The Walker contract
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Thursday, March 6th, 2008 at 10:46 am in Oakland Raiders.
Just got a look at the actual contract figures for wide receiver Javon Walker.
Turns out the figures given to me Wednesday by the club ($6 million to sign, $5 million salary in each of the next two seasons) were in error.
Walker actually got $11 million to sign and has salaries of $1 million in 2008, $4 million in 2009, $6 million in 2010, $8 million in 2011 and $10 million in 2012 and 2013.
There is also a $5 million roster bonus which at the Raiders option to be picked up in 2009. It is in essence a three-year, $27 million contract, or a four-year, $35 million deal.
The same Raiders official who gave me the numbers Wednesday confirmed the error Thursday. He was relaying information given to him by someone else and had not actually seen the contract numbers.
So what’s to make of all this?
Are the Raiders overly sensitive to the perception that they’re overpaying to the point where they’d float false information? Doubtful, because the real numbers always bubble to the surface eventually.
Bottom line _ they were desperate for a play-making wide receiver to pair with JaMarcus Russell, thoroughly checked out Walker’s health (he’s had three knee surgeries) and rolled the dice with a monster contract.
If Walker catches 70-plus passes for 1,200 yards and gets to double figures in touchdowns, they’ll be taking bows. If Walker blows out his knee on Day 1 or becomes disenchanted with life in silver and black, the Raiders will take the heat.
Just as they have for the better part of the last five years.
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March 6th, 2008 at 10:48 am
fist
March 6th, 2008 at 10:50 am
this will backfire on he donkeys
March 6th, 2008 at 10:52 am
RaiderTW Says:
March 6th, 2008 at 6:23 am
“Is it true Oakglenn sent MR over the cliff & he had a nervous breakdown on Jerry’s blog?”
RaiderTW -
Actually MaddenRaider was sent over the cliff by Acey40deuce. After Acey exposed MR as a fraud, for the SECOND TIME IN THE SAME DAY, MR snapped and completely lost it. It was hilarious. Unfortunately Oakglenn received the brunt of his frustrations for being exposed as a fraud. Probably because there was no disputing what Acey had proven. He got Aced Out as Acey said. MR hasn’t been seen since.
I for one hope that Kool Kell finally caught up with MR and dealt with him appropriately. Either that or he ran into Mosh Pit. That dood is crazy as hell.
March 6th, 2008 at 10:55 am
I think Kiffins staying. Why would so many guys be on board without knowing the coaching situation? I’m sure thats one of the first questions they asked during the contract talks.
March 6th, 2008 at 10:55 am
here’s hoping when they ‘did their research’ on those knees, that this involved seeing the guy run routes, cut, timed drills, etc…. for that kind of cash, i’m guessing all of the above were involved…
March 6th, 2008 at 10:56 am
a nice ‘upside’ of this contract is that Brandon Marshall with the Broncos will be clamouring for this same kind of money given that he looked better than Walker on most Sundays…
March 6th, 2008 at 11:00 am
I dont even think T.Kelly or J. Walker can believe the Raiders paid them that much…
March 6th, 2008 at 11:01 am
9mm a yr for a WR coming off an injury is crazy money..
March 6th, 2008 at 11:02 am
If the CBA is not renewed all this cap number stuff is cannonfodder.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:04 am
Al knows he has maybe 10 years left at most to get back to repectability and leave the franchise in good shape, al least he is trying.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:08 am
I really like the fact Jevon has a beef with The Rat this should play out in Oaklands favor. I want to see the look on Rat Face when Walker is catching passes from Russell blind folded like he was doing with Cutler before the fued started.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:08 am
Do you think they dont know the media is talking sh!t about them they will be out to prove those punks wrong and play hard to say they are worth the money
March 6th, 2008 at 11:12 am
Al Davis has always been a players owner he takes care of them as long as they are loyal to him.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Forget that, we are starting to look like the
NEW YORK KNICKS of the nfl….this is crazy…
March 6th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Good moves or bad moves, at least you can’t say Al isn’t trying. With all the drama and these moves I can’t quite recall another offseason quite like this one, and to think the draft is yet to come.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:20 am
So based on the numbers given, Walker got $11M to sign and only $1M in base salary for this year? So in essence $12M for one season and if he doesn’t pan out they can cut him…seems like a bit costly to me.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Lets get off the contract talk.
Jerry Porter got just as much money and has not had a 100 yard season.
Walker makes Porter look like a little girl.
I love your blog Jerry and I think your a straight guy, but here is my bone.
1) We won’t get the free agents to come to oakland because we are a “joke.” to the NFL.
so my inclination is to think maybe you and the media (espn, NFL net.) are pushing the contract talk to justify that free agents are actually signing here….
maybe just maybe they want to play for the Raiders and some can not stand that.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:27 am
*1000* yard season.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:31 am
tom flores Says:
March 6th, 2008 at 11:23 am
Raider TW
You are smoking crack if you think Chris LOng drops to number 4…not gonna happen…
— I’ve never smoked crack but I saw in the news Moses did hallucinogens.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:35 am
“I think you are a straight guy,but here is my bone”. Ok now that’s funny I don’t care who ya are
March 6th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Jerry wrote yesterday that JWalker will get $6mil to sign, $5mil the next season & the same the next. IF he lasts that long. Why is everyone acting like it’s THEIR money? Porter getting almost the same money is INSANE!!!
March 6th, 2008 at 11:40 am
The playoff game against Cinn was the zenith of the L.A. experience for the Raiders. Sold out Coliseum on a smog free 80 degree day in February. Great D line anchored by Long, RB’s Allen and Jackson, SB Jeff(from the Giants)QB, all downhill after that. Stadium arguments, broken promises, Irwindale (AD got to keep the $5mil deposit) Carson, Hollywood Park and LA Coliseum Commission. At least Walter O’Malley knew to get the deal in writing when dealing with L.A. politicos. All blamed on AD but he was right……
March 6th, 2008 at 11:44 am
Post #14 you are so right…….as sad as I am about it.
March 6th, 2008 at 11:47 am
jh Says:
March 6th, 2008 at 11:35 am
“I think you are a straight guy,but here is my bone”. Ok now that’s funny I don’t care who ya are
March 6th, 2008 at 11:48 am
Sorry, I just got caught up in the moment like it was yesterday, but it was January 13, 1991 that Bo got hurt.
BO KNOWS
March 6th, 2008 at 11:57 am
from espn.com
All-American Football League may scrap season for lack of funds
March 6th, 2008 at 11:59 am
I love the fact the raiders are trying to improve the team and pick up players that fill needs. Too much money?? SO what, its not ours or the medias. Al Davis is trying to bring us back to respectibility and is willing to pay for it. I love it. Walker is a risk due to his knees, but if he works out, Al is a genius. If it doesnt, it doesnt. Getting Wilson, Harris, Walker, resigning Fargas and Kelly and keeping Rhodes are all strong moves. THe Raiders are not just sitting back anddoing nothing. Players are signing here. Enjoy the activity, the opposite would be worse.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
All the Raiders need to do to be successful at this point is to pick up two good linemen in the first two rounds of the draft.
QB - vastly improved with JR
DL - improved with first round pick
OL - improved with second round pick
Secondary - improved with new safety
Running Game - improved with Michael Bush, Ech, etc.
Wide receivers - still a question mark
March 6th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Even though we dont really need a running back, due to a large amount of depth there, I really think the Raiders should pick up Chris Johnson out of ECU in the second round. The kid is the prototype scatback, which is what this offense is lacking. He can catch the ball extremely well and even play in the slot as a reciever, and he would be the impact kick returner we have been looking for. He is blazing fast, as evidenced by his 40 time, and real elusive. He can be our next Charlie Garner or Napolean Kaufman.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
The only reason I would get nitpicky about these contracts is if it prevents us from signing our draft picks or retaining our players down the road. The way the cap is rising year to year, it doesn’t look like that will be an issue anyway.
As for the Knicks, we would have to sign out-of-work guys like Keyshawn, then create a logjam at certain positions, have some type of sexual harassment case, bench/suspend our QB, trade away our first-rounders for some fat guy who can’t tackle, etc… I know it’s been rough for us the last couple years, but we’re nowhere near Knick territory.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
My guess? They will take the heat. Prove me wrong, Javon.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Takeo Spikes just got cut from the Eagles? Might be a fit…
March 6th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
There is huge difference between smart spending and dumb spending. I disagree with “smonty25″ it is our money!!!!! Im a season ticket holder, i buy raider gear….so yes im very upset about this over spending…look we are paying top3 money for players that are not in top of 20 of their positions…shyt they both are coming off knee issues to make matters worst….
March 6th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
—”Eagles released LB Takeo Spikes.
This is a sudden change from their previous public stance that Spikes would return. The former Bengal and Bill is recovering from torn rotator cuff surgery and has been an average player since tearing his Achilles a few years back. Omar Gaither could move to the outside now.
Mar. 6 - 3:08 p.m. ET”—
Well I would like us to atleast invite him, for a look. I loved him when he played for the bills
March 6th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Hey Jerry good thing you didnt use a “source” on this one. Being that you saw it with your own eyes makes it believable. But Im with everyone else who gives a shannarats hairy ass how much money Al spends. Poor Al is damned if he does, and damned if he doesnt. Let him bring the talent in, and Let Loftkin coach them. Then we will see what we got.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
It’s Lofton, Pendejo….lol….sorry man, I had to.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
oh i get it….my bad….looks like i’m the pendejo…lol.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
AL Davis is doing whatever it takes to disprove the allegations that he is a cheap owner and that is the reason for our slide…obviously its poor coaching and lackluster drafts that have killed us in the past…now to correct all this Al has to pay big bucks to turn it all around. Whether it be in the media or his loyal fans…Al Davis has been crucified the past few years and second guessed at every turn…I think once and for all it’s time to admit that Al Davis has not lost his mind…and that winning is the only thing he does still care about…who cares what everyone else says…AL Davis is never walking away or giving up on his beloved Raiders…whether we want him to, or not…I think he has proven he is capable of making the moves required to right the ship…now it’s up to the players and coaches to keep up their end of the bargain !!!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I was comparing the raiders and knicks in regards to over paying players, win and loses. I think you get my point… We are still paying Art Shell…
March 6th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Another player coming of an injury, he’s right up our alley…Quick Al, sign him!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
JERRY,
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE ADDRESS IF COOPER CARLISLE IS UNDER CONTRACT OR NOT AND THE POSSIBILITY OF RESIGNING CHRIS CAR, EKIJUIBA, AND JARROD COOPER.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
it should be Kiffton and not Loftkin =)
March 6th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Post #27…Smonty…You are ABSOLUTELY CORRECT. It aint my money, your money, nor anyone else’s money..except for those who choose to pay to see a bad product. Let Al spend it. If it doesnt work out so what. As for Post #33, PlayBoy…How can you talk about being wise with spending when you are the one donating to Al Davis for his bad product. I go to games too but only when there is a steal of a deal on stubhub. Dude, wake up. At your work, do you get rewarded for a bad job like the Raiders do….No….dont spend another dime on the Raiders until you see a better product Bro. They make enough from TV ads.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Good news… Takeo spikez iz now a free agent nd we are in need of an olb dat haz veteran leadership so hê kan téách our young line backers
March 6th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Say Al, at least you don’t have to worry about the clown any more.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
tickets is the smallest income group a franchise has..
March 6th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
hey oak, someone else will get that designation soon enough…lol.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Tom Flores
Right on the old button. This off season, he proves once again he has it one last time.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
don’t need Takeo…
don’t want Takeo…
want Curtis Lofton !!!
need Curtis Lofton !!!
so sayeth myself.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Ok, Jerry, you starting to throw out a lot of “what IF” scenarios these days, punctuated by a general statement (see today’s article). Can you just stick to the facts and give your thoughts without trying to make a point?? You’re staring to sound like Kawakami…Jerry, you’re better than this.
Javon Walker potentially makes a GREAT target for JaMarcus. With Walker as a primary target, Russell will finally be able to showcase his rocket-blaster arm that we have yet to see in game action!!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Absolutely terrifying that someone would not only leak contract info to you, but BAD info to you ….. If San Diego, Denver of KC ran their clubs this way I would have a field day. Who called you? The water boy (hopefully) or someone in personnel (God save the Raiders)?!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
hey EXLAX, has what…a case of the runs?
March 6th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Something tells me Quag, you’re right.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Who cares about Javon Walkers salary numbers….I knew the contract was going to be a crafty salary cap deal…with all the salaries back loaded and accelerated…in later years. All the “big” money is in a lump sum bonus…to save salary cap room over the early years…after that we are rolling the dice that the salary cap will be lifted and if it isn’t we can cut him when we have the players over the next two to three drafts to strengthen that position.
The signing bonus is what got him here…and away from all the other teams bidding up the deal…and if this does not encourage other free agents to drop by to see what’s happening here in Oakland, than they are huge fools…plain and simple.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
The510, it might have been Tommy Trojan but don’t ask.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
I was just taking a look at the Jerry Porter deal …as much info as foxsports gave. He signed 6years at $30mm - $10mm guaranteed.
Based on Jerry’s numbers above Walker bascially got $11mm gauranteed or $16mm if you include the 1st year’s salary number.
Now we all know that when healthy Walker has been leaps and bounds more productive than JP. So even if you think Walker got paid too much that seems to be close to the going rate for a damn good FA WR (comparing JPs deal to Walkers and considering Walker is better).
March 6th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
La Milicia Negra, Like my dad always said Once a Pendejo, alway a Pendejo, of course he was refering to me…lol. But we have to be pendejos to tolerate all the raider maddness.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Cap numbers get squeezed throughout the year. I really believe the front office knows how to take care of the players they want, including upcoming draft picks.
Tim Brown pointed that out to Jerry McD previously, how a team can keep any free agent they truly want. That should include minding a budget with room for the kids.
I wonder if some of the funny money, mixed with picks and players, might mean a trade up for Chris Long.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
I just want to WIN BABY !!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Terrapin, Jerry Porter???? Never heard of the guy. Was he on the Raiders?
March 6th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Bill
didn’t Cooper Carlisle sign a two year deal last year when we picked him up in FA ??? I will look for you but one o fthose guys did…either he or Cornell Green and since Cornel Green just resigned I have a feeling that Cooper Carlisle was a 2 year deal last year…I realize that Newberry signed a one year deal and that everyone thinks we should resign him…but we should be thinking that we have enough young centers and that one of them NEEDS to step up this year…or we find after the draft…unless Newberry decides to come back at the same price/terms as last year, why bother ???
March 6th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
I believe Carlisle had a players option to return this year, which he opted out of making him a free agent.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Cooper Carlisle signed a 2 year 4.4M contract…found on roto world
March 6th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
that was dated 4 /13 /2007
March 6th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Plus you guy know the deals gonna be restructed in year 3 unless he produces unworldly numbers …and if he does that still good for us and he deserves his pay.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
plaboi, kelly and walker are both in the top 20 at there positions, and gibril is in the top 10, can you name 20 WRs better than walker and 20 DTs better than kelly, cause i can’t, and i can name at least 40-50 players on every team in the NFL off the top of my head
March 6th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Jerry said:
The rest of the deal is heavily backloaded with money Walker won’t see unless he approaches the 89 receptions, 1,392 yards and 12 touchdowns compiled in Green Bay in 2004.
I for one would like him to get every penny.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Carlise didn’t opt out of anything. He will be a Raider in ‘08.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
By the way Jerry probably got his facts from realfootball365 since they are still reporting the numbers Jerry used previously when he gave us Walkers contract numbers….or… somebody is having fun in Alameda with the media…
March 6th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
now, jordan must be cut and newberry must resign
March 6th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
@ #43 I wouldnt go as far as to say im throwing my money away… im not fickle raider fan, a lot of raider fans still support the raiders, thats why raiders gear is alwayz among the top selling in the league…. not im not sure how much that goes towards salaries, but let me clear up my stance, its the players we signed, not the amount…we woulda done better with the that amount of money..that kelly deal might be the alltime worst…
March 6th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
F**k Al Davis~! That old rotten bastard. This signing of Walker is going to backfire on US! This was a stupid sign. He’s had THREE MAJOR KNEE sugeries. The guy is washed up and he is DONE. ANd yet, that old son of a b**tch Al Davis pays him the money…just because he wants players from his rival division? What an old sick bastard. He’s lost his mind. I can not wait for the day where he is GONE to hell!
March 6th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
RaiderTW
I second that…
March 6th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
From Mel Kiper of ESPN…
“FromA few notes from my second first-round projection for April’s NFL draft:
• The most notable change between my initial first-round projection and this one is that I have Virginia defensive end Chris Long going No. 1 overall to the Miami Dolphins. This is based on discussions with various NFL sources; however, Boston College QB Matt Ryan is still a distinct possibility to be the first pick. If Ryan goes No. 1 overall, then Long would go No. 2 to St. Louis, and Atlanta would take DT Glenn Dorsey with the third pick. The sources with whom I have spoken have no concerns about Dorsey’s medical history.”
*****
Love him or hate him, football clubs do talk to him…so… let the speculation begin…does it look like we take Chris Long???
Again, for the record, I believe we should take Dorsey or Ellis, but with Kiper believing that the Falcons will take Dorsey, and with Kelly’s recent resigning, it looks like Chris Long has moved into the driver’s seat…
McFadden? After signing Fargas AND Rhodes, does anyone really still think that he’s going to be our 1st round pick?
Still…our owner IS Al Davis, and Al is nothing but unpredictable…
March 6th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
for those who didnt want berrian, didn’t want stallworth, don’t want walker, don’t want kelly, don’t want kwami, why don’t you tell us WHAT YOU DO WANT, and HOW YOU THINK THIS TEAM WILL IMPROVE without being ACTIVE IN THE OFFSEASON
March 6th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Wow, Rayden…
Well, we all know that Crazy Al prefers “Big Name” players vs. no-name guys (unless there is potential to convert positions as a project!)
Hopefully, Javon has 2-3 decent years left in his body. I just hope he can handle the heat from JaMarcus’ passes!!
March 6th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
@ #66 dawg, walker hasnt been in top20 in any major Wr statistics since 2004, and kelly hasnt ever…
( cite source….nfl.com)
March 6th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
the sad part is Coach Lofton is still THE BEST WR ON THE TEAM…WOW..!!!!!!!!!!
March 6th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
#78…LOL!
March 6th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
I think we have done a good job thus far in improving our team or at least making an effort to improve. If Javon Walker is healthy than yes he is better than any of the other wideouts we could have picked up. If hes not healthy then we made a mistake but we really a thin at wideout so we had to do something. This is why I am not upset at the move. We had to do something and Im pleased we did. The gibril wislon signing I think will vastly improve out secondary. It provides us immediately with someone who can tackle. It also allows us to move huff. That being said people are seriously going to try and stuff the run down our throats. If we can get the pieces in place to stop the run than I think our defense would be scary. Just heard Takeo Spikes got released from the eagles. I think we should at least bring him in for a visit. He would provide immediate leadership at the linebacker position and at one point in time he was a damn good linebacker. I think hes at least worth a look. If he could be signed on the cheap than hes at least worth a shot
March 6th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
What an embarrassment this organization is.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
I would give the moves so far a B+
Given the free agent landscape & our needs, I think these are the best moves Lane & Al could have made.
The health of Kelly, Fargas and Jackson will obviously play a HUGE role in their success or lack thereof.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Jackson?
March 6th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Pretty interesting, the speed thing that someone posted. Has the top 25 current NFL players and draft prospects in the 40 yard dash at each position. Like the poster said (sorry, can’t find the post again to give proper credit), many Raiders are on it.
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/combineleaders.php?genpos=RB&sortorder=comforty&order=ASC
QB: #12 Ronald Curry 4.59 (obviously not a QB anymore but we were the only team enamored enough with his athleticism to draft him to play a speed position)
RB: #3 Justin Fargas 4.35 (#1 and #2 are in this year’s draft class BTW)
FB: #8 Justin Griffith 4.59 (not drafted by the Raiders though)
C: #25 Jake Grove 5.16
OT: #8 Robert Gallery 4.98 (which would rank him #3 among OGs), #18 Paul McQuistan 5.07
OLB: #2 Thomas Howard 4.42, #13 Robert Thomas 4.51 (not drafted by the Raiders though)
CB: #1 Stanford Routt 4.29, #2 Fabian Washington 4.29
FS: #16 Stuart Schweigert 4.47
SS Michael Huff #1 (4.34, would rank him as #1 at FS), Gibril Wilson #17 (4.47)
Other notables:
QB Josh McCown #13 (4.59)
TE Doug Jolley #9 (4.60)
WR Carlos Francis #9 (4.33)
WR Ken-Yon Rambo #11 (4.34)
DE Shurron Pierson #11 (4.63)
ILB Cody Spencer #18 (4.65)
OLB Napoleon Harris #21 (4.55, would rank him as #7 at ILB)
FS Rashad Baker #23 (4.50)
WR Randy Moss #? (not listed)
I would say, based on this data, look for us to add one of the fastest WRs in the draft, whether or not he is any good. We’ve had a ton of speed WRs but currently don’t have any.
I also wouldn’t be surprised if we took RB Chris Johnson (4.24) in round 2, or even if we were dumb enough to take McFadden in round 1.
Here are the top 5 fastest WRs in terms of 40 time in this year’s draft. Get to know these guys, because they may well be Raiders soon!
1. DeSean Jackson, Cal (4.35)
2. Andrew Caldwell, Florida (4.37)
3. Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State (4.37)
4. Will Franklin, Missouri (4.37)
5. Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech (4.39)
Royal BTW also benched 24 reps, tops among WRs. There you go Al.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Takeo Spikes…hmmm, well he would be an improvement over Sam “The Invisible Man” Williams…I agree Noshadowking…if the price is right…
March 6th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Walker, not Jackson. My bad.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
jlhj is a speed WR
March 6th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
1. I am telling you Chris Johnson is gonna be a raider. He is the most versatile offensive weapon in the draft.
2. I read on Raidernews someone who thought that Cooper Carlisle would take over at Left Tackle and Kwame Harris would take over as gaurd, anyone have any information on the feasability of that move, it would make sense that we got rid of sims.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Wow. All I can say guys is, Wow.
Just went over yesterday’s comments.
If you guys wanted to get rid of me, you found a way to do it. Congratulations.
Being the go to Al “basher” for everyone to beat up on is something I could take. But even remotely participating in any web chat where people are openly wishing for the death of all people of middle eastern descent is something I can not do.
Frankly, I’m surprised that Nolan, who’s expressed that he’s leaving for deployment, didn’t show a little bit of class, step in and inform some of the racist garbage here that the United States military is not into racial cleansing. But unfortunately, he chimed in with some slurs of his own. I don’t want to believe these stories of troop misconduct that keep hitting the news, but when we have a military member right in our group joining in a racist pow wow, it just makes the stench even worse.
What an ugly day for the Raider Nation. I can only hope now that all of you guys were just fans of other teams, trolling. But it doesn’t look like it. The conversation was very sincere, and some of the names were names I’ve seen here for a while.
Shame on all of you that participated in that mud bath, and you know who you are. Not only do I not consider you Americans, heck, I don’t consider you Raider fans, either. Not the team that pride’s itself on having the most diverse fan base in all of sports…
Back to things Raiders…
Jerry, what a shock the team fed you false info. Remember, these are also the same people insisting that there is no problem between Al and Kiffin. Anyone with a brain knows better. Stay on them, Jerry. Al may have designed the uniforms, but he alone is not responsible for the team’s great years, and he wouldn’t have lasted long if the team didn’t win. He deserves to be scrutinized heavily until this team is a consistent winner again. Don’t give him or the organization an inch.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I origonally wanted McFadden, but I would be just as happy with C. Johnson in the second round. He can catch better than McFadden anyway, he played WR and RB in college, and he’s faster. It is rumored that McFadden ran a 4.27, but he actually ran a 4.33. C. Johnson on the other hand, ran an official 4.24, that’s the fastest time ever recorded at the combine. Al will pick him if he falls to us in the second. Now I kind of hope Jerry Jones does do a big trade with us for our pick.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
CorpRaider, I don’t know if I would say the organization is an embarrasment. We needed a #1 receiver and there wasn’t one available in the draft. So we got one. Essentially we flipped Porter for Javon and it cost us $1mm. Maybe someone could look this up, but I’ll bet Javon Walker has more TD receptions in our own yard than Jerry Porter. This was REALLY a no brainer.
We needed a bona fide safety and got a World Champion. We rewarded one of our own, an undrafted guy who came in, worked his AAASSSSSSS off, and became a solid player at two positions. I don’t call that an embarrassment, I call that class.
Lastly we cut our LT who was originally undrafted and signed a former first rounder, ostensibly to compete for the position. I think we’re doing pretty well. Not tremendous, but pretty well.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Higgins is a speed WR but he’s not a super-speed WR. He ran a 4.48 and the NFL’s active top 25 (which somehow doesn’t include Moss… did he not run at the combine?) only goes as far as 4.37. Anyway I would agree that we drafted Higgins for his speed. Too bad he has not developed skills to go with it yet.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Al Davis always notices who runs the fastest 40 at the combine so you better believe Chris Johnson is on his radar. If Chris Carr gets signed by another team then we have to get Chris Johnson just for his return capabilities because he is gonna be better than devin hester.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
hester is quick as well as fast, johnson is a faster, smaller fargas, more speed, less power, about the same ability as far as COD
March 6th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Higgins has a lot to prove in ‘08!
March 6th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
johnson is real quick, he accelerates to full speed immediately, runs with his pads low, is extremely elusive and has great hands. Fargas is a track star, no hands, no moves, just straight-line speed.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Sorry guys, one quick sanity check.
WE ARE NOT GOING TO TAKE A RB IN THE 2ND ROUND.
We are almost certain to take an OT at No35. One of Baker, Nicks, Hills, Cousins or Cherilus. There are too many good OTs in this draft to pass up.
We will almost certainly take a DLineman in the first. Probably Ellis but maybe Dorsey, Gholston or, if he’s around, Chris Long.
The really interesting issues are:
1) Can we trade for a 3rd round pick, and how?
2) Where do we go in the 4th?
Javon Walker’s signing gives us options. But there is zero chance we will draft Johnson, or any other RB, in the 2nd.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Jerry
I just have to comment on your words of wisdom regarding the lack of AL Davis or Kiffin and media events following any of these triumphant FA signings…
1) The Raiders are sick and tired of the Media and the attacks made on coaches and ownership. Why waste any valuable time responding to false rumors that have all been started and perpetuated by the same media types calling for answers or responses to these ridiculous rumors !!!
2) The Raiders are very busy right now preparing more contracts and further negotiations for players with their respective agents as they continue the quest for a winner this year. The best and most important player signing is always the next one…
3) AL Davis would never steal the “thunder” of Brett Favre announcing his retirement, a player he has admired and respected for years.
4) None of these signings will compare to the draft picks we will be signing this spring/summer..so keep yo pants on, I am sure they will let you come into the facility in Alameda and see what’s going on once things have settled down…right now…busniess comes first…and sadly for you the media doesn’t have anything positive to add to our goals of signing as many top FAs as we can. Quite the opposite…you have severely handicapped our abilities with all the false rumor mongering…and I would say that was grounds for keeping our affairs hush hush until after they have been concluded.
JMHO
March 6th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
You know it would be nice if the Raiders.com site filled us in on news and things like:
- Russell’s offseason program
- Mario Henderson’s progress
- Anything related to Lane Kiffin
Instead, we get a bunch of nonsense on “Oren O’Neal goes back to school”
Raiders have the worst website in the NFL
March 6th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Tommy Trojan…well said on post #75…when you go 4-12, you really need to make moves…
Oakglenn and a few of the regulars made a good point; Al probably just said, “Okay, who is available that will make us better next year?” The coaches told him, the front office told him the salary cap figures, and then Al said, “Make the deal.” Now if the club doesn’t at least get to .500, he can now rightfully can whomever he wants.
Getting to .500 wasn’t / isn’t as hard as many would believe. The Lion game, the 1st Donkey game, the 1st Chef game, the Titan, Texan, Bear, Vike games–heck, even the Colt game–ALL WERE WINNABLE GAMES.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Jerry, if you don’t mind, from the blog of your colleague, Tim Kawakami (”dysfunction bonus.” LOL!):
“2:27 p.m. update: Great new info from Jerry Mac, who reports the Raiders clarified some of the dollars and the time-frame on the Walker deal–somebody in there must be upset at the reaction to the $$ paid. Obviously, a large portion the $55M total is back-loaded. That’s the way all of these deals are put together.
But even in the Raiders’ own clarification to JMac, it’s clear that they’re egregiously over-paying Walker for the short-term: If Walker’s cut after one season, he’ll be paid $11M for that one year. WHOA. If he’s cut after two seasons, it’s $16M for two years. That is not inexpensive, Raider Nation. That’s crazy money, even when the Raiders explain it themselves.
Last offseason, with the 49ers spending crazy drunken sailor money on free agents, the Raiders remained mostly quiet–a safety here, a back-up RB, that’s about it…
This year? Crazy Raiders! (49ers are somewhere in between this year.) For Al Davis, first came the monster deal to bring back DL Tommy Kelly, setting the bar for cash-out-of-pocket to a man who rarely gets into the QB pocket.
Then big guaranteed money to S Gibril Wilson.
Now… 6 years/55M for WR Javon Walker, who is injury prone, hasn’t been very productive except for one year, was beat out by Brandan Marshall then released by the Broncos, has complained his whole career about something or another… He gets $16M guaranteed.
Wow.
OK, I do understand that JaMarcus Russell needs targets and Walker, if healthy and happy, is better than anybody else the Raiders have. No question. Ronald Curry and TBA/TBA weren’t going to be a three-WR set to scare the Chargers.
And if the Raiders are going to add people, they’re going to have to pay the Dysfunction Bonus–their dysfunction adds 30% to 40% to deals, since players properly need to see the money if they’re going to end up in the wasteland.
It does cost the Raiders, though, in multiple ways. Al is trying to make the team better… It must pain him deep inside to know that he’s badly over-paying erratic players just to maintain a semblance of a competitive team on paper.
Jerry Porter should’ve worked out for the Raiders. He wanted to be anywhere in the world except in Oakland, however, and wasn’t very productive when he was a Raider, and left for short money just to be the hell out of there.
Players are supposed to want to be in Oakland. You’re not supposed to have to over-pay the middling ones to get their attention.
I’ll ask Al about all that the next time I see him.
Let’s do a quick rundown of some comparable WR contracts of guys who are slightly more accomplished than Walker:
* Bernard Berrian, left Chicago for Minnesota: 6 yrs/24M, $16M guaranteed. (Same guarantee, fewer years, lower average.)
* Jerry Porter, left the Raiders for Jacksonville: 3 yrs/15M, apparently $10M guaranteed. (Much less than Walker.)
* Donte’ Stallworth, left New England for Cleveland: 7 yrs/35M, apparently $10M guaranteed. (Much less than Walker.)
* Randy Moss….
Moss: Stayed with New England for 3 yrs/27M, $15M guaranteed. (That’s about the same average as Walker, less guaranteed. Moss is a pain, but he’s less of a pain than Walker, I’m thinking. Same deal–if you’re a malcontent heading to the Raiders, you become impossible. If you’re a malcontent heading to a good team, there’s a chance for you.)
–Other deals over the past few seasons…
* Marvin Harrison: 7 yrs/67M, $22M guaranteed. He deserves it, but now getting hurt.
* Wes Welker: 5 yrs/18.1M. Hmm. Welker’s one-third the player that Walker is? Getting paid like it.
http://www.mercextra.com/blogs/kawakami/2008/03/05/raiders-give-wr-javon-walker-an-ego-contract-al-davis-ego-i-think/
March 6th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
dont be so sure scottish, this is Al Davis we are talking about.
and now that you mention it Trojan, you know who reminds me of Justin Fargas.. McFadden. same build, almost identical 40-times, mcfadden just had a better o-line in college.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Yeah I agree I never go to Raiders.com for the news….
March 6th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
scottish raider
very fine logic…I say we may go LB in round 4 if everything else you have addressed comes to fruition…
If we trade or cut Jordan we may still pick up a RB or WR in round 4 because there will still be good ones there…and we may get a “compensatory pick” for our FA losses this year.
6 and 7 should be OT and C/G to keep the competition ongoing on our Oline.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
# ATLRaider Says:
March 6th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
You know it would be nice if the Raiders.com site filled us in on news and things like:
- Russell’s offseason program
- Mario Henderson’s progress
- Anything related to Lane Kiffin
Instead, we get a bunch of nonsense on “Oren O’Neal goes back to school”
Raiders have the worst website in the NFL
……….
ATL, Expecting anything from Raiders.com other than good cheerleader pics is asking a bit too much. It’s the mouth of the Raiders’ spin machine.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Right, we don’t draft an RB in the 2nd rd, we do it in the first, McFadden. That is what will shake out when both Longs are gone when we get to #4 and AD makes his pick.
March 6th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
guys we have, come back down to earth.
1) Fargas,Bush,Rhodes,Ech.
I agree we will not be drafting a RB in this years draft.
I love McFadden but I do not think we will draft him.
1) DT.
2) WR.
4) LT.
6/7) OLB
March 6th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
NICKATINA:
Fargas was also slowed by a broken leg and had trouble healing. Doctor’s actually had to broke the leg again so it would heal properly.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
I rarely go to raiders.com, normally just to confirm player signings.
They should have “Blogging with Jamarcus” or something more than what they have. Remember last years “Blogging with Stu”.
Smart move there…have your worst player highlighted on the website.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
The Q and A with Al Locosalle was a joke, too.
If the answer wasn’t favorable to Al and the organization, he would just say, “I’m not familiar with that.”.
That site is good for cheerleader pics, and nothing else. After all, the cheerleaders are about the only thing the Raiders do get right, anymore. There isn’t a shred of info at Raiders.com that you can’t get with a quick google news search.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I was just at Raiders.com and they still have Tyler Brayton listed on the Roster.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
madden raider, porter signed for $35 M and berrian for $42 M, and walker is far better than either of them, they are both high-end #2s while walker is a legit #1, and furthermore, a player’s asalary isn’t a reflection of how good they are, you know that as well as i do, welker was expected to be a slot, and turned out to be a decent #2, however, playing opposite moss, and with tom brady in an offense that calls for about 35 pass attempts a game is going to make a #2 quality WR look like a #1, walker is better than welker, welker just happens to be in the best situation of any WR, probably in NFL history, although he is still a good WR
March 6th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
McFadden makes no sense unless we have a Rivers/Eli swap deal set up.
DTs like Ellis and Dorsey don’t come around too often. DEs like Chris Long and Gholston are potentially huge upgrades. We just can’t pass this sort of talent up in favour of a RB. It makes no sense.
A trio of Fargas, Rhodes and Bush is plenty good enough in our system. And if Bush lives up to his 2006 potential - it is one of the strongest corp in the NFL.
McFadden is a complete luxury. Mendenhall and Jon Stewart are better long-term prospects and much better value - but we don’t need them.
Some mocks have Mike Hart still around at the top of the 4th. Now that would make some sense, but only if we trade Rhodes.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
The Raiders should take OT Jake Long at #4 and trade up to move back into the first round and select WR Desean Jackson.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Scottish I’ll take a crack at this. Good to hear your “voice” BTW.
I’m with you I don’t see us drafting a RB in the second round. I see either Sam Baker LT from USC, Lawrence Jackson DE USC or Trevor Laws DT Norte Dame, somewhere along those lines.
To get our third round pick back, we have to trade Andrew Walter. He’s the ONE roster spot, we don’t need, he has value, there’s an absolute DEARTH of QB talent not only in the draft, but in the league. I would think a 3rd rounder for that guy would be a complete no brainer for some team. Guys coming out like Brohm, Andre Woodworth have actually fallen in scouts estimation. For some team to pay a 3rd for the Pac-10 passing champ who broke Elways records, who seems healthy, is a complete no brainer.
Lastly, who do we take??? If we get a 3rd rounder probably someone like Steve Justice the Center out of Wake Forest, consensus best center in the nation, or Steve Slaton the RB from West Virginia, possibly Jordy Nelson WR Kansas State or Lavelle Hawkins WR Cal. In the fourth round, I like my guy Josh Johnson the QB out of Un of San Diego, or Duane Brown LT Va Tech, possibly Josh Barrett SS ASU.
So, you’re gonna go into camp with one QB??? That’s crazy. No. Trent Dilfer is gonna retire in a week, he would be perfect or Steve McNair to come in NOT PLAY, and mentor Jam. And we have Josh Johnson, who is MY GUY!!
March 6th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
OakGlenn,
I’m not referring to the off-season FA acquisitions and disposals. I am referring to the front office’s inability to disseminate accurate information. It speaks to the way the organization is run.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Anyone think the Raiders might be planning to put Cooper Carlisle at Left Tackle? Whether we draft a rookie or start Mario Henderson, it would be an unproven commodity protecting our biggest investment, since they cut Sims.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Maddenraider
thank you for reminding me how lucky I am to have Jerry writing up the Raiders rather than Tim K…
I think I would puke while reading such malicious crap everyday if I had to get my Raiders fix from Tim K…thank god I can talk to like minded fans here with an occasional insider dropping tidbits here and there
to satiate me while I wait for any news from behind the black curtain in Alameda…
March 6th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
THAT, corp, I can’t argue with ya. It’s just the way it is.
March 6th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Looks like we have a new thread, fellas!
March 6th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Tommy Trojan
all of Maddenraiders facts/salaries came as direct quotes from Tim Kawakamis’ article…
I just read it…those are his numbers which proves what a moron TIM K is…
March 6th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
MaddenRaider post 89:
I read this blog every day, i dont post frecuently, because im mexican (who lives in méxico), and my grammar its not very good.
Im a big, big, raider fan since i have 5 years old.
I agree with some of your post and disagree with other, (the same with all you guys, LMN, OAGLENN, ETC).
I believe some times you see everithing in one dimension
But you are totally right posting your shame about the conversation of yesterday.
That talks very good from you.
Peace
March 6th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
what it comes down to is this…..we paid walker the same amount that moss got from the patsies….27 mil for 3 years……….its worth it just so moss will want his contract renegotiated
March 6th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
in the new nfl mock draft they dont even have Sedrick Ellis, in the first round, if they are right, i love to see us drafting us C.Long or /v Gholston in the first, and Ellis in our second round
http://www.nfl.com/news/story;jsessionid=28F04633CEF9E69687F14EA2FC8CB283?id=09000d5d807016db&template=with-video&confirm=true
March 6th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Yup! Once again the Raiders have managed to mess up! Who pays that much for Walker!!! Total waste of Cash!! Thank goodness i don’t live in Oakland!! Walker was not even in the Pro Bowl this year!! What a joke!!
March 6th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Oakglenn…How you doing brother? Yeah, at least I won’t break my tv over doh doh the clown McNown.
Playboy…Ok I agree we could have spent the money on better players but you know what at least Walker and Wilson are proven products. What’s the best Berrian has ever done…nada…if you are going to sign a freeagent, then get someone who is proven. Kelly is not bad either…We’ve been paying him cheap so to some extent he is being rewarded for being loyal is my hunch. What’s wrogn with paying someone who is your best lineman on the team and you paid him minimum so far since you drafted him. At least he is not like Turd Sands.
March 6th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
He is valuable at full health. Depending on the extent to which his knee agrees, he is explosive and tough.
Few WR run the slant with abandon as he does. That takes attitude, something most of the WR crew lacked of late.
He and Curry are similar in their play style and upside, and in their injury histories.
March 6th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
I heard culpepper went for a visit in Tampa are the Raiders looking at bringing him back to be #2 QB?
March 6th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Nope
March 6th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
I heard today Walker passed all knee inquiries…and said knee was a non issue.
March 6th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Since the Raiders don’t care about signing injury prone players ( Kelly, Walker, Fargas) and still paying big bucks….if Dorsey is there at #4, it is etched in stone that he is the one.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:45 am
I still think its 1-2 mil. too much for this year, but not as bad as I thought. At first I thought it was a total of 16 mil. guarantee & salary was for this season.
Not bad
March 7th, 2008 at 8:06 am
What is up with our coach,if AL fires Kiffin, he ought to get down on the sidelines and do the job himself,,,I mean AL sits up there behind the scenes and tells everyone what to do, who to draft, what players should play,and plays that should be run..Then he fires and blames his head coach,,If Al takes over as head coach then after one year as been his doings, he will then fire himself, and let the Raiders start their turnaround for real with him out of the way..
A loyal fan since 1968
March 7th, 2008 at 10:08 am
far better pickup to get a healthy Walker than pay a non-chalant schizo like Porter
March 7th, 2008 at 10:14 am
Gholston should be our pick at #4 and then we should look at maybe getting the best DT who excels at stopping the run in round 2. Maybe even look at the best WR available as well….but I think there will be a plethora of WR’s to choose from in round 4 if we don’t get a 3rd rounder. The way to best improve the line is to get the most explosive, versatile and physical pass rusher in Gholston and then get the physically strong run stuffing specialist in round 2. Lawrence Jackson will not be there in round 2 IMO.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
walker is a major upgrade despite his injuries compared to porter.Porter is slow and i think he was with the raiders too long he needed to go to another team.Walker will have motivation because of his contract and because the donkeys cut him.And he actually gets 100yd reception games.
March 8th, 2008 at 5:23 am
Rocket powered receiver! Have you seen this guy? He makes Jerry Porter look like he can’t catch, oh yea, Jerry Porter can’t catch. Smart money says Walker will easily double and could possibly triple Porters numbers this year.
March 9th, 2008 at 9:15 am
Used to be guys wanted to play for the Raiders. Now, they will only play if we overpay. The price of dysfunction. This is what happens when the mad genius goes senile. They can sign all the free agents they want and it won’t matter. The Raiders will continue to lose until the old fart goes.
Just Sell, Baby!
March 9th, 2008 at 9:34 am
Walker was an a@@hole in Green Bay, he was an a@@hole in Denver and he’ll be an a@@hole in Oakland. He will be a very well paid a@@hole though.
March 9th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Gotta disagree with 73 and everyone else complaining about the raiders overspending on these guys. Yes, Kelly and Walker are being overpaid, but that doesnt make either of those signings bad moves. TK’s been a solid presence on the D-line, regardless of whether or not he was drafted.
And as for Walker, the only reason Brandon Marshall even got a CHANCE to shine last year was because Walker was out by week three. If anybody actually looked at his numbers he had to 100+ yd games in weeks 1 and 2, then blew out his knee again. A-hole or not, the guy’s solid and a helluva a lot better than Porter I’ll take Ronald Curry, Javon Walker, and hopefully a low round stud like Hawaii’s Davone Bess next year and see the Raiders as being 5 times better at wide reciever than last year. Think of it this way, WR won’t be a spot of need from now on, even if they don’t have the Cheatriot’s WR staff.
….face it guys, overpaying or not we should all be happy Al’s signing guys we NEED now and isn’t going with nobody’s like McClown, Mike Williams and Daunte last year. Oh, and I LOVE the Wilson signing. Leading tackler at safety? We NEED that on D.
March 12th, 2008 at 4:30 am
Even if Walker has no health issues at all, he is still not worth that money. Moss is signed for the same money over the next 3 years. Walker is 29, he is on his way down, not up. $10 mil a year for a 34 year WR?
March 12th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Like Jerry Mcdonald says, we’ll know in 2008 if this was a good move. If Walker scores 8 or more TDs and 1200 or more yards and we win, nobody in the Raider Nation will complain. If he gets hurt or acts like a Jerry Porter, the Raider Nation will call for Al’s scalp!
March 13th, 2008 at 6:16 am
Yeah, Amirebram, because Moss did so well here. The Walker signing is huge for the Raiders. We now have a stud WR (albeit with past injury problems) who actually WORKS. Yes, I know it’s not something we’re used to, but this guy comes to work, not mess around.