where the liitle red school house is?
February 1st, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Raider from Birth….Kiffin.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:04 pm
“That smell, it smells like, victory” Robert Duvall
February 1st, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Kiffin is better then Norv, and he could take him in a fight.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:07 pm
nope it’s 7 miles west of Assaria 12 miles northwest of Lindsborg…. the only business still open here is the grain elevator.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Quagmire… yeah, I know. Just making a point.
Thanks, though.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:17 pm
No one’s been fired, no one’s been released. So why you crying?
February 1st, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Oh and BTW Discharge, We now have a copy of your playbook.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Frustration is the name of the game with the Raiders. Al Davis, it appears, wants to destroy this time. This goes all the way back to what happened with Marcus Allen. Davis wants control more than winning. Actions speak louder than words. He may own the team, but the fans deserve much better than what he has given since the last Super Bowl appearance.
Commitment to Excellence is nonexistent with this franchise the way it is now. This is just mere rhetoric that gets more and more stale, as it is no longer backed up with winning. On the bright side, at least they did better than last year and beat 2 AFC West opponents.
As long as Al Davis has anything to do with the Raiders, forget playoffs or a Super Bowl win. Learn from the Patriots - they went out and secured the BEST PLAYERS AND COACHES!! Why is Randy Moss doing well with them when he didn’t do well with the Raiders? The answer is obvious. I liked the Raiders the way they used to be, when they were WINNING! Get the picture, Al Davis? WINNING. W-I-N-N-I-N-G. Very different from L-O-S-I-N-G.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Davis was loyal to Ryan. It was Kiffin that allowed his interest in the ARK job get in the news and back to Davis.
And Who did Davis fire that did not need to be fired?
February 1st, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Nancy
February 1st, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Are the people claiming that adding Stu and Brayton to the trade offer for Ocho Cinco in order to make it attractive for Cincy the same that are saying that these guys should be cut?
If so, maybe you should rethink their value to the rest of the league. The last time that I looked, the Raiders roster wasn’t so stacked such that those that can’t make our ‘08 team are gonna be good pick-ups for better teams.
So PLEASE try to consider the other team’s perspective and valuation when proposing a trade. I don’t think that a 4th, Stu and a couple of lightly used jock straps is going to be the best offer that the Bengals would get from a proven talet like CJ, so get real. Or at least state that it’s a dream scenario for you.
Remember, it’s not about what is a good deal for the Raiders. His asking price will be set by the team willing to pay the most. My hunch says that there are other teams out there that feel like they are one bonafide #1 WR away from being a top notch team. There would be a serious bidding contest for #85 if and when he is put out there. And I don’t think that the Raiders are ready to pay that price yet.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Zymurge… thanks for that. I’ve never understood how someone that should be cut from a 4-12 team could possibly be considered seriously as trade bait for anyone, much less a player the caliber of Chad Johnson.
85 would be great. He’s a darn good player and charismatic to boot. We would have to steal him to justify a trade, though. His salary alone puts too many eggs in one basket, so to speak.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Zymurge -
Only time will tell regarding Chad Johnsons value. You are right though it’s all about the highest bidder. When I mentioned the scenario earlier, it was one that I thought would benefit the Raiders the most.
I still think his value you will be lower than you think based on the fact that all teams in the NFL know that CJ wants OUT of Cincy. If CJ wants out so bad, and if Cincy doesn’t unload him, he could become a distraction and a cancer in the locker room of a team that doesn’t need any more headaches. Knowing this teams will under bid for his services, knowing that Cincy, at some point, will have to settle. Very similar to the Moss situation last year actually.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Maybe we can trade Brayton, Schweigert & Simms for some tackling dummies.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:41 pm
see ya KoolKell er umm I mean Charger Boy
February 1st, 2008 at 1:42 pm
I don’t like the Patriots at all, so let me make that clear. What I DO like is what they did to start winning. The Raiders could have and should have done that long ago.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:45 pm
KK - you’re not very bright are you?
lol
February 1st, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I hate the Patriots as much as anyone, but the Fed. Government should not be sticking its nose in the NFL’s business. Besides Specter is a RINO.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:49 pm
So is McCain
February 1st, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Man it totally slipped my mind that this was SuperBowl weekend. Man if it aint the RAIDERS then I don’t get too interested. How can I root for another team?
With that said: GO GIANTS!!!!
hahahaha …man Mr. Davis, please don’t make me leave the S&B. I know you won’t. 2008 will be the final year of mediocrity. All years following will be post season memories - contenders - for the next 10 years.
February 1st, 2008 at 1:52 pm
terrapin…
i think you are closer to the truth than you realize…
February 1st, 2008 at 1:53 pm
WHAT’S THAT SMELL…
February 1st, 2008 at 1:54 pm
I agree Explain It To Me
February 1st, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Mr. Terrapin -
Thanks for the “shout out” as the kids say these days. I am doing everything in my power to make the Raiders a contender for years to come. Thank you for your patience and allegiance.
Al Davis
February 1st, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Maybe other teams will see what happened with Moss this year and think that some of our scrub players are only bad because they’re on the Raiders. Maybe we can squeeze out some more value for scrubs like Jordan and Schweigert
February 1st, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Chad Johnson told Kirk Morrison he can turn the Blackhole white. Wow
February 1st, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Uknown I just saw that too. Al do something right and go get Chad!
February 1st, 2008 at 2:01 pm
let me help…
Schweigert is one of the best freaking safties to ever play the game of football…
if he were on any other team he would have been All-Pro 3 years running… he’s another Rod Woodson …
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there, that should do it…
85 straight up trade for Stu…
February 1st, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Where did you see this?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:01 pm
The jim rome show
February 1st, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Nice Florida Pete… We all must do our parts lol… by the way are you related to Handsome Pete?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:03 pm
i ain’t handsome…
i’m a raider fan!!!!
February 1st, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Sorry that was a Simpsons reference
February 1st, 2008 at 2:05 pm
ahhh!!!!
so how is O.J. these days???
February 1st, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I believe in Chad. He can change the culture on the field because he is willing to go over the middle and take a hit. Plus, why would he say Al come and get me.He could’ve said any owner but he said Al. I like that enthusiasm!
February 1st, 2008 at 2:06 pm
In what context did Chad Johnson say that?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:06 pm
We got Roll and guess what…
Roll interviewed with Raiders Head Coach Lane Kiffin and reached an agreement with the organization.
Kiffin was involved, what no spin on this story?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:07 pm
he can play center…
February 1st, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Chad Johnson also said “85 + 89 equals Super Bowl” while on Charlotte radio, referring to his buddy Steve Smith with the Panthers. He’s courting the entire league, anywhere but Cincy for him.
It is kind of funny though that on a national NFL show he said “Oakland, call me”. Maybe he is imagining the possibilities of playing with a qb like JaMarcus.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Terrapin
He was joking around with Kirk but he was serious. He said Al come and get me, I can turn the blackhole white. Dont take this as a ‘racist’ statement but I cant picture the blackhole white. Seriously, he seemed very sincere about coming to the Raiders Terrapin
February 1st, 2008 at 2:14 pm
k..i din’t take it as a racist remark though…but thats good to hear that he may want to come to oaktown…make it happen Kiffin …unless we got bigger plans
February 1st, 2008 at 2:15 pm
why wouldn’t CJ want to come to the Raiders.all the players know that if you’re an older(31),me first,on the downside of your career player,you can come to the raiders an old man Al will over pay you.we need young blood,not players who are getting up in age.unless we could get CJ for a 4th-7th,no deal.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:17 pm
What are you saying Lefty? We’re the NFL retirement home? lol
February 1st, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Time to start for ALL concerned to talk football. Jerry will need to move on and my advice to John is not parlay.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Terrapin
You mean make it happen Al. Remember, Kiffin doesnt know if he is going are coming. lol
February 1st, 2008 at 2:24 pm
in a way-yes.Al always seems to go get these guys when they only have a few years at most left.he rarely gets some young stud in FA,usually older guys.lets build our team with youth so we can be good for more than a couple years at a time.like the old days which i know some of you don’t like mentioned but they did happen.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:24 pm
I love how all how all the Kiffin supporters/Raiders& AL haters who said that no top FA’s would want to come to Oakland.LOL!!!! “Oakland call me!” Just more proof that the AL-bashers/Raider haters are more concerned with exaggerating and hating than actual truth.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Somebody help me out the first member I recall is Calvin Branch of the “Why is he still on the roster?” a college running back converted to CB to safety and now is lost somewhere in the scouting department! The “N F E” National Football Entertainment gets better by the day! Will Goodell claim ownership of the Raiders? would that be equivalent to Vince trying to be a wrestler?
HELL!! All the Al supporters talk about loyalty he left all you guys and went to LA where the money “supposedly” was.. he came back thinking he was going to cash in some more… he was so ignorant he sued the county,city, whoever because they promised him sellouts …pleaseeeee Don’t bring the loyaty card against Kiffin.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Hey charger fan…why are you so concered about the raiders? Are you tired of crying over your own team…go to a chargers site so you can all whine together…When you guys win something worth talking about,get back to us.Until then eat shit……..
February 1st, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Just Sign Ocho Cinco, Baby!
(…a LT, DT, DE, LB & Safety wouldn’t hurt either)
February 1st, 2008 at 2:27 pm
It was Oprah call me…not oakland…….
February 1st, 2008 at 2:32 pm
when the Raiders used to build the team thru the draft we were on top.since FA Al has tried to build more for each year than looking at the long haul-and it hasn’t worked.sure guys like CJ are talented,but haven’t we learned that when players start to get up in age it really is more about the benjamins.young talent is hungry and needs to make a name,old guys need security as they can see the end getting closer.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Dakota -
The Lakers just traded Kwame Brown, rookie Javaris Crittenton and their 2008 and 2010 first-round draft picks to the Griz for Pau Gasol.
Just thought you might like to know…
February 1st, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Hobnarly said …
Hey Charger only winning teams like to fondly remember the past. You know like the teams that have won a superbowl or three. Like the Raiders, Cowboys, Packers and Steelers. You know real legacy teams.
Legacy teams last 28 years
Pitt 1-1 in SB
Dall 3-0 in SB hasnt won a playoff game in 11 years.
GB 1-1 in SB
Raiders 2-1
Looks like they are struggling to keep up with Al.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Success breeds success… well Erratic owner breeds erratic fans. I mean always looking for a malcontent which is what Johnson is to save the team. How about a new D-coordinator and some real FULL TIME DT & DE that would be a start.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:37 pm
I wouldn’t mind OchoCinco….but I saw on another blog that the Lions are putting Roy Williams on the block.
…….above someone mentioned Shaun Rogers as well.
That’s a trade I could see working with #’s 30, 91, 27, 34,….there is all kinds of ways a deal could happen with the Lions…..maybe get a 3rd from ‘em too?
(I can dream!!)
I BEEN IN FROM JUMP.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Marley, I’m glad the spotlight is back on the NFL for spygate, but Arlen Specter has no right to be talking about cover-ups(see Magic Bullet Theory)
February 1st, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Another high priority is trying to find a replacement for Barry Sims at LT. JaMarcus getting drilled on his blind side against SD hopefully stuck a fork in Sims’ Raider career. You can’t have your $60 million future being protected by the WORST left tackle in the NFL.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:40 pm
With Chad we can be on the up-n-up
February 1st, 2008 at 2:43 pm
85 and his act this year were a little to MOSS like.
I believe he has skills but I wonder if he will be MOSS like in the Locker Room as well.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Native -
Did anyone on here say “First things first we need to get Chad Johson in the Silver and Black”. Nope. All of the Raiders needs have been covered on this blog including DLine and safety help among many others. The Chad Johnson talk is just that.
You might want to settle down a bit. When you call Raider fans erratic you don’t shine a very good light on yourself. I’m just saying…
February 1st, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Sorry mom, but steelers have 5 rings. I was referring to the whole legacy
February 1st, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Gentleman, and ladies, the word is that all FA’s wish to sign with the Raiders in order to propel them back into prominence. Everyone outside of Bristol, Connecticut is sick to death of Tuck Bundchen. The conspiracy turns in favor of the Nation.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Chad will get the ball. Jamarcus is a quarterback unlike walter and brooks.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:48 pm
We want the Raiders to win so bad we come short of selling our souls to the devil. Maybe AL has.?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I said the past 28 years.
Go back ten years and we have been to a SB.
Dallas and GB have not
My point is why cant the legacy teams make the playoffs and SB every other year as you expect Al to?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Native, you think the governing body of the NFL hasn’t?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Slapper…
Lol, I hear you, how embarrasing is it then that Specter of all people is calling you out?.
Takes one to know one, don´t they say something like that?.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:56 pm
because I am not a fan of those teams
February 1st, 2008 at 2:56 pm
I haven’t read about any Left Tackles worth a damn as either FA or draftee. Jake Long seemed a slow-footed behemoth when I saw him play.
February 1st, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Wow. Where did that lame Discharge fan go??? Here’s a lesson for everyone here. He was on his own site, and he was the only one there. It was like echoing in a cave. How’s about them Dischargersssssssssssssss? Hellooooooooooooooo. Anyone hereeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee? That’s why he came here. To find someone. Anyone. Of course he found us, you know why???? Because We’re here. And we’re not going anywhere. And we stand our ground. We stand and fight.
I’m serious when I say this. The Dischargers were one game from the Super Bowl and now their “fans” are out surfing, or surfing for porn. Us, we’re 4-12 and we’re all here debating how to get this team better. That’s why this is the greatest fan base in the world, and why we are gonna get better.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:06 pm
On this site at any given time are people from rural Kansas, The UK, Texas, Montana, Denmark, Dakota , Florida,Mexico, New York… on and on… pity the poor boy in SD where there is no fan base whatsoever.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:07 pm
HEY JERRY.. IF WE [ RAIDER FANS ] DIDN’T HAVE HATERS…WE WOULD’NT BE IN THE NEWS SO MUCH. THANKS JERRY.. KEEP IT GOING.
BAY LUV / HATE : ]
MR. SNAKE
February 1st, 2008 at 3:11 pm
I THINK LANE IS GOING TO BE A GOOD COACH BUT WHAT’S THE DEAL WE WERE
4 -12 AND EVEN LANE KNOWS THAT NOT A GOOD LOOK. LETS WAIT AND SEE HOW IT PLAYS OUT WITH THE QB AND THE DEFENSE. HUGGY BEAR IS THE RB THAT CAN GET US OVER THE TOP BUT WE NEED ANOTHER [ BUSH MAYBE ] ALSO ANOTHER TE.
BAY LUV,
MR. SNAKE
February 1st, 2008 at 3:13 pm
M
Dont forget Scottland…
By the way, Where is Scottish Raider?….
I´m very concerned he has crossed the atlantic and is now in American soil looking to extract his own brand of justice on Al Davis…I have always pictured him as Willie from The Simpsons.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Get off of C. Johnson’s Johnson.Hahahahahahahahahahahaha
oakgirl
February 1st, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Marley, when I mentioned the UK I was including Scottish Raider and since I don’t know where Hobs Gnarly is located I decided to use an ecompassing designation. No slight intended ye Scotsman.
He could indeed be Willie.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:20 pm
LT wussied his way out of a shot at the Big Game.
At least he didn’t cry this year, like after last year they lost to the Patsies. Chargers Suck. LT is Soft.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Hey Underdog do you know what your Chargers all time winning percentage is?
w l t %
343 354 11 .492
They have an all time losing record.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:21 pm
M,
I’m in England Molesworth RAF to be exact
February 1st, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Haven’t from any of the Down Unders in a long time either. Perhaps they got disinterested by the childishness which inhabited this site some time ago. Or they’re at the beach enjoying voluptuous summertime views.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:22 pm
So this Roll fella has spent the last 2 years keeping Ike Bruce, Marc Bulger, Torry Holt, S. Jackson, L. Little, Orlando Pace and his OL mates healthy?.
Allright.
(sigh)
February 1st, 2008 at 3:22 pm
they raise a lot of sheep in Montana…..look for Scottish there first.
February 1st, 2008 at 3:23 pm
I’m not English, heck no from the good ole USA. I wish I could say from somew