Kiffin Q&A
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Saturday, April 26th, 2008 at 2:02 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Lane Kiffin with the local media following the selection of Darren McFadden with the fourth pick of the draft:
Q: Was this just a matter of McFadden being too good to pass up?
Kiffin: That was definitely the case. I remember mentioning that running back wasn’t a need for us, and it wasn’t. We’re kind of piled there with a number of really good running backs and guys coming back, including Michael Bush, who we really don’t know enough about yet. It was not a need but it became a situation … speaking for myself, I knew months ago that this was the guy that we had to have and we had to figure out a way to get him. Hopefully, he was going to fall to us. We lost the coin toss and moved to four and that scared me a little bit there. Fortunately, he was still available and in the end we got everybody on the same page. We’re all really excited.
Q: Any chance of trading McFadden for additional picks?
Kiffin: No, there’s no chance of that. There was too much work that went into this. We’re so fortunate for him to fall to us the way he did. There was even at one point, there was even a conversation where we were even thinking of going up to get him. At one point, where we thought somebody else was going to go up and get him, we were going to try to beat them. Fortunately, the information we ended up with was accurate that he would be there and it worked out perfect.
Q: Can he be used like Reggie Bush?
Kiffin: Yeah, he does have a lot of similarities to Reggie because he is a dynamic pass-catcher as well. Obviously, the speed and acceleration. You can use him outside. When you talk about guys who can catch the ball, he’s one of those guys that can do it out of the backfield but he can also do it outside. There’s a lot of options to explore. But at the same time, learning from when we first got Reggie, and even as you watched New Orleans when Reggie first got there, you don’t want to do too much right away with him because you want him to master some things first before you try to put too much on him. So, we’ll monitor that as well before we throw everything at him.
Q: Was there heavy trade talk from teams trying to beat you to McFadden?
Kiffin: Not necessarily. I think more teams, my guess is, were after Dorsey right there because there’s more teams that had a need for a defensive tackle and a player like Dorsey so there was at least one deal that we had in place if Darren wasn’t there, we were going to go back. But once he was there, no one jumped us to get him or someone else to take him so then it became easy. We were prepared to go back if he was not there if he would have got taken right before us.
Q: Tough to pass on Dorsey?
Kiffin: It wasn’t only because the position. As you look at Glenn, he’s going to be a great three-technique in this league. To take a guy fourth overall and put him at nose with Tommy Kelly already there at three-technique just doesn’t make very much sense to do. To pay a guy what you’re going to pay a guy in the fourth slot and move him to nose, which isn’t even his natural position, it’s just too hard of a switch to do. Glenn’s a great player. I actually was hoping he wasn’t going right after us so we’ve got to play him twice a year. I was hoping he’d go somewhere else. It just didn’t make sense.
Q: Could you still add picks?
Kiffin: There’s a possibility of that. That’s going to be more watching the draft and how it goes. There’s a couple players where we’ve said at a certain point if they’re there at this pick then we’re going to have to look at giving away something next year to go get them. It will be more about how the board goes than just trading up to get another pick. We’re
not just going to get another pick to get one today. It has to be one of these few guys that we have targeted who we think can really help our team.
Q: Do you envision him in two-back system sharing the role like Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister in New Orleans?
Kiffin: There’s too many variables to know that right now. We’ll look at a number of things. The same things that we did with Reggie and what they ended up doing in New Orleans. One of those things will be playing him
with Justin or the other back at the same time in the same backfield, as well as possibly playing him outside as a receiver at times too. The last thing we want to do and I feel fortunate having learned this with Reggie his first year there and even as you talk to New Orleans with what Sean (Payton) went through with Reggie you get so excited about these guys and you start doing all these things with them and they don’t get really good at anything. The last thing we want to do is do too much where he’s not becoming a great running back back there in the tailback position. What else can we look at? But we want to make sure we use him there first and we don’t put him in a situation where he’s not developing there.
Q: Did you look into his character issues?
Kiffin: Here’s the first thing on Darren. I can’t find a person who will tell me that when walks in the building until the time that he leaves they’ve ever had any type of issue, whether that’s been weight room issue or the way that he practices or his relationships with coaches. This is a guy who really loves football and is passionate about football and is passionate in the way he prepares for it. The way that he works out for it and the way he goes about it on game day as well. That was the first
thing to look at. Then you look at the off-field issues and there are some things there. They’ve been based on other people’s actions that have brought him into them. What was very important to me the first time I sat down with him, I wanted to know was he going to make excuses for them or was he going to be accountable for them. And he says, ‘Those are situations that I should have made a better decision. I’ve learned from them now and I am going to make better decisions now.’ As opposed to, ‘This is why I did it because I had to protect my brother or whatever the situation is. He realizes that and we had another conversation this morning about that myself and Darren again just to make sure. ‘Darren, if you’re there when we go, I need this, this and this. And you need to understand this is how you need to be.’ He’s right on the same page and he understands it as well.
Q: How good can the Raiders be on offense?
Kiffin: As I talked about the other day, that’s going to be our job to put these personalities and different type of players together. This isn’t just where we’ve added one guy at a certain spot. We’re going to have possibly a number of new starters on our team, especially on offense. We have to get these guys together and get them gelling together and working together. That’s why this offseason is going to be so important and it’s so important for our guys to be in here right now, our newer guys working with the coaches as well as our guys coming into their second season as well. Have we increased expectations? Yes, if that’s what you really wanted to know. We’ve increased our expectations on offense with our group a lot and we’ve added a lot of speed with Javon and Darren.
Q: How will this affect JaMarcus?
Kiffin: I think it’s going to help JaMarcus a lot. It gives him another tool to work with. As you go back and you research quarterbacks that have done really well over a long period of time it’s because they have the right things around him. It’s the same thing after the San Diego game we talked about in the press conference afterwards. We need to surround him with better talent. We think we’ve done it this offseason. That’s how young quarterbacks do really well. There’s not a better way than having a great running game and adding to that with a guy who can also catch the ball as well.
Q: What do you do to get McFadden ready to handle the sudden riches, fame?
Kiffin: Yeah, the league does a great job of that before you even get to what we do, specifically, with the rookies. They take them for a whole week and really educate them on all the issues they’re going to have in the first year. Then, we also have a number of meetings — Willie Brown heads up a program for our rookies here — and we really have to monitor these guys because you think that they’re old enough to handle all the stuff. But that’s not it. And it’s our job as coaches as well to always be communicating with these guys. What really excites me about Darren is he’s got Tom Rathman as his coach. So, here’s Tom Rathman, a guy who has been in the league, a guy who has been with great players. He has seen players that have got to the top and then went right back down to the bottom, or guys that even never got to the top because of how they acted
and how their rookie year, how they went about things. That went into this, as well, knowing that Tom has done a great job with our running backs in our first year and what a good job he’ll do with Darren, as well.
Q: The reaction of RB coach Tom Rathman?
Kiffin: It’s interesting because there were scenarios that we had to go over, with Darren not being there, and trading down. It just shows you the type of guy Tom is. You can have those position coaches, ‘Well, we got to do whatever it takes. Let’s trade up.’ He wasn’t that way at all. Tom the whole time was, ‘We got to do what’s best for the team. We’ll get a great player regardless.’ That just shows you who he is.
Q: How is McFadden different from Fargas and Rhodes?
Kiffin: Yeah, Darren’s faster than either of them. Justin at one time was comparable speed-wise but Justin through the injuries over the course of time isn’t the same speed that Darren is now, and neither is Dominic. So, you have a different speed factor there and you also have a guy that’s going to catch the ball outside of the backfield better than either of them do. Like I said before, it’s really good to have guys that are different instead of just having a couple of guys that are very similar. We’re real excited to go to work with this and figure it out and how much can we do right away that’s going to help us win. And not (do) too much.
Q: Do you mean line up McFadden on the outside?
Kiffin: Yes.
Q: When did Al Davis let you know this is the guy you wanted and were going to get?
Kiffin: About 30 minutes ago. It’s a long process. It’s weeks of meetings. In the end, we end up on the same page. I can’t tell you where he was right away because we have separate meetings initially before we come together. But I know right now that we’re both extremely excited abou the pick and how we’re going to utilize him and use his talents best.
Q: Did you recruit McFadden when you were at USC?
Kiffin: “No, we didn’t. He was someone that we contacted really early, and it became apparent that he was not going to go far away from home so we didn’t pursue him.
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April 26th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Fo Sho
April 26th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Remember Kiffin’s attempt to deny the Raiders would select McFadden because of our depth at RB? Man that made me laugh at the time, it was soooo transparent. Some of you jumped on that like flies to poo, lol.
Kiffin needs to work on his lying.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
we should have the #1 rated rushing game next year
April 26th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Well, that should answer every Kiffin and stop some of the whining.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Good read dsipells a lot of dis info
SB in 3
April 26th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
its going to be an exciting year– sands will be better- kelly will be in his natural position- warren and joseph will help- i think we need to get a second or third and get a DE, and fill out with OL depth for the future and a LB in the later rounds- like the guy from UNLV
April 26th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Dang it…here it is again…
Well, that should answer every question and stop some of the whining.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I want my,I want my, I want my Authentic
April 26th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Wow!
“When did Al Davis let you know this was the guy you wanted………..
And he answers..”About thirty minutes ago.”
It’s a great pick anyway and we should have an explosive offense.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Memo Says:
April 26th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Dakota,
Did you have to change your pants when you heard D-Macs named called?
____________________________________________________
No, but I might have to after his first 3 TD game; Monday night v. Denver.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
meshawn looks dumb with that pink tie
April 26th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
The swamp monster and speedy Mcgonzales
April 26th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
WTF talib?? I thought for sure they were going WR. Their D will lead them nowhere.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
The whole season still rides on one man-Jamarcus Russell. We go as far as he takes us.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Dakota Says:
April 26th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
“Remember Kiffin’s attempt to deny the Raiders would select McFadden because of our depth at RB? Man that made me laugh at the time, it was soooo transparent. Some of you jumped on that like flies to poo, lol.
Kiffin needs to work on his lying.”
and you need to work on your excessive gloating. It’s nauseating…
April 26th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Will Dallas take Mendenhall or Jones?
Interesting.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Could help the passing game if McFaddens used as a decoy. Im just still not gonna be happy unless we get some defensive help on day one.
God, the Bucs sure are stupid. They could have gotten Talib in 2. Nobody was gonna take him before Jenkins.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
I don’t see how the Raiders are going to keep all of their running backs. I think there is going to be a trade. Jordan will be cut. But I think either Rhodes or Fargas is going to get traded.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
cowgirls should take mendenhall
April 26th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Felix Jones. Arkansas connection. Great last name…
April 26th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Thec, Like the enthusiasm, but no way in hell SB in 3. Running backs never cary a team that far. With RR as DC, we will not make it that far in the playoffs. 1 and done.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
chargers should take ryan leaf….again
April 26th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
What’s interesting is the Panthers just traded next year’s pick, their number 1, for Ottah.
The Eagles have now two first round picks next year.
This is the fourth team to either complete the trade or propose one to another deciding to give or dangle first round picks.
The draft next year by scouts and the people who follow it, say next year is real weak.
This year is actually the best depth, and overall talent.
I know Davis never trades his first round pick, but Kiffin said in the presser if there is a player targeted they could make a move, let’s hope we don’t just sit and wait until the fourth round.
Do you make a move soon, were at 21 in the draft process, do we make a move late,26-31 or do we wait until the second round for a DT.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Jerry you’re doing a great job. You’re the first, the fastest and the best.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Mendenhall by far SHOULD be the pick for the Cowboys although I think they going to nab Devin Thomas he is still available prior to Mendendhall
April 26th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Hey Raider Nation
I like the McFadden pick. Glad to read that Kiffin wanted Him as well.
I read in an earlier post about possible nick names for Bush and McFadden.
What about a nickname for Jamarcus, Bush and McDaddy?
Rock=Bush….Paper$$$=JRuss…Scissors=McDaddy
April 26th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Dakota
I have to give you props, you wanted McFadden all along, good call.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
shoulda taken DORSEY
we blew it
u all know it too
April 26th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Cowboys should go for Mendenhall…but will Jerry let loyalty get the best of him?
Mayock will have major egg on his face if the Cowgirls go with Jones over Mendenhall, lol.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
I think if we trade its definitely going to be in round 2 and Im thinking LB or WR if Devin keeps falling which is highly unlikely with Tennessee and Dallas still lurking at end of round 2.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Please…trade with Dallas
get picks
April 26th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Raiders just traded up for Mendenhall!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Alright Nation, now that Darren McFadden is now a part of the Raider family, maybe we should give him a nickname. Run DMC, D-MAC, MacDaddy, McNasty etc. I like MacDaddy, but leaning towards McNasty. Jersey #20. might as well have some fun now, it could be a lil while before we pick again.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Dorsey is going to break his leg when DMAC steps on him on a 3 yrd TD run, and then he is going to kill a donkey with his bare hands!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Dakota..even if Mendenhall drops…Mayock’s been on point today (so far)
April 26th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Tommy Trojan as well and DSM Raider.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Still can’t believe what Carolina gave up to get Otah……Tragic.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Hunter…McDaddy= Scissors…He’s gonna cut people up
April 26th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
MIA,
Yeah, he has been on fire, but his Mendenhall over McFadden stance irked me.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
jones
April 26th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
So say Dorsey was the *sensible* pick . . . are there really folks out there who don’t get chills watching highlights of McFadden? That are so *sure* Michael Bush has what it takes?
If this guy clocks 1800 yards next year each and everyone of you better come back and admit you were being big azz babies.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
If Jones has a better career then DMC or Mend, the teams that pass on him will be wearing egg.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
OUCH!!!!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Dalas is taking Jones.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
tackles are flying off the board. i hope cable found his boy in harris.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
DAMN YOU DIRTY BIRDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
word.
-WR
April 26th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
That sucks
April 26th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
My prediction is Mendenhall over Jones for Dallas although Devin Thomas is a wildcard.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Just heard that the Raiders have traded Jordan a dozen times but each time they send him out he’s too slow to make the plane.
Maybe McFadden and Fargas could carry him.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
WR HERE WE COME.. man wouldn’t it be nice to move up and snag one of the top three or four wrs in the draft?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Raaaiidddeerrss!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
McFadden Returning Kicks should be damn exciting!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Oh boy we got Mcfumble. he’ll look good on the bench when the other team is running the clock out cause we cant stop it…..
April 26th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Oaklifer…If I’m picking It’s not a Wr. To Risky
April 26th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Lol, MIA…returning kicks…good one.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Jordan is pushing 3 bills and walking aroung Oakland in a Russel jersey. That is who Sheetheadt thought was Russel.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Sam Baker in the first. Wow.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Yeah… I wanted him back in December too.
Raider on,
Guamanian Raider
April 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
# M.I.A. Raiders Says:
April 26th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
McFadden Returning Kicks should be damn exciting!!
I agree, If he isn’t fumbling…
April 26th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
good one 951.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
i do hope im wrong though.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Stretch, the Raiders will “contain” the run. Scissors McFadden will cut the opposing D to shreds.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
With Baker of the board, we won’t be drafting an OT until the 4th, that sucks
April 26th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Who can we ship Walter off to for a late 1st early 2nd? It would have to be the 9ers or packers in the 1st. Don’t see that happening. So come on early 2nd.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
951…no team will want Walter
April 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Walter for a 1st or 2nd??? Keep on dreamin Nation.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Holy Crap Jones over Mendenhall !
April 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
scissors…….doesn’t fit. McButterfingers, or McBabyMommaDrama.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
LOL yea we will have the #1 run game.. and still be 6-10 because we couldnt stop anyone on the ground..
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
The Raiders need to make a move in the second round, Balmer is still there, Laws, Simms, could be there in round two.
Dre Moore and Red Bryant may last till the third round, I hope they are considering some move in the second or third rounds.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
#22 thec
The Chargers did. His name is Philip Leaf or Ryan Rivers take you pick.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Walter will get us zero in a trade.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
If Kiffen thinks that DMC was his choice for the 4th dang in someone will have to want walter for a top pick. lol.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Any predictions on Pittsburgh?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
jones would not go in the first if he didn’t go to arkansas
April 26th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Carl nicks OT from nebraska could plunge to the late 2nd because of some off the field issues. little big for the ZBS but he is still pretty quick for a guy pushing 350
April 26th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
pitsburgh grabs mendenhall
April 26th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Raiderlen… I know risky maybe a dl or lb if we move up but a wr at the mid of the second or early third with a trade would do us good in the depth and competion dept.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
951…LOL…McDaddy needs to see the Good Doctor and Have the Scissors applied..If You know what I mean.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Pitt: K. Balmer
April 26th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I think Mendenhall goes to Tennessee
April 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
I can see Pitt with Mendenhall…Parker cant handle full load and misses Bettis
April 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Merling to Pit?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
if dallas was smart they would have taken sweed, best WR, texas guy, offensive weapon from day 1, long term TO replacement…….but they reached for the 6th best RB because he went to JJ’s college…….that’s just dumb….but that’s the cowgirls
April 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
I say we trade next years #1 for a late 1 and 2nd round pick.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Pitt will select Devin Thomas
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Hell Raiderrrs Says:
April 26th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
#22 thec
The Chargers did. His name is Philip Leaf or Ryan Rivers take you pick.
LOL, I do beleive that rivers is going to have a leaf type melt down this year.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
i think pitt is going linebacker. adabi or connor
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Wow- Mendenhall to Pitt! Good Call TT
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
MIA, good call.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
steelers take mendenhall, balmer, or a WR
April 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Wow…Ben will never have to throw, lol.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
and it’s mendenhall, he should be happy he fell now
April 26th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Good call MIA
April 26th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Since Ive been calling him MacDaddy from the start, I’ll stay with MacDaddy. I think Pittsburgh is about to take Menenhall. I hope we hear something abou a trade soon. YA KNOW?!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
titans go sweed for sure
April 26th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Parker is a better complimentary back to Mendenhall just like they missed with Bettis/Parker.
Plus Parker is recovering injury from last year.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Titans GOTTA select a WR and get Young some damn help.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Steelrs got a great back in Medenhall
April 26th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Titans taking WR for Young to not throw to? Thomas or Sweed?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
I think Devin Thomas or even Desean Jackson over Sweed with Titans…leaning to Jackson cause they have NO SPEED at WR and have experimented with Bigger Recievers like Sweed and did not work.
Titans = Desean Jax or Devin Thomas
April 26th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Tennessee is going to take Earl Doucet
April 26th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
if they take a wide receiver it will be interesting to see who they make the #1 receiver of this class
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
maybe thomas……should be sweed
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Pit keeps getting the players sliding into their laps. One of these days we will get there.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Rashard Mendenhall–Tim Worley.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
that a good 1-2 punch Parker/Mendenhal
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Do the Cowgirls go WR at 28 and then trade us the 92nd pick for Washington, which we use on Red Bryant????
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
STUPID STUPID STUPD KIFFIN. Mcfadden isn’t the answer. He will be a bust and will not make ther raiders any better. We need D help. Dorsey would have been the smart pick. They are stupid for resigning Tommy Kelly. He will be a bust just like sands was after they gave him all that money. Kelly wasn’t the answer last yr against the run, so why would he be the answer this year? Too many RB’s. Mcfadden is not going to help russell. He is not going to protect him when russells is running for his life. Poor russell. He will see more sky’s then he has ever seen. since he will be laying on his back almost all the games. Ok raider fans, the season hasn’t started yet and we are looking to another horrible, embarrassing season. We’ll probably get the 3 or 4th pick come next year. Hang in there guys. We will have to wait until next year, until kiffin and the personall get their heads out of thier **ss.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Devin Thomas to Tenn
April 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Trade us for whom or what?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Watching the draft on the nfl network and the laker game on tv. And my woman is out picking up steaks for dinner. If this isn’t heaven, I don’t know what is.
Never was a fan of drafting McFadden over defense (ahhh, especially since Dorsey was right there waiting for us!), but now that we have him its exciting to imagine the possibilities.
I’m hoping we pull of some kind of trade to get another playmaker in the 2nd or 3rd. I’m wondering if Fargas and his favorable contract could be a trade chip? Of course there is Walter, Washington, Routt out there as well.
Snagging Devin Harris would be a major coup and then a zone-friendly OT in the 4th would be a great day. Or even if we can somehow get another edge rusher for our defense.
We’ll see - the draft is young …
April 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
We are going to tear denver to shreds on opening night.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Tennesse will never t8 early doucet u must be jokin hes a 3rd rounder
April 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
dakota that would be fantastic. trade a non-starter who we don’t need for a possible starter at a position of need. get it done al.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Brandon Coutu K Georgia
April 26th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Thec
He looked like Leaf during the last game of the year.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Tennesse will never t8 early doucet u must be jokin hes a 3rd rounder
April 26th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Parker is now # 2.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
WWWOOOOOWWWW!?!??!?!??!??!?!??!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
WOW, no confence in White? Or is this a “return” pick?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
WHHHAAAT!!!!! Wow, Johnson in the 1st, over a need at WR. Hmmm, I like Johnson, but man.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
what?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
wtf
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
GREAT PICK…Love Chris Johnson to compliment the Whale White
Looks like almost EVERY NFL Team has adopted the 1-2 Punch.
and it looks like we have ours SET.
Bush/McFadden
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
they must be jokin
April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Tenn just dropped all jaws with that pick, who’s to know.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Titans take a 4.24 40 RB.
Titans reached on this one.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
The Seahawks will surely take a WR.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
4.24 40!!!!!!!!! holy crap! Why wasn’t he the 4th pick?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Well that does make me feel a little better about it. He really is excited and happy about getting the kid and has an ecellent plan on how he wants to utilize him.
his may turn out better than I thought if he indeed sticks to the plan and work the kid in and doesn’t expect too much from him. how you use this kid is 70% the battle. Because he just can’t carry it like people think he can. I think he went to the right coach. And it looks like the right system. So we’ll see.
But reading that makes me feel a lot better.
Oh! my God the damn Titans got MY BOY. Chris Johnson DAMN IT!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
Sooooo, Vince still has no one to throw to. What the hell, do the plan on running the spread next year or something? Ridiculous.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
1-2 Punch
See the Pattern….
Raiders - Dmac/Bush
Carolina - Stewart/Williams
Cowboys - Jones/Barber
Steelers - Mendenhall/Parker
Tennessee - Johnson/White
April 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
seachickens just got screwed. Think they will call Shaun back and kiss his butt?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
Thr thing about Johnson to Tenn is Chris Henry, they took him in the 2nd round last year and he´s another blazing fast guy.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Dischargers coming up.
If they pick up a LB, there might be some truth to the Merriman suspension rumor.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
What? Seahawks signed several RBs in the offseason, how did they just get screwed 951?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
The experts are talking about his return skill on kickoffs, I thought they picked up Chris Carr for that role.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
All started by Bush/McAlister. Look how that worked last year. Not a good pattern to follow. Kiff is set. Bush = White and DMC = Bush (only better)
April 26th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
MIA
Tennesse now is 3 deep, LenDale, Henry and Johnson.
That´s a 2006 2nd, a 2007 2nd and a 2008 1st on RB´s.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Yeah, seems like the Titans are taking RBs early every year now.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
seattle will select purdue TE dustin keller!!
April 26th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Kiffin’s comments tells ya that nobody wants to give draft picks for someone else’s extra players like our RB’s and CB’s. We ain’t pickin again till tomorrow.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
The only way we get another pick today is if we give up our 1st next year…I hope Al does not do that.
Well….
Or maybe our second next year and Washington??? I could live with that.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
I think the 2 Back System cannot be directly related to McAllister and Bush.
You guys understand that RB have short shelf lives so the 1-2 punch confuses and tires defenses and more importantly increases the RB longevity.
Dont you guys agree. Glad were set there…now lets get a LB or DL
April 26th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
sweed or jackson to DAL
April 26th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
WHAT???? The 3 RB’s on the chickensquad are under 6′ (one is 6′) The highest rated is a 48, the other 2 are 30. Where is the quality RB? They can’t win the NFC West like that, no matter how bad everyone else is.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Jerry Jones taking Felix Jones. Felix is a good back, but now you know Parcells is no longer running their draft.
What’s interesting is who is AJ Smith going to take in San Diego???? Might guess right now is Balmer.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
…..or maybe thomas
April 26th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
good pick for cowgirls, great value
April 26th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Jones and Jenkins…think Jerry has no faith in the rain maker getting on the field?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
We brought in Manningham, Devin Thomas, Donnie Averson…does anyone think we trade for a WR ??
April 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
No WR’s so far, that’s real interesting.
Wide out’s are not the premium this draft.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
whats the record for most trades in the 1st round?
April 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
there goes a trade with the cowgirls
April 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
LB for the Chokers. 2 on the roster with suspension problems…….reach for a flop….er I mean LB.
April 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
we need CBs to fly off the board to get value for washington
April 26th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
#159 Good logic
April 26th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
great pick
April 26th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
take COLT BRENNAN with our next pick!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Flowers and Cason still on the board
April 26th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
That is the smartest thing I have ever heard you say Mr. Trojan.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Prior to start of draft, Kirk Herbstreet said McFadden is BETTER than Adrian Peterson.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Colt Brennan? No.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
15 trades is the record.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
WOW!?!?!??!?!?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Five RBs taken in the first…where are all you RB haters now???
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Damn, what year was that?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
WOW Duane Brown in the first round!!!!!!!!!!! Tell me we don’t know what we’re talking about Tommy Trojan.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
I just realized w/ McFadden & Bush we have 2 guys who have significant experience taking snaps from center and even throwing the ball a little bit in HS and/or College. Could we see a two TE set w/ a backfield of Bush @ QB, O’neal @ FB, and DMac @ HB. Or perhaps running the old Oklahoma wishbone w/ Bush, Griffith, and DMac. Or bush pitching to DMac on the option. I know Kiff said he did’nt want to do too much yet but he could do some really crazy sh!t.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Its about time we got a stud RB
Finally
Great times ahead for the raiders
We just need that great WR to complete the troika:
Jamarcus
Mcfadenn
April 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
The Chargers are going to take an offensive lineman or a runningback.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
I hope Kiff can find a LT in the AFL. Cause he aint getting one in the draft. Holly crap OL are flying off the board.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Dischargers on the clock….
April 26th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Yes good observation…TT…your hittin on all cylinders.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
YES, COLT BRENNAN! the perfect backup for JR.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
It’s been what 4 corners gone already??? Fabian has to have value right now.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
What RB did Shefter say Philly traded a pick for? We gotta put the FOR SALE sign on Lamont and Dom asap.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Did you see the types of passes DMC threw? I have shot ducks that didn’t fly that bad.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
brown was a huge reach, but the run on OTs is hitting everyone hard
April 26th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
maybe balmer to chargers
April 26th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
they are grabbing a CB
April 26th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
the only person who needs to throw the ball is JR. Until DMC hits LT’s status, then crush his record.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Chargers get Cason, CB
April 26th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
ray rice
April 26th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Told Ya!! Good for TT’s Theory
April 26th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
They passed on Kenny Phillips???
April 26th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
So far very interesting draft, lot of teams helping themselves, some giving up too much to move up. But hey! if you get what you need that’s all that matters.
They’re some tremendous HB’s in this draft and still some very good ones available.
SD just made a very smart pick great player.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
No help for the chokers. USC had crap WR’s and Az still got torched. He had a pick, but it was underthrown.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
the cason pick o fill the nickle role was unnecessary for SD but it helps washington’s value more, expect sveral teams to be knocking on the dour mid-to-lat 2nd
April 26th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
TT,
Is Brandon Flowers the last good CB on the board???
April 26th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
also the fact that there are no safetys in this class means stu may have some value in a package deal with washington
April 26th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Should be nice to see the Whiners blow their pick.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
flowers, king, porter, and thomas all have value at CB, but flowers is the only one who’s value arguably matches that of washington’s
April 26th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Guy’s I just dn’t believe we will trade Fabian, I could be wrng but cover guy’s are very hard to find. And we have 4 good ones, why give one away let someone come and get him and you know what I mean.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
I predict a Raider’s trade with the Seahawks. The Raiders will take Lawrence Jackson.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
SEA should look WR, balmer, or DE
April 26th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
cole, that would be a dream come true
April 26th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
i know the bills already drafted a CB but having someone with experience could help them, and they also need a safety. possible trade partner?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMM IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
they took him themselves
April 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
steal for the seahawks
April 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
NNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Raul, you’re an idjit — whether or not Kiffin is happy with the pick, he didn’t make it. C’mon, join the party.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
look for the whiners to go balmer, merling or WR…….or maybe even brohm
April 26th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
The 49ers should take a kicker.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Right now John York is in the mens room vomiting because he’s actually going to have to pay some guy he’s never met millions of dollars. Yorks a loser.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
…..or dan connor
April 26th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
No WR taken in Round One will break the Draft Record
April 26th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
chill, kiff may not have made the pick but i still think this is who he wanted and he definitely conveyed that to al.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
DE to the seachickens. Mike hooked them up on his way out.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
they finally got the NT they’ve needed for years
April 26th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
will Merling fall to us in the 4th? last year we picked up a 1st round guy in the 4th, will it happen again?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Balmer looks slow.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Walter and washington to GB!!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Packers will take a WR, or maybe a QB
April 26th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Jordan back to the Jets for their 2nd. hehehehehe
April 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
i think walter could succeed in GB but they are looking at younger guys to take over for favre.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
wow. Jets trade up. They will take a QB.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Rout and Stu to the Giants for 31.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
The SI scribe providing updates is such a Raider hater, why is he even there.
His name Johnan Freedman, what a moron.
SI has 13 writers at different sites and we get this dork.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
jets should take brohm or maybe one of the WRs, or find their 3-4 DE in merling, or 3-4 ILB in connor
April 26th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Mayock’s one bad dude, Tommy Cason can play and they lost Florence.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
They have farverahs replacement. They need his backup. Walter would eventually beat him out for the start.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Jets are taking dustin keller
April 26th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
are they positive that rodgers is the guy though?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Jets taking a TE…..They are going after the patsies week middle.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
they’ll take the TE keller
April 26th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
cason can play, he’s a starter caliber, he could end up being the best CB in the class, but to use a 1st to fill a nickle role is unnecessary
April 26th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Thats why they need Walter. I think he’s better then Rodgers.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Texan’s tried to get Walter and Al wouldn’t part with him.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Let me be the first to say it. Raiders, team of the decade - 2010s.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
951 i think walter is better than rodgers too. but i think they’ll look to bring in some younger competition, but what do i know?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
MIA Nailed that pick
April 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
good call litch
April 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
and MIA
April 26th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
4.5 speed for a TE……..wow. If he could just learn to block.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
walter and washington for packer’s 2nd
April 26th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
….and 4th
April 26th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
i love how folks think Walter and Schweigert have trade value.
This is an unforgiving league. Teams aren’t bending over to give second chances to guys, regardless of the circumstances. There’s always fresh meat.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
(#36)
April 26th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
DeSean Jackson to the Giants.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
This is getting crazy. Giants will prob go WR justs to get the best avail.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Giants will take Kenny Phillips from the U!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Chill, Walter has never had a chance to screw up. Stu on the other hand would be lucky to get a 7th.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
I dont think they go WR, Steve Smith should step up next year
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
NYG takes Merling…more DE´s!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
tyrell johnson
April 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Kiffin’s future is all about what they do this year.
That being said, the biggest weakness the Raiders had was not at RB, it was D-Line.
We have Gholston and Dorsey to choose from and I think we blew it.
We can’t get anything for Jordan and his broke back, Fargas is a backup no matter how well he did last year (it was all system fit) which makes him overpaid and untradable, and even though Rhodes has a better contract, he is old too so nobody is going to give up a pick for a player that can be put to use this year.
I like what Al Davis has been doing this year, but I think he just screwed Kiffin with this pick. If we have a wuss D-Line again this year, Al deserves to be fitted with a straight jacket track suit. Don’t worry Al, buckles and straps are all the fashion this year in sporting apparel.
If Gholston and Dorsey are studs out of the gate I’ll be screaming at the TV even more this year than I did this morning when they announced the pick.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
TT that sounds good to me.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
Im on FIRE!!!!!!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
Kenny Phillips, great look for NY.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
they needed him, well, the U streak continues……but still no WRs
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
wow, NY is going D again in the first.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
C’mon chill, Walter has value. the QB’s in this league right now are pretty pedestrian. And this draft class is pretty weak. You got Matt Ryan one, and Joe Flacco a Div 1aa guy going 2nd?? Walter has value.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
look for merling, groves, brohm, henne, or a WR to MIA
April 26th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Their WR are very formidable….Pax, Toomer, Steve Smith and Sinorice Moss
April 26th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Walter may be able to get a third.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
7 min per pick now? what will bill do M.I.A?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Miami will get QB….Henne
April 26th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Miami is going take Limas Sweed.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
We aint trading Walter Tommy until we get more settled at the QB position, and why does everyone want to trade Washington?
When we get a solid backup for Russell then you trade Walter. we’ll be able to get back in the draft if we need to without weakening ourselves.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
good pick
April 26th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
The Raiders might be thinking seriously of jumping into the 2nd round for a receiver
April 26th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
so much for that one too. Hopefully we will still have picks next year. this sucks.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Good pick Merling was graded 1st Round and did a Queef move addressing OL and DLine consecutively
April 26th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
trade washington because he’s overpaid for a dime CB and he can get us more value in the 2nd or 3rd than he offers us as a dime back, and we can get o’connell or brennan in the 6th or 7th
April 26th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
The Raiders should trade Walter and sign a Dilfer or Ratay.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
there are other qb’s on the roster, if they don’t work out we could always go get jeff george again.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
avery over thomas, sweed and jackson? WOW!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
looks like miami likes beck? yikes. Maybe bill will call al for walter and and give us taylor.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
was mike vick in that under armour commercial? lol.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
who?
April 26th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
if we can get a 4th or better for walter we should do it, if we can get a 3rd or better for washington we should do it; right now we should trade both to QB for their 2nd right now and take sweed, thomas, or jackson
April 26th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Thats nuts, Avery is very unpolished, fast but runs awful routes
April 26th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Merling was a great pick. Parcells grabs two great linemen. Ahhh, What does he know about building teams??
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
jordan cant be traded, rhodes will be, & trading walter without any other viable qb is just silly. especially since we have him under contract for minor $$.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
*both to GB
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
They coulda got Desean Jackson if thats what they were lookin for
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
here go the wr’s
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
The Chiefs are going to take Brohm.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
KC will pick Limas Sweed.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Crazy that Thomas fell so far
April 26th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
now KC may get thomas
April 26th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Problem Tommy is Davis wants at least what he paid. That’s what stops sooooo many Raider deals. Avery over Devin???? No way.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
QB or WR to KC.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
they SHOULD take brohm
April 26th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
I agree Walter has value.
QB’s were terrible last year.
This draft was weak and next years draft is expected to be even weaker.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Wow, A+ so far for KC….bummer.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
KC takes Calais or Quentin Groves
April 26th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
they stole flowers from GB
April 26th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
oops
April 26th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
A+ where from…anyone who grades drafting before they step onto the field is absurd.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Yikes…..CB…..WE NEED A WR……..Trade with GB NOW!
April 26th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Dakota
Those grades by the scribes is ridiculous.
Let’s wait three years and grade them then.
Even you after today from your pick looks like you have a A+ for drafting, are you the next GM.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Rout or Washington to GB for this pick.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
I can feel it. Here comes the trade.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
first two WRs are major reaches
April 26th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Relax with the Chief’s Draft after all they still got
Brodie Freakin Croyle….LOL
Jordy Nelson in the 2nd …so much for a sleeper.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
We should try to get Hardy.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
ATL, BAL, SF, and NO all need CBs badly
April 26th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
KC = A+ draft. Get over it.
April 26th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Can we possibly trade for DESEAN JACKSON??????????
April 26th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Walter and Washington are going to Atlanta