Greg Knapp Q&A
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Sunday, April 27th, 2008 at 9:00 pm in Oakland Raiders.
With coach Lane Kiffin busy trying to lure undrafted free agents to Oakland, coordinators Greg Knapp and Rob Ryan met with the local media to discuss the 2008 draft.
Knapp’s transcript:
Q: How is Arman Shields’ knee?
Knapp: “He’s fully recovered. He got hurt early enough in the season that there was time for recovery. So, he’s ready to go. We’re very excited about getting him. Here’s a guy that’s a 4.41 receiver that has a great knack to get vertical after the catch. He seems to find window in zone, along with the speed that he has. He showed a great knack to get yards after the catch and so he has enough versatility to play outside in a one-on-one matchup as well as put him in the slot. In our interview, back at the combine and when we talked to him out here, really sharp guy. Really sharp guy.”
Q: What was the knee injury?
Knapp: “I don’t get into the medical stuff. I just, ‘Clear or no clear?’ ”
Q: Is it a nice problem to have so many running backs to sort through?
Knapp: It is. My background from being in the league is that you need more than one. You need two, for sure, and probably three. Last year was a case and an example. We went to three guys at the running back spot. There’s no doubt that you need a definite combination because the season’s so long and now the game is so physical. The defensive side has gotten much faster, stronger and quicker. So, you can’t have enough backs. This kid’s versatility is just unbelievable watching him do the things he has done, from quarterback, being outside, catching the ball out of the backfield, not to mention the running back himself. It made a lot of sense when you have a guy with that kind of ability that, even though we had some quality guys already in place, it’s a great weapon to have.
Q: Can you draw any comparisons between McFadden and anyone you’ve seen?
Knapp: No. He’s unique. In my experiences, his home-run ability is very unique from what I’ve seen on the college tape. Hopefully, that will transfer over to the pro level, as well. What does make it even more so is that ability to move him around and to put him in different places. Some of you guys might know my background, where I came from, we did a little bit of the offense where we had a guy named Mike Vick take the hand-off and do some of the run game that way. This guy did that for the last couple years there at Arkansas. So, he provides an option where that could also be used.
Q: Was it important to add speed at receiver?
Knapp: You bet. Good point. We definitely want to increase our speed. Both the guys, Chaz and Arman run a 4.41, 4.42 40-time and really can stretch the field. And with Chaz, you get a 6-4 guy, a big target for the quarterbacks to throw to. With Arman, you get a little more experience, a guy that has played at a higher level and that has done a lot of good things, as well.
Q: How much of a project is Schilens?
Knapp: I don’t know. Each guy, from my experiences, sometimes the guys from a program that maybe weren’t exposed as much just didn’t get that exposure to vault them higher in the draft. They go to the right place that has the right fit that allows that guy to grow faster. That’s kind of how we see him fitting in with us. He’s going to be a really good fit for what we do on offense, so it may grow faster than what maybe his draft round was for him.
Q: You get greedy as an offensive coordinator?
Knapp: Heck, yeah. Ultimately, it’s what’s best for the team. But when you have a guy what that kind of ability, that does give you potential that anytime he touches the ball, he could go the distance. Yeah. I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say you get a little greedy sometimes. But ultimately, what’s best for the team is what counts. Because that’s what makes this game great, the team support.”
Q: What is Fargas’ reaction to getting McFadden?
Knapp: He is such a quality guy. Obviously we call the players right away, they’re in that room when we draft somebody, especially a significance like Darren is. And his talks with his position coach, Tom Rathman, he was excited for the team: ‘Hey, if that’s gonna help our team, then let’s go do it.’ And look at the role he’s had the last couple years, before he became a starter last year, and how much of a pro he was with you guys and around others. That’s who he is. And so I’m sure he’ll make this a transition that’s as smooth as possible. Because that’s Justin, that’s his makeup.
Q: What did you see in Kwame Harris that convinced you he could be your left tackle?
Knapp: I was in San Francisco the year he got drafted. And really liked what I saw in his athletic ability, his smarts, and power. He’s a very good run blocker. He just, unfortunately, went through what’s very tough in this business – three coaches in four years. And so he has unfortunately not had a very strong foundation for him to build from. Because each time a new coach comes in, they’re gonna want to do it their way. But the traits that I saw coming out, we evaluated as a staff, and we saw, ‘Hey, here’s something he still does well.’ And he just needs to hopefully get a steady hand of teaching it and training him a certain way. His power in the run game is outstanding. His quick feet in pass protection is good. We just gotta develop some of the techniques to be more consistent.
Q: You see similarities between him and Gallery?
Knapp: Yeah, I think we saw great progress last year, and I think it’s just gonna continue in that same form. With some stability here, that’s gonna help him become a better player.
Q: Can Javon Walker recapture his all-pro level?
Knapp: Yes, definitely. It’ll be based on how much he recovers off the knee. But he’s doing great there, his progress has been excellent. And what I have found, guys like that, that have already reached a certain status – and I was with him at the Pro Bowl, back in ’04 when he went there from Green Bay – they’ve got something to prove now. And they’ve got a little hunger and they’ve got a little fire. And he is gonna make it exciting for us, because he’s that determined. And the pros that are like that you want around you, cause he’s gonna make it show to everybody, ‘Hey, I wasn’t done. Here I am again.’ And he’s doing it right now in the offseason.”
Q: What do you look for now in undrafted free agents?
Knapp: Yeah, it’s more based on what our needs are, what is our open slots available. And we’ve done a great job, the personnel department, front office in conjunction with the coaching staff have filled a lot of the needs, whether it be through free agency or our draft. So one of those slots may be a quarterback. We only have two proven guys on the roster right now, might be a free-agent quarterback. Fullback situation, we only have two on the roster right now. So we’re gonna look at our needs to fill the rest of the roster spots, not so much what is out there at other positions if we’re already, at this point, set in numbers.
Q: How much has JaMarcus progressed this offseason?
Knapp: Because we’re not allowed to do team settings it’s hard to tell. But as far as the classroom goes, he’s done a great job. He’s been meeting for an hour and 45 minutes Monday, Tuesday and Thursday since March 10th. We’ve been on the field for an hour on those same respective days and to see the progress of the footwork and the correlation we’re getting in the classroom as far as quizzing and taking the test. We give him study guides each week to take home and bring back, the quizzes we’ve given in the classroom, he’s really progressed fine. It’s exciting to see because this is when you see a lot of growth. It’s those guys after their first year into their second year. We don’t get to do as you might have read about the hard-wiring of the quarterback with a rookie QB because we don’t pick him up until like May 16. Even then you’re jumping into OTAs so the time we get to spend now really of really wiring a guy’s brain on how to play the position in our offense is during this time. We’ve seen great strides in the classroom and in the individual stuff and now we’re hoping to see it in the OTAs when we
start team practice.
Q: Do you grade those quizzes like a teacher?
Knapp: No. A lot of them would be like right now I would throw out in the mmiddle of watching a play, ‘What’s your progression here, what’s your footwork, who’s your first read on the defense.’ Obviously the feedback I get like you would all get with me in reaction is, ‘Oh that’s good. He’s stepping up quicker.’ Some of the things he’s brought up to us really has impressed me. Like when we started this offseason back March 10th we showed something on the board and he goes, ‘Why are you asking me that question coach? That’s the one you asked the night before my workout at LSU.’ He was exactly right. We were putting up a quiz against a certain defense if this guy were to blitz where would the ball go to. He was like, ‘You got something new for me, don’t you?’ And that’s exciting. Because if you’ve got that kind of recall on a night that was very important to him a year ago way before the draft you know he’s into it and really wants to become a better quarterback.
Q: With more speed do you call same plays with better results or add more to playbook?
Knapp: It will still depend on who you’re playing. It will be about matchups. It’s trying to place the guy in the right spot to go against that certain defense. The more speed you can get the more matchups you can potentially create. Ultimately we’re not going to change a whole lot of plays. If you try to show that consistency we talked about earlier, the scheme will still stay the same. We may use a couple of different parts of it that allow for this matchup with this guy or a running back on a linebacker or a receiver on a safety whatever it may be. You try to place them in formations to use the same type of plays but to try to get that speed advantage.
Q: Will JaMarcus be at voluntary minicamp?
Knapp: A rookie minicamp. He will not be allowed to participate. The rookie minicamp is only with players who don’t have any accrued years. It’s rookies and or tryouts that first weekend.
Q: What does John Wade do for you?
Knapp: Great experience, 10 years in the NFL. Very familiar with our protection schemes. He has to learn the vernacular but the same types of reads were being applied to what he was learning in Tampa Bay. Just knowledge of the run game. He did some of the stuff we did, not as much as we do here, but he seems to be a quick learner from what we’re finding out from Coach Cable in their classroom meetings and on the field.
Q: Was Newberry too expensive?
Knapp: It’s a matter of timing. He wanted an opportunity to look at other things as well. It was just one of those situations where John Wade became available to us and we went out and signed him.
Q: Can Bush come to rookie camp?
Knapp: I believe so. I’m almost positive he can because he did not get the accrued year because he was on PUP.
Q: How is Mario Henderson progressing?
Knapp: He’s making good progress too. Him and JaMarcus are in that same boat. That first year to second year experience. I’m excited to see him go. It’s harder to evaluate a lineman maybe because you need to see him go in pass protection and the team stuff. But as far as seeing him progress physically in the weight room and in the conditioning he’s
really made great strides.
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April 27th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
I like what we’ve done. Cable must have a great deal of confidence in the players we have. I trust him.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Hope Bush/Fargas/McFadden can carry the team.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
all the good UDFA LBs are getting scooped up in a hurry
April 27th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
If Knapp is satisfied with the O Line then Cable is too and we’re more set than we believe.
Remember we also brought in LT’s Palmer & Wilson for depth. They would’ve been no worse than what we would’ve picked up in the 5th or later rounds.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
MAN, I dunno….
April 27th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
TT, it;s true, and the Niners are the worst of the scoopers, taking two of my most wanted SAM prospects — Guyton and Butler. I know I’m being repetitive, but I can’t help but feel jipped.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Im not and have not been worried at all about O-line because I have more faith in Cable, due to his resume, than any coach period. He is a super coach and has been every where he has gone, from college to NFL. Looks like Knapp is excited about the players we got and from an offensive stand point, we should be good. Just still concerned about stopping the run but ill shut up about it and just see what happens. At least we should be able to put some points on the board, without question.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
DSM-i’m more concerned with the right side especially after i heard Kiffin say McQuistin is a left side lineman.it seems we have depth on the left side but on the right side we have ?,maybe henderson?
April 27th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
Was it important to add speed at reciever???
There’s the question of the day. If I was Gregg Knapp I would’ve said, “well, since Mr. Davis was winning the sprint races we had in camp, even tho he used his walker, yes, speed was important to add to the recieving corp.”
Or how’s about the ever popular, “Duh,”
Adding speed to the recieving corp was crucial to this teams success.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
The offensive fire power added to the team in the off season is very impressive. McFadden, and Javon bring big play potential that has not been around since early in the 05 campaign when Moss was still trying.
The two rookies, J. higgins, Drew Carter, Zach miller, John Madsen, Ronald Curry, Fargas, Rhodes, Bush and the two full backs round out a solid offensive unit. This second tier of players is good enough to compete on a high level if Jamarcus is ready to take command of the team.
Walker and McFadden are the two home run hitters that will determine how dangerous the Raiders are this year. These two players have the ability and talent to make the raiders into a contender if they are able to have good years: 1,000 yards and 8 td’s for Walker, and 1,000 yds 10 td’s for mcFadden are what I define as being good years.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
You guys as soon as you put Fargas and Mike Bush in the backfield, and split Dmac out, look out!!!!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
We really have a great offensive coaching staff. That makes all the difference in the world. It makes every draft pick and new player that comes in 10x better because the Raiders are organized and intelligent.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
we went from havig one the worst sets of skill position players in the NFL to one of the best, and also dramatically improved our defense, this has been a GREAT draft!!!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Fargas, Gallery, Nnamdi, Morrison=Team Captains……..write it down…………
April 27th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
In Tom Cable we trust. The Raiders have drafted a lot of players for this unit this year, and have made some key FA pick ups: between Gallery, Grove, Henderson, Mquistain, Carlisle, Wade, Green, and Chris Morris, and Kwame Harris, the Raiders should field a solid starting unit with decent depth
April 27th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
i know i’m going against the popular way of thinking,but i don’t see DM scoring 10 TDs his first year.if we drive the ball like we should,and Bush is who some of us think he is,Bush will have more TDs.does anyone remember P.Banazak(?).
April 27th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Huff I think we are about to find out how good a coaching staff we really have. Davis provided the coaches with some incredible athletes. Incredible athletes!! The coaches are going to have to make players out of these guys. It’s up to the coaches now. Davis has done his job.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Wow, just got to see how the day went.
This draft is a wash!
We took a RB and a CB on day 1 because they were so good we couldn’t pass it up(regardless of need), then we start day 2 by trading a first round CB for a 4th round KR, follow that up with a WR and a 6th round DE, then a WR in the 7th?
On a good note, also just watched the McFadden news conference and he looked quite annoyed by the whole process. I’m taking a liking to this guy!
Compared to Kiffin and Co. last year this draft was not very good at all.
But, we’ll see…..Go Raiders!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Well, I gotta say, despite TT’s good argument in favor of the selections we made today, this draft SUCKED HARD. After DMAC, we just choked. I hate that we got Shields for Fabian, and I think we could have walked away with better talent and addressed more desperate needs. Trevor Scott has impressive numbers, but we could have got Robertson. And instead of getting a SAM i the 7th we got another friggin’ wide out — which would have been cool if we hadn’t just taken Shields.
Man, we could have had RED BRYANT, and instead we got a broken down WR from Richmond. I think we probably should have got a better return for Fabes, too.
No, I’m giving this draft a C+
April 27th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
It comes down to blocking and execution. There was no offensive line and Walters and the rest of the QB’s got clobbered. Given time to execute and if he they can practice getting off quick, they can win some games. Timing last year was terrible, culpepper could not move fast enough, blocking would break down, CRUNCH. Part of it is defensive players are getting faster and smarter. Use that to our advantage. WE NEED NOT BE so predictable. It is possible to Blitz more to keep the other team off balance, and use a two minute no huddle once in a while to keep them off balance. We need to be more aggressive and not so predicatable.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
Here is something to consider. We added James Lofton as our WR coach. Anybody notice we added the WR Chaz from San Diego State? You don’t think Lofton already had an eye on him from coaching with the Chargers? The good thing is, he didn’t help draft these guys for the Chargers and with his guidance and Kiffin’s knowledge with receivers as well…we are primed and ready to go.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
we don’t need to blitz more,besides that won’t happen,we need to blitz more effectively.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Also…Can you imagine how much fun this offense and defense is going to have with all this speed on the practice field? Asomugha and Hall are going to have their hands full keeping up with these fast youngens.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Yeah, that’s about it….practice field!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
How a “grade” can be given before the UFA is are totaly taken…or even given at all is a mystery to me… It seems we’ve taken some great potential on both sides… You have to consider what we got in free agency… Hall… Warren… Harris… these are starters or solid backups… Kiffen was hired as much for his recruting ability as anything else… Knapp and Cable for there experience… Listen to Knapp’s quote about his ability to use someone like McFadden… pay attention people… we’ve improved… for sure..
April 27th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Heres a goal line set. Bush at FB and McFadden at Tailback in the I formation. We can hit you right up the gut or around the edge no problem. The question is, which is it going to be and are you prepared to stop it? And don’t think you’re getting it easy with a QB sneak from JR…hes bigger than both those guys. lol.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Hello out there again fans,..hmmm,..fans?…well anyway,…after reading some of the crap in here it dawned one me,…Jerrys blog should be called, “Wannabe Raider fans who dont go to games but hang in blogs”…that would include losers like La Melissa Negro,..Huff,…Maddenraider and his many names,…Dakota,…coinman, LoserGlenn…so many,…that of course would mean I would need to stay away,..because I do attend every game,…as well as two road games a year…but I can expect you losers to go to games, that would take away from your blog time,…but hey, enjoy from your couch!!!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Good point with Loften Huff… he’s definately a key to the off season… he should be a huge plus for us… think… Kiffen and Knapp for running backs and J mac… Cable for the line… Loften for the receivers… Now, if RR can handle his additions on D…and Special teams with our fringe additions… we’ve definately improved… (on paper)
April 27th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
http://www.raiders.com/assets/0/216/220/38c02aa4-b67e-46c5-ab05-954d22164e58.jpg
Now THIS will help cheer you guys up. Looks like we didn’t end up with a bunch of moo moo’s after all. Thank God!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
and, dont sleep on Miller in that goal line set too…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
The defense is a tough one to figure out: Al and Ryan are banking on the talent they have acquired to reach its potential. Burgess, Morrison, Howard, Hall, and Namdi all have pro bowl potential this year. If they all play at that level, then the Raiders will have a top ten defense.
Micheal Huff, Terdell Sands, Gibril Wilson, and Tommy Kelly all have to the potential to be good players in the NFL: maybe not all-pro’s with the exception of Huff who has some untapped potential, but all can be solid pro’s that can make plays consistently. All of these players are paid accordingly and if they do not live up to potential, it probably will lead to the firing of Rob Ryan.
Jay Richardson, Kalimba Edwards, Robert Thomas, Gerrard Warren, and Stanford Routt all are expected to be big contributers for the Defense this year.
These 14 players will get the majority of the snapps on defense this year. They collectively have the talent and ability to be a top 5 defense, and they have the pay checks and expectations that show the Raiders believe in them.
Other factors that will determine the 08 campaign are Namdi’s lack of a long term deal, Derrick Burgess’ desire to play under his current contract, Terdell’s ability to bounce back from a really bad year, and tommy Kelly’s ability to come back from a season ending injury. Any one of those issues can take the defense from being a top five unit to repeating last years let down.
It will be interesting to watch.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
We will carry four RBs, the two FBs, and a full compliment of WRs. We’ll make up for that with only two TEs. This will be a powerful and exciting offense.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Insider… how does name calling legitimize any input you give? Really though…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Lofton probably told Al to go get this Schillens kid. You’re right Huff. + what do you think Lofton can do with Shields and todd Watkins??? Most likely exactly what he did with the San Diego recievers, which was improve them greatly.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Good offseason so far. Get McFadden in on time. What’s up with all the media availability?? Is he letting go of all that unproductive stuff?
April 27th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Madsen and Miller are a great pair of TE”s… both have receiver capablities… and if we can get Mcquistan and Henderson to perform on the line…the can fill in on big run sets…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Say a-LAME-da, not only do I go to every home game I go to a bunch of the away games. But hey, you never make any sense so…..
April 27th, 2008 at 9:47 pm
Getting Mcfadden in on time is huge… an priority … especially after what we went through with Jamarcus last year… (though… caviat…. I think in the long run it may benifit him for this year…)
April 27th, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Basically Dick V, and I got into it here with one knucklehead about this a couple of months ago. Basically, they decided to GREATLY improve the offense. Our offense was mired in the bottom of the league in practically every category, so they figured improving the O would be the best way to improve the D.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Lefty,
Dmac has all world potential and I really think he is better than Peterson once injuries and versatility are factored in. Dmac can score from the back field, spilt out wide or from the return game. 10 td’s is not out of the realm of possibility. I like Bush, and I agree that he will be in on short yardage, but I doubt the Raiders will take McFadden out near the goal line.
The kid has great talent and has a nose for the end zone. Bush had some 20 plus Td’s in his junior campaign, but we haven’t seen him in over two years so I am not expecting much.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
It’s silly …. yes silly…to complain about what games people can and can not go to… you have no idea what their situation is… …Ignore the Ignorant … I always say…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
tonio,..why do you use multiple names on blogs?…who are you hiding from anyway?…is this your pattern also in the real world?…Glenn you are a know-nothing dork.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
Priest-re comment 221 on previous post-your last sentence sums it all up!
April 27th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
AI - You have such a life that you had to go out and build your self esteem by pointing out who you think is a loser? Geez. You attend every game. Wonderful. What do you do during the 6 month off-season? What do you do Monday-Saturday during the season? Are you a loser outside of the 3 hours you spend inside the stadium? Outside of a little debate with you, we’ve never had a problem but obviously thats what you want. You want a problem with people over the internet. Funny how you pick your fights here. Why don’t you find a bar to make enemies at instead? I’m sure it wouldn’t go as well there as it does here.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Tonio you are exactly right. But if someone comes in here saying stupid dumb sh**, I have to check them.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Glenn,..you and La Melissa Negro make a nice couple.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
There is a lot riding on Kwame Harris. I honestly dont think that Mario will ever see the field in the Kiffin era.
The ZBS uses smaller linemen that can move and Mario is th eexact opposite. He is proababy the biggest individual Ive ever seen and he walks very gumpy.
We need to chalk him up to the Art Shell era.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Oak… and with RR’s contract up at the end of this season… if the D”s not improved… Kiffen still has (with Nhamdi locked up .. fingers crossed)… a defense that he can then switch the tampa two he’s enamored with…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Oak-you were always a Dline-Oline guy.mostly Dline.what changed your mind?
April 27th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Oakglenn,
Of course I have to back that point about improving the offense makes the defense better. I was not sold on drafting McFadden, but he adds explosion and volatility to the offense that defenses will have to fear. for that alone he was worth the pick: I would have rather took a DE or LT for the money, but its not my decision, and I have never won a Super bowl like Al Davis so I have to hope that man is still on his game.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Last Year
Offense
QB-Josh McCown
RB-Justin Fargas
FB-JustinGriffith
TE-ZachMiller
WR1-Jerry Porter
WR2-Ronald Curry
WR3-Tim Dwight
LT-Barry Sims
LG-Robert Gallery
C-Jerremy Newberry
RG-Cooper Carlisle
RT-Cornell Green
Defense
LE-Jay Richardson
DT-Warren Sapp
NT-Gerrard Warren
RE- Chris Clemons
SLB-Robert Thomas
MLB-Kirk Morrison
WLB-Thomas Howard
CB1-Nnamdi Asomugha
CB2-Stanford Routt
CB3-Fabian Washington
SS-Michael Huff
FS-Stuart Schweigert
K-Sebastian Janikowski
P-Shane Lechler
KR-Chris Carr
PR-Tim Dwight
LS-Jon Condo
This Year
Offense
QB-JaMarcus Russell
RB-Darren McFadden
FB-Justin Griffith
TE-Zach Miller
WR1-Javon Walker
WR2-Ronald Curry
WR3-Drew Carter
LT-Kwame Harris
LG-Robert Gallery
C-John Wade
RG-Cooper Carlisle
RT-Cornell Green
Defense
LE-Derrick Burgess
DT-Tommy Kelly
NT-Terdell Sands
RE- Jay Richardson
SLB-Robert Thomas
MLB-Kirk Morrison
WLB-Thomas Howard
CB1-Nnamdi Asomugha
CB2-DeAngelo Hall
CB3-Stanford Routt
SS-Gibril Wilson
FS-Michael Huff
K-Sebastian Janikowski
P-Shane Lechler
KR-Tyvon Branch
PR-Tyvon Ranch
LS-Jon Condo
I focused purely on the starters to put the true difference in perspective………
April 27th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Huff,..first of all I dont go to bars,..secondly, I dont consider bloggers as “people”.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Lofton did wonders with the sorrr wr’s on the discharger team. I really like this post, even better than coach kiff’s. This give a decent insight to some of the questions we have had.
Jerry nice job.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Oak… I understand respect…and the lack of… if we simply … Ignore the Ignorant…. we’ll all be better for it… Raider fans are… well …all true fans… are both hopefull…and critical… when we start calling out individuals .. it becomes childish… *note to myself… call in my wife the daycare teacher… when things get outta hand*
April 27th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Tay,
Several huh’s, but I’ll just “inform” you that Mario was drafted last year, after Shell was fired.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Did some one pick up Ali Highsmith?
April 27th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Tonio,..you may be fooling some in here,..not me.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
AI - So you’re not a “people”? You just exempt from the list you created right?
April 27th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
NEver mind patsies got highsmith
April 27th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Anyways…gotta go. Peace.
April 27th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
again… I’ll say … Loften was a key offseason addition… he’ll help Curry… Higgins.. the new crew… all of them… and … The second year of Rathman… with the backs… including Bush…the new Crocket… goal line O should be awesome… and with Jamarcus’ arm… and Run DMC’s skinny legs… we should get there quickly…
April 27th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Tay-Henderson was drafted last year,not under Shells regime.Tonio-AD will never allow the Raiders to play the tampa 2 def.,regardless of what Kiffin would like.and besides,who says Kiffin wants to play that Def anyway.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
no thec, the cards got him
April 27th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Ai… there’s no attempt to fool you nor anyone else…only to add some “adult” sense to the childish lack of sense…that seeps in from time to time…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Nope,..not in here Im not.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
for UDFAs:
http://potencial.wordpress.com/2008/04/27/udfa-tracker/
April 27th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
Lefty… it was assumed …that Kiff was interested in it during the RR controversy…over the offseason..(though it was Kiff who said that RR wanted to leave himself…) and that Kiff was also very impressed with Indi’s style (tampa 2) of d… either way… my point is/was… that if the d doesn’t handle it’s business… RR will be gone… and Kiff will have a stronger oppinion on that side of the ball as well…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
also,
http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl
they’re on top of it
April 27th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Ok Tonio,..but youre not fooling me,..Im hip to your act….the others in here are a little slower,…but they will catch on to your identity sooner or later,..probably later knowing the lack of intelligence in here.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Tonio, you are exactly right. Rob’s gone after the season. Kiff will get his own guy at that point, most likely Raheem Morris from Tampon Bay.
Lefty I am still a Dline guy. They just went in a different direction, not the way I would’ve gone, but I can see what they are doing. Hopefully it works.
Dick V. See above. I feel the same way. I would’ve gone in a different direction, but hey, we’re all Raiders so….
April 27th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
Huff24, I love that idea of Bush and McFadden in th I.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:08 pm
/Ai,,, I’m taking my own advise…
Oak…I agree… but… if ..if…RR’s schems work this year.. do you think he’ll get an extention…?
April 27th, 2008 at 10:08 pm
Initially i did not like the Tyvon Branch pick, but after they explained his potential to be a solid Safety one day and be an instant performer on specials I was sold. The bottom line is that every team makes a draft board and usually tends to pick the player at the top of the board. Branch was obviously at the top of the board and he was a far more superior talent to the other players that were maybe more of a stretch. The only thing I can see as being better at this pick is the top DE or top O-lineman.
I couldn’t tell you who the Raiders liked for their zone blocking scheme so I don’t know who I would have prefered the Raiders to draft at that position over Branch.
DE’s/ pass rusher taken between pick 100 and 126 that Oakland owned were Bryan Kehl, Kenny Iwebema, and Jeremy Thompson. Marcus Howard from Georgia is someone i was watching and was wanting at that pick, but he was not picked until the colts pick in the later part of the 5th rnd. I have heard all four of those players interviewed on Sirius and have seen all the draft evaluations before and after the draft. None of them were guys that had the upside of tyvon Branch; thus, i give the Raiders credit for taking the best player on the board, and not reaching on a player. Branch might be the next Kerry Rhodes or Bob Sanders: if that is the case the Raiders will be called genuises.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Tonio-you are assuming that Kiffin will still be the HC.if we have a bad year,he probably will be fired along with RR(i hope not).my point is people on this site are the ones who said Kiffin wanted to hire his dad and implement the tampa 2-Kiffin never said any of that.in fact i would bet he doesn’t want to have his father work for him.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I
April 27th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Tonio,..dont panic,..I will not disclose your “true” identity…I will let this blog full of Einsteins figure it out for themselves,…goodnight.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
lefty12 you are a free thinker, very insightful. You’re closer to right than even you might believe.
Nothing wrong with a wait and see attitude because there’s much wisdom in that. The past few years do not inspire optimism so hope for the best but expect somewhat less and you’ll probably be right on.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
Lefty… yes … I assume Kiffin will be here…yet I don’t assume we’ll have a bad year either way… hopefully he won’t be fired… I dont think he want’s his dad… but his dad’s ideals for deffense…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
I’ll give you points for your comedy Ai…(artificial intel..)
April 27th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
I thought the Tyvon Branch pick was an excellent pick. The problem that I see that others don’t see is Nnamdi is NOT signed. He may NEVER sign. So, that being said, Branch was a very solid pick and a very good special teamer in the meantime.
Tonio, one of two things is going to happen. If the Defense tanks. Ryan is gone. If the defense really excels, Ryan is out of contract, would be a very hot commodity and will be gone. I’d be shocked if RR was here a year from now.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Oak… I”m hoping that we’ll do well enough that RR will be able to also grow with our young talent… if not… your point(s) are well taken… It’s very likely he’ll be gone…either as a HC or …as an assistant HC with his brother next year… and the fact that Nnamdi’s not signed…sickens me… he’s got to be or the Hall trade was for not… I think (hope) he has enough hope himself in what’s here that he see’s it’s a stroung foundation that’s being built here…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
Priest-thanks coming from you that means alot to me.i believe you and i think alot alike-at least that’s the way it seems.it probably will never happen but i think we could sit down,have a beer,and have a very nice conversation about our team.Tonio-AD decides the ideals for our def.,not any coaches.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:21 pm
After reading Knapps comments it’s clear we are going to run the ball 65% to 35% pass in my opinion. Unlike the ultra positive Ryan I believe what he has to say…at least a little bit.. He mentioned Wade and Harris as being great run blockers… I didnt know that I thought they were just average all around…
We can keep teams from running the ball if we are up a couple touchdowns…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:28 pm
Lefy…point taken…on AD and our D…I’m out for now Nation…New optomisom rises with the sun…
April 27th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
From an Arkansas newspaper….
McFadden’s exploits both on and off the field at Arkansas have been well documented. He’s the 2006 and 2007 Doak Walker Award winner, twice runner-up in the Heisman race, the SEC’s second all-time leading rusher with 4, 589 yards, 41 touchdowns and the single-season SEC all-purpose yard leader with 2, 310 yards. He did all that in a one-dimensional offense with him along with his running mate Felix Jones being marked men.
While those numbers are gaudy, they don’t tell the full tale.
He’s 6-2, 215 pounds of all muscle, he runs a 4. 33, had the deadliest stiff arm in the college game for three seasons, had the knack for the game-breaking run like no other back the SEC has seen since Bo Jackson and he has great hands that were not utilized enough during his career with the Hogs.
But, contrary to what some so-called experts think, McFadden also runs with power. In case you forgot, some sports writers claimed he was running too physically through Arkansas’ first four games last season for fear of him getting hurt because of too much contact.
His long runs have been featured in his highlight reel on ESPN, but don’t think he didn’t grind for his share of tough yards. Check the tape from last year’s Alabama game. He didn’t earn an easy yard all night and if he had not have been held out of most of the fourth quarter for precautionary measures, he would have gone for 200 plus against the Tide.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:30 pm
OG,
Great points about RR, but if the D does it’s thing this year, he could be back. Could he really go somewhere and have the type of talent he has here? Especially young talent.
Then again, he could probably make more money going somewhere else. Al is not going to pay him more than Kiffin, and there are a lot of DCs making close to what Kiffin brings home.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Look forward to it Lefty12
Adios guy’s
April 27th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
I agree - A lot of running next year just like last year - The difference is when we play action JaMarcus will bomb the ball more since we got Downhill fast recievers that we were lacking last year - Like Oakglenn said are recievers last year hardley ever broke away from the corners - This year will def be different - Things will be wide open in the middle for Zach Miller and the run game - I gurantee you there wont be 8 men in the box trying to stop our run on every single play like last year cuz they have to respect are recievers speed - Last year they dared us to throw the ball to win the game and are rec core was so weak we couldnt make them pay - It was crucial we got WR’s in this years draft especially with Drew Carter only being with us for 1 year unless he gets an extension
April 27th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Interesting pre-draft article in the Washington Post on Arman Shields:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202747.html
Got the link from Jason Jones’ blog.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
You guys are right. Mario was drafted last year. I still think that it speaks volumes when you dont even suit up. We gave up a lot for the guy so hopefully he will not be a complete waste.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:43 pm
My favorite thing about DMC is that he doesnt seem to have had many injuries. Considering Jordan and Fargas, it will be nice to have a durable back.
Peterson is all that, but I honestly dont think he wil last long in this league. His running style takes too much abuse. He has had his share of injuries.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
For all of those who are happy with branch selection, i would like to say: We took a CB 5′11 205 4.3 to play Safety, when S Josh Barrett 6′2 225 4.4 (and he was projected to be no lower than 4th round). Now he is on the Denver roster and will terrorize our receiver with big hits every time they will catch the ball
April 27th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
GRaider
Nice article - I like him already
April 27th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
# Oakglenn Says:
April 27th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Huff I think we are about to find out how good a coaching staff we really have. Davis provided the coaches with some incredible athletes. Incredible athletes!! The coaches are going to have to make players out of these guys. It’s up to the coaches now. Davis has done his job.
……
Well, you’re season’s set, isn’t it?
We win: Hooray for Davis.
We lose: Hooray for Davis…despite him being the only personnel official to be with the organization throughout the span of 6 straight losing seasons…
You have to be the biggest kool aid drinking Raider fan I’ve ever see on any forum, Oakglenn.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Have a good 1 nation
GO RAIDERS!!!!!
April 27th, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Thanks, DoeDoe. I had the same reaction - thought it was worth sharing.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Or that means we really dont have any returner on the roster (higgins, hall, DMC, Rhodes)
April 27th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Thanks maddenloser. They got the athletes, it’s up to the coaches. I don’t think I’m making much a stretch there. It’s obviously not all Davis, but this draft kind of reeks of old person smell.
April 27th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Cam13…post 92
Josh Barrett analysis from nfl.com
“Compares To: ADAM ARCHULETTA-Chicago.
Just like Notre Dame’s Tom Zbikowski and Archuletta, Barrett is a workout warrior who will greatly impress a team with his athletic ability, but all three fall under the “looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane” category.
He has the size that the football gods would wish for all safeties, yet needs to be prodded to play up to that level at a consistent pace. He has a litany of injuries throughout his career that makes you wonder if Alan Alda and the M*A*S*H unit is going to be needed on the sideline.
It is humorous that some experts compare him to Washington’s LaRon Landry. While impressive athletically, he lacks the power, football intelligence, consistency and ability to change the tide of the game the way Landry does.”
Sorry, but I´m not scared, sounds like Derrick Gibson only worst.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
I´ll take Tyvon Branch thank you……
“Compares To: EUGENE WILSON-Tampa Bay.
Pick Analysis:
Branch is strong, fast and has started for four years. His measurables have been exceptional. Branch’s strong workout numbers compare to only five other players at his position and four have played in the Pro Bowl, while the fifth is a quality contributor in the NFL.
Branch possesses exceptional range and good ball skills in the secondary, but he made a name for himself as a kickoff returner in 2007, establishing school records while leading the Big East Conference with an average of 28.89 yards per return.
Regarded as the fastest cornerback in college football, his ability to compete for the ball in flight and make plays in run support could see him shift to free safety at the next level.”
NFL.COM
April 27th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
ok, i thought he would be great.
But i like the last pick. I was all for M Monk, but this is a good pick too i think.
Now bring UDFA OL at the Alameda facilities
April 27th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Oakglenn, It is Al Davis’s responsibility to put a winning team on the field, period. Every organization has a top guy, and in Oakland, its Al Davis. If the coaches fail, it is Al Davis’s fault. It’s his fault for either not hiring the right coaches, perhaps because he no longer has the ability to spot them, or because he was meddling and creating an unworkable atmosphere for them. It’s one or the other. If the Raiders stink it up this year, and they very likely will, Al Davis will be the one sole person who’s been here since the losing debacle began in 2003.
Scapegoating Kiffin will not exonerate Al Davis in the event of a losing 2008 season. Believe me, there will be an avalanche of criticism crashing down on Mr. Davis from both inside and out the Raider Nation if this team tanks this year, and the efforts of the Davis loyals to downplay Al’s accountability will fall on deaf ears.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
OakGklenn, you’re wrong again. Branch was drafted as a Safety read Rob Ryan Q & A to educate yourself. Branch has no bearing on Nhamdi they play different positions according to “your” guy Rob Ryan.
Oakglenn Says:
April 27th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
I thought the Tyvon Branch pick was an excellent pick. The problem that I see that others don’t see is Nnamdi is NOT signed. He may NEVER sign. So, that being said, Branch was a very solid pick and a very good special teamer in the meantime.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
Bob, what do you think of the pix??
April 27th, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Wrong again mista. He plays both positions.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Knapp is a very sharp guy, contrast his Q & A to Rob Ryans and its like night & day.
I like this Q & A format thanks Jerry
April 27th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Here you go OakGlennnnnnnnnnnnn
Q: Are you looking at Tyvon Branch as a safety or a corner?
Ryan: We think he’s going to be a safety for us.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:09 pm
Oakglenn, the 2008 Raider season is ALL on Al Davis. Every single bit of it is riding on Davis’s shoulders. Kiffin will be fine. He’ll get on at Denver or Tampa Bay. Knapp is already a lock in Seattle. Rob Ryan will probably get a gig somewhere else in the league under management that will finally allow him to implement a 3-4 zone scheme, the poor guy’s freakin’ life long dream.
Everyone will come out unscathed, except for Al Davis. He’ll have to raise your ticket prices tenfold to cover the salaries he’ll have to pay the mediocre Javon Walkers to come here.
Scapegoating is sad science, Oakglenn. And only the foolish believers buy it.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
OakGlenn, Im aware that in College he played both positions but he is in the NFL now, are you aware of that ?
His position coach said he is going to play safety in the NFL, they drafted him to play safety so Nhamdi not being signed doesnt amount to a damn thing regarding Branch.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
We “think” he’s going to be…..
What is wrong with you brown????????? Are you just plain stupid??? You are the dumbest person in here. Look at what Ryan says. He’s never even seen Branch. Branch plays both. They’ll find a spot for him I’m sure. God damn you are dumb.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
I like what im hearing!Hopefully no injuries kick in on key positions and we will have a winning season!
April 27th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
OakGlenn you have alot of guys fooled on this blog Im just not one of those guys.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
Well if the DC “thinks” he is going to play safety why do YOU think otherwise ?
April 27th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
Brown you’re one guys that really is not very sharp, so I am glad to hear that. Personally I love hearing that.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
OakGlenn, you are the ingrate that told everybody on this blog the NYG hardly blitzed in the SB. I had the game on DV-R and knew differently and found that the NYG blitzed 13 times in that game and my DV-R cutoff halfway through the 4th quarter so it could have been more.
And you’re calling me dumb..
April 27th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
Oakglenn, you sure are acting like you’re happy about this draft. Just real calm, collective, and exuding a quite confidence. You’re not going off on temper tantrums or anything…
April 27th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Well, Rob Gallery projected to be a LT. Right now genius Brown he’s playing LG. And he was the 2nd person taken. You”d think they might have more info on the 2nd guy taken than a guy taken 140th. Here you have a guy who plays both. Maybe they’re going to move Huff. What if Nnamdi doesn’t sign??? You’re not gonna try him out there??? Unbelievable. Brown you are unbelievable.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
goodnite maddenlosers
April 27th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
Buzz up!
NFL Draft
In Davis’ world, it’s athlete over pressing need
David White, Chronicle Staff Writer
The Raiders really need a defensive end who can rush the passer from the left side, someone like Virginia’s Chris Long or Ohio State’s Vernon Gholston.
They also could use a disruptive defensive tackle who can bottle up the holes in the run defense, like LSU’s Glenn Dorsey or maybe USC’s Sedrick Ellis.
Come to think of it, it wouldn’t hurt them to draft a franchise left tackle who can pass protect, like Michigan’s Jake Long.
With all these glaring needs, which college player has most caught the fancy of Raiders owner Al Davis?
Arkansas running back Darren McFadden, of course, the most dashing, explosive, athletic prospect in the land.
“I have heard Al Davis wants Darren McFadden and everybody’s trying to swing him,” draft icon Mel Kiper Jr. said.
That won’t be easy. Where Davis has a will, all others in the building do well to get out the way while the option is still voluntary.
Two years ago, Davis blamed former coach Art Shell for drafting safety Michael Huff instead of quarterback Matt Leinart. Last season, he blamed unnamed members of the coaching staff for trading Randy Moss for draft-day change.
This time, there will be no wondering who is responsible for the Raiders’ first pick of the draft, which will be the fourth overall Saturday. Davis has made it clear he is in full control of football operations. Second-year coach Lane Kiffin has taken to calling Davis the team’s “general manager,” simply so there’s no wondering.
Whomever the Raiders end up drafting, all future credit (or blame) goes to the man atop the pyramid chart.
“The way I understand Al Davis,” NFL.com draft analyst Mike Mayock said, “is since the 1960s, it’s pretty much been his decision 100 percent.”
That’s why the majority of mock drafts have the Raiders selecting McFadden - Davis’ idea of a dream player - despite their obvious needs in run defense and pass rushing.
They don’t seem to need another running back, but Davis loves McFadden’s hyper-speed button.
Oakland already has Justin Fargas, Dominic Rhodes, LaMont Jordan and Michael Bush in the backfield, but Davis adores McFadden’s getaway speed.
The Raiders had the NFL’s sixth-best running game last season, but can Davis truly resist the sight of McFadden on the board?
“It’s a great question,” Mayock said. “I asked myself the same question 30 times. You’re right about Al Davis. He is infatuated with speed.”
Kiffin repeatedly told reporters “running back is not really a need for us” when asked about McFadden at the NFL owner meetings last month. Kiffin repeatedly said the team really could use some help on the defensive line, so at least everyone knows where he stands on the issue.
“Who knows what will happen?” said one league source with knowledge of the team’s inner workings. “There’s only one person who knows. We all know who makes that decision. Everyone else will see when we get there.”
As Raiders fans know by now, Davis has a thing for “the best available athlete.” He craves playmakers who change games with undiluted skill and brilliant speed. When McFadden ran the 40 in 4.33 seconds at the NFL combine, he apparently rocketed up the Davis chart.
McFadden does come with several carry-ons. In three years of college, he was involved in two nightclub altercations, fathered one child and is awaiting results from a second paternity test involving another woman. That has some team officials “nervous,” according to one longtime team observer.
Davis doesn’t let nonfootball issues come between him and exceptional players. He didn’t hesitate trading for Moss in 2005 or DeAngelo Hall this offseason.
“I heard he fell in love with McFadden when he ran a 4.3 at the combine,” Todd McShay of Scouts, Inc. said. “At the end of the day, he makes the pick, so what’s it matter? We’ve all heard the war stories. They spend hours watching tapes, this and that, set up the board, he walks in and takes a player (who’s) already crossed off.”
Consider that one of the perks of owning the keys to the team. McFadden, for one, was flattered by the attention Davis gave him in a recent visit to Alameda.
“I’m just a guy from little ol’ Arkansas meeting a legend like him,” McFadden blogged. “That was great.”
It won’t take long Saturday to see how deep the mutual feelings run.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/04/21/SPR5108V8O.DTL
April 27th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Gallery is playing guard because he failed at LT. Are you telling me you’re going to make Branch a safety and if he fails move him to DB ????
Oak, think before you frantically type some idiotic krap on here.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Goodnight, Oakglenn. Go sleep it off, man. You’re worked up.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
Oakglenn Says:
April 27th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Thanks maddenloser. They got the athletes, it’s up to the coaches. I don’t think I’m making much a stretch there. It’s obviously not all Davis, but this draft kind of reeks of old person smell.
__________________________________
I thought I caught a few whiffs of that particular fragrance all the way up here.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
Uh oh, Brown. Looks like you and me are the same person, according to Oakglenn.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
You have a very very weird infatuation with Oakglenn both of you. Oakglenn is very solid as a poster here. You’re both weird.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Bomb, they’re the losers trying to mess up the blog. Their49ers.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Yeah hes solid..
lol
April 27th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
Jessie dont flatter yourself.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:28 pm
brown didn’ you say you didn;t know anythign about the college players??? well seems like you don’t. The guy played both safety and corner. Ryan said he “thinks” they’ll do this with him. Oakaglenn is right. You’re kind a weird fella
April 27th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Brown where did you learn about football?? playing madden video right/
April 27th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
bomb the other one is a bigger loser. go away whiner fan
April 27th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
raiders signed WU RB louis rankin as a UDFA
April 27th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
Louis Rankin, RB, Washington
Name: Louis Rankin
College: Washington Number: 9
Height: 6-1 Weight: 200
Position: RB Pos2: KR
Class/Draft Year: rSr/2008
40 Time: 4.48 40 Low: 4.38 40 High: 4.57
Projected Round: Stock: High: Shot late Low: PFA Monday
Rated number 36 out of 187 RB’s 460 / 2546 TOTAL
Combine Results
Pro Day Results
Combine Invite:
Height: 6005
Weight: 200
40 Yrd Dash:
20 Yrd Dash:
10 Yrd Dash: 225 Lb. Bench Reps:
Vertical Jump:
Broad Jump:
20 Yrd Shuttle:
3-Cone Drill:
Dates: 03/14/08
Height: 6005
Weight: 200
40 Yrd Dash:
20 Yrd Dash:
10 Yrd Dash: 225 Lb. Bench Reps:
Vertical Jump:
Broad Jump:
20 Yrd Shuttle:
3-Cone Drill:
Draft Scout Snapshot: DS Rating on 08/12/07: #38 RB, #383/750 Overall, Projected: PFA
12 GP; 2 GS; Rush: 142-666-4.7-4; Rec: 13-75-5.8-0 in ‘06. 7 GP; 7 GS; Rush: 104-485-4.7-1; Rec: 6-54-9-0 in ‘05. 8 GP; 0 GS; Rush: 9-35-3.9-0; KR: 10-230-23-0 in ‘04. Redshirted in ‘03.
2006 Season
Won the Husky Fever 12th Man (offense) award at the team’s postseason banquet … played in all 12 games at tailback … started vs. Arizona State and Oregon … led the Huskies in rushing with 666 yards on 142 carries, an average of 4.7 yards per rush … shared the team lead with four rushing touchdowns … finished the season ranked eighth in the Pac-10 in rushing at 55.5 yards per game … also fourth on the team (and first among non-wide receivers) in receiving with 13 catches for 75 yards … posted three 100-yard rushing games during the season … opened the year rushing for 145 yards and two touchdowns on only 10 carries vs. San Jose State … scored on runs of 34 and 68 yards vs. the Spartans … followed that with a 17-carry, 112-yard game at Oklahoma … ran for 118 yards on 17 carries, including a 77-yard touchdown run, the Huskies’ longest play from scrimmage all season … also scored an eight-yard touchdown in the Apple Cup … rushed for 63 yards and caught two passes in win at Arizona … rushed for 88 yards on 22 carries at Cal … ran for 67 yards vs. Arizona State, when he also caught a season-high six passes for 46 yards … won the UW’s Pepsi Player of the Week Award after the Washington State win.
2005 Season
Started the first seven games of he year before being sidelined with a toe injury … rushed for 112 yards in first-career start vs. Air Force … is the first UW back since Corey Dillon (1996) to top 100 yards in his starting debut … average of 4.7 yards per carry in 2005 was highest by UW back with at least 100 carries since 2001 … also caught seven passes for 54 yards … was the first UW back since Rich Alexis (2004) with three 100-yard games in one season … ironically, Alexis also appeared in only the first seven games that year … set a new career high with 115 yards on 19 carries vs. Idaho … scored his first career touchdown on 48-yard run vs. the Vandals … ran 18 times for 109 yards at UCLA … also had a 50-yard touchdown run called back against the Bruins for holding.
2004 Season
Appeared in eight games, including each of the final six … was a regular on special teams as a kick returner … saw first career game action at Notre Dame, gaining 25 yards on five carries … returned kicks last five games of the year … had a 53-yard kick return at Oregon, longest of the year by a Husky … also had a 46 yard kickoff return vs. California.
2003 Season
Redshirted the season … received the Bob Jarvis Award as Offensive Scout Squad MVP following the season … also earned a weekly scout-squad MVP honor, for his work prior to UW’s win over Oregon State.
High School
Scored 41 touchdowns as a senior to rank second in California … 41 touchdowns was top mark ever for Stockton prep player and fifth best mark by a San Joaquin Section player … 34 of Rankin’s touchdowns came on the ground … rushed for 2,245 yards … 14 receptions led to five scores and 272 yards …. Also scored twice on kick returns … first-team all-state pick by CalHi Sports as a multi-purpose player … team was 12-2 his senior season and won the San Joaquin League for the second consecutive season … reached the championship game of the Division I playoffs … team was 11-2 his junior season … one of 10 finalists for the Cal-Hi Sports California Mr. Football player of the year award … also a member of the Trojans’ basketball and track teams … named to PrepStar’s All-West Region team.
Personal
Parents are Cliff and Wendy Smith … planning to major in communications.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
Darren McFadden
Height: 6-11/4 | Weight: 211 | 40-Time: 4.33
Official Bio
Strengths:
An outstanding natural athlete…Has very good size…Excellent timed speed with a burst…Has great vision and instincts…Big play threat who can take it the distance at any time..Elusive with nice feet..Quick and agile…Real strong…Tough and loves contact…Runs hard and does not go down easy…Has decent hands and can be a weapon in the passing game..Plays with a nasty demeanor..Extremely productive.
Weaknesses:
Has some off-the-field and character questions…Legs and lower body are a little thin….Might run too high and open himself up to big hits…Could still improve as a blocker…Does not have a ton of experience as a receiver…Did not really play in a conventional offense in college and shared the workload…Ball security is an issue.
Notes:
Burst onto the scene as a true freshman…The Heisman Trophy runner-up as both a sophomore and a junior…In the summer of ‘06 he dislocated his toe (which later required surgery) while trying to kick someone during a fight outside a night club at 4am…In January of 2008 was handcuffed during a disturbance outside of a bar shortly after midnight because according to the police report he was agitated and provoking aggressive behavior inciting the incident….Often worked as a shotgun quarterback in the Razorbacks “Wildcat” package and showed the ability to throw the ball…Pure football player with all the physical tools who is as good or perhaps an even better prospect than Adrian Peterson was coming out…A rare talent who should rank amongst the top running backs in the NFL very early in his pro career.
Career Statistics
Year GP Att Yds Avg TD Rec Yds TD
2005 11 176 1,113 6.3 11 14 52 0
2006 14 284 1,647 5.8 14 11 149 1
2007 12 304 1,725 5.7 15 21 164 1
Totals 37 764 4,485 5.9 40 46 365 2
April 27th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
Tyvon Branch
Height: 5-113/8 | Weight: 204 | 40-Time: 4.31
Official Bio
Strengths:
Has terrific size and bulk…A great athlete….Outstanding timed speed…Tough and physical…Will come up and support the run…A reliable tackler…Smart with a great football IQ…Good instincts and awareness…A respected team leader…Three-year starter with a lot of experience…He should also contribute as a special teams ace.
Weaknesses:
Does not have very good hands or ball skills…Hips aren’t fluid and he struggles to transition…May not be a perfect fit for every team…He could be forced to make a position change…Is not a playmaker…Doesn’t always play up to his measurables.
Notes:
Also being looked at as a potential safety…As a prep he was named the Gatorade New York State Track Athlete of the Year and won the 2004 National Indoor Track Championship in the 60 meters (6.82)..Was arrested in May of 2005 when he and some teammates shot out a car window with a B.B. gun…Does a much better job in zone coverage than he does in man..Workout Warrior with prototypical triangle numbers..Snuck up on people as a pro prospect but he really is the total package.
Career Statistics
Year GP TKL PBU INT YDS
2004 12 20 0 0 0
2005 11 42 4 2 15
2006 12 79 4 1 0
2007 13 89 10 0 0
Totals 48 230 18 3 15
April 27th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Arman Shields
Height: 6-03/4 | Weight: 194 | 40-Time: 4.44
Official Bio
Strengths:
Nice size and bulk…Good timed speed and can get some separation..Decent route runner…Excellent hands…Good body control…Is tough and aggressive..Works the middle of the field….Adequate blocker…Consistent and productive…Return ability?
Weaknesses:
Isn’t very explosive and lacks a burst…Marginal ball skills…Not a great leaper…Is not very strong or physical…He may have some health and durability issues…Not real elusive and won’t do much after the catch…Level of competition is a concern.
Notes:
Had his senior season cut short by a knee injury…Nice small school prospect who could be undervalued after not playing much in ‘07…Tested extremely well at the Scouting Combine ( finished in the top ten at his position in all seven of the main events )…May never be a star but has the talent to make a roster and contribute.
Career Statistics
Year GP Rec Yds YPC TD
2003 DNP - - - -
2004 10 30 320 10.7 4
2005 13 62 842 13.6 4
2006 10 54 643 11.9 5
2007 3 14 125 8.9 0
Totals 36 160 1,930 12.1 13
April 27th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Kick returner?? That’s what this guy would be??
April 27th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Trevor Scott
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 256 | 40-Time: 4.54
Official Bio
Strengths:
Has a large frame with room to get bigger…Real good athlete with above average speed…Aggressive with a non-stop motor…Very quick off the edge…Hard worker with terrific intangibles…A real beast in the weight room…Has some special teams potential…Offers some versatility…Very productive….Still has quite a bit of upside.
Weaknesses:
Did not play against top competition…Doesn’t have the bulk that you look for…Is not very strong or physical…Still very raw in terms of his technique…Questionable instincts..Not stout at the point…Poor run defender..May not have a true position.
Notes:
Was a backup tight end the first two years of his college career and finished with 9 receptions for 97 yards…Could also project to outside linebacker or tight end at the next level…An extremely intriguing developmental prospect who will likely be a project but certainly has some tools to work with…Best fit may be as a 3-4 OLB.
Career Statistics
Year GP TKL TFL SACK
2003 DNP - - -
2004 10 0 0.0 0.0
2005 7 0 0.0 0.0
2006 12 45 13.5 9.0
2007 12 46 15.0 10.0
Totals 41 91 28.5 19.0
April 27th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
Meaning Rankin. He would be a kick returner??
April 27th, 2008 at 11:41 pm
rankin is pure camp fodder, he’s unlikely to make the roster, and if he explodes in camp and wins a spot it will be in place of rhodes
April 27th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
got it.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
Adam Spieker
Height: 6-21/8 | Weight: 308 | 40-Time: 5.31
Official Bio
Strengths:
Adequate size and bulk…Real strong..Tough and aggressive..Intense with a great motor…Technically sound…Smart with excellent instincts and awareness…Durable and plays through pain….Hard worker and team leader….Has a ton of experience.
Weaknesses:
Is not a great natural athlete…Poor balance and agility…Is not very quick or light on his feet…Will get pushed back and he isn’t stout at the point…Limited mobility and struggles in space…Has short arms..Not powerful..Doesn’t have much upside.
Notes:
Last name is pronounced “SPEE-kerr”..Was a four-year starter in the Big 12…Real good college player who just does not have the physical tools you look for at the next level..Could compete for a roster spot as a backup due to his top intangibles.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
Shane Simmons
Height: 6-11/4 | Weight: 239 | 40-Time: 4.63
Official Bio
Strengths:
Terrific speed and athleticism…Excellent instincts to read and react quickly…Has a great motor…A reliable tackler…Makes plays sideline to sideline…Smooth and fluid in coverage…Can take on and shed blockers…Tough…Smart with a good football IQ….Has a ton of special teams potential….Productive…A hard worker and leader.
Weaknesses:
Just average size and bulk…Didn’t play against top competition…Will need to get stronger…Isn’t real explosive and could stand to be more physical…Questionable awareness and ball skills…Is not a fit for every scheme…Minor durability concerns.
Notes:
Started out at Idaho but transferred following his true freshman season…Played outside linebacker early in his college career…Suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in ‘06…Has the talent and intangibles to make a roster with the right team.
Career Statistics
Year GP TKL TFL SACK PBU INT
2004 3 8 1.0 0.0 0 0
2005 10 66 8.5 5.0 2 1
2006 5 56 7.0 1.0 2 0
2007 10 125 6.0 2.0 2 0
Totals 28 255 32.0 8.0 6 1
April 27th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Speiker was the leader of a team that was ranked #1 in the country, til they lost the Big 12 championship game to Oklahoma.
BTW, thanks Bomb.
April 28th, 2008 at 12:09 am
Agreed, Kiffin has made it clear that McFadden is Al’s pick, so no blame is due if he fails. Smart guy.
April 28th, 2008 at 12:30 am
I don’t know. If the NFL decides to drop football in favor of track & field I think we’re in good shape. Otherwise this draft was disappointing.
What were our biggest areas of need:
1. DL
2. OL
3. LB
So, we used the No. 4 overall pick on a RB with huge bust potential and a bunch of unknown speedsters who will likely wind up competing for a spot on the practice squad.
I can live with the McFadden pick because I trust Kiffin will be creative and find ways to get him the ball in the right way where he can use his speed. I also think the Raiders should absolutely make him their kick returner right away. But I just can’t understand not doing more to address real areas of need. I still think they should have traded down, but it looks like if they had it would have been to draft the guys with the best 40 times regardless of their position, skill level or other considerations.
I still have a lot of hope for this season, but it’s certainly not because of how the Raiders handled the draft.
April 28th, 2008 at 12:41 am
do you think they didn’t address the lines issue because of the fact they had spent so much money there in free agency and resignings that they didn’t want to appear questioning their signings?
April 28th, 2008 at 12:53 am
Oakglenn, TT,
how’s damage control going?
April 28th, 2008 at 12:57 am
Tommy Trojan: this Spieker’s profile sounds rather interesting, and, as you may remember, i’m deeply concerned with getting o-line talent. why do you think he wasn’t at least a low draft pick? just too many guys for 7 rounds? (congrats on getting your man, by the way).
April 28th, 2008 at 12:58 am
Maybe Hobs.
They do have Kelly, Joseph, Sands and Warren at DT, but I thought they could’ve used a true run stuffer like Red Bryant.
At DE there’s Burgess, Richardson (who could be very good based on what he showed as a rookie), Edwards and the kid from Buffalo. So there is some potential there too.
I guess I was disappointed they passed on guys like Xavier Adibi, Geno Hayes and Red Bryant, who would have really added some depth to the defense and hopefully helped stop the run. I’ve seen those guys play great on several occasions and it seems like they have the measurables to play in the NFL. Who knows though. Obviously the coaches and scouts are watching all these guys very closely and know the game well. I just worry that we’re drafting the best scouting combo stat sheet guys and not the best football players once again.
On second thought, I think O-Line is actually a bigger need and we should’ve done something there.
On the plus side, I’d never seen Tyvon Branch before but he looks amazing on his highlight clips and his speed is obviously awesome. I love that he can play Safety and can hit as well as run. Mayock said he could become the best gunner on special teams in a very short time. That would be a nice addition to go along with Coop.
April 28th, 2008 at 1:28 am
Chris in NY, they can always go get an unsigned free agent like big boy Grady Jackson and rotate him out every other play or two when he gets tired.
April 28th, 2008 at 1:29 am
Is Ted Washington still playing anywhere?
April 28th, 2008 at 1:34 am
Just reviewed all of the comments from today, and Coach on Wheels remains the undisputed champion. He owns this place.
TT tried as hard as he could to drown out the criticism by posting extra long articles from other papers breaking down the picks, but to no avail.
I’m also convinced now that the Alameda Insider who posts here anymore is not the same Alameda Insider that posted here a few months ago, the one who insisted Kiffin will be gone, and oft criticized Davis’s style. The new Alameda Insider is possibly the biggest kool aid drinking homer here anymore, at least this side of Oakglenn. I’ve never seen two people more opposite than the old AI and the new AI. Had we signed the pro bowl roster this off season, AI’s flip