Rookie minicamp report
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Friday, May 9th, 2008 at 4:00 pm in Oakland Raiders.
There were some encouraging signs, but “fantasy camp” being what it is, there was nothing shocking about the first day of the Raiders rookie minicamp other than the sight of Rob Ryan with short hair.
The “fantasy” reference, used by some teams around the league, has to do with the miniscule chance many of the campers have of actually making the team.
Ryan got the haircut for charity _ the friend of one of his children urged him to visit the barber for “Locks of Love,” a non-profit group which provides hairpieces for financially disadvantaged children who have lost their hair due to a medical condition.
As for the rest of Day 1, the thing coach Lane Kiffin seemed most pleased about was a relatively smooth 90-minute practice with 41 players who had never set foot on the field as a team at the same time.
There was only one turnover _ an interception thrown by quarterback Jeff Otis to Ronnie Pentz, a linebacker out of the University of San Diego in on a tryout basis.
“So many of these, you see guys going the wrong way, run into each other, balls on the ground and guys are getting lined up (improperly),” Kiffin said. “I was very impressed with the players today as far as their carryover from what they learned last night and this morning.”
Among the Day 1 snapshots:
– Running back Darren McFadden seemed to handle the ball less than either Michael Bush or Louis Rankin, the latter an undrafted free agent out of Washington. Kiffin said the three were getting snaps on an equal basis.
McFadden made a couple of nice bursts up the middle and once was stacked up outside before breaking free, as defenders are not allowed to make tackles. He never caught pass in a scrimmage situation, at one point flaring into the open as quarterback Brian White, an undrafted free agent out of Portland State, went in another direction.
– Bush ran with a smooth athleticism that belied his size at some 250 pounds, and looked natural catching a pass over the middle and pulling away from a linebacker. He glided through holes, and it will be fascinating in July to see what happens the first time a defender really attempts to lay him out.
– During one receiving drill, wide receivers Drisan James, Marcel Reese, Todd Watkins, Chaz Schilens and Arman Shields all had drops, getting varying degrees of critique from wide receivers coach James Lofton.
Things went much better in actual scrimmage or seven-on-seven drills against defenders. James got loose behind undrafted free agent David Lofton for a long gainer with White connecting on the pass. Lofton came up injured on the play and left the field with the athletic training staff.
Lofton, who played at Stanford and last season in the Canadian Football League, is the son of James Lofton.
– Sam Keller, an undrafted free agent in on a tryout basis, got a handful of snaps and threw the ball as well as White and better than Otis, with Erik Meyer getting extremely limited work at quarterback.
His best pass might have been a touch pass into the middle of the field which glanced off the hands of undrafted free agent tight end Darrell Strong of Pittsburgh.
Keller, a local high school star at San Ramon Valley High, started at Arizona State but transferred to Nebraska when Sun Devils coach Dirk Koetter reversed an earlier position and made Rudy Carpenter the starting quarterback instead.
Carpenter not only had the support of his teammates, but of former Sun Devil quarterback Andrew Walter. Keller and Walter would be teammates again if he earns a contract this weekend.
– Keller was in Tampa for a tryout with the Bucs last week. The Bucs, with seven quarterbacks under contract, did not offer to make Keller the eighth but he he remains on file because of his knowledge of the system, having played under Bill Callahan at Nebraska.
With the Raiders holding their rookie camp a week later than most teams, it gives them a chance to have players in who tried out for other teams but were not signed.
Rookies present at the current minicamp will not be eligible to be in Alameda next week when veterans begin coming in for organized team activities.
– Pentz, the linebacker who came up with the lone turnover of the practice, found success is a play-to-play proposition. He was victimized on the next two plays, the first a pass from Otis to Bush over the middle and again when White hit Rankin on a flare pattern to the right.
– The linebacker who seemed to be getting to the ball first most often, although unable finish plays, was Malik Jackson of Louisville, who was drawing praise from Ryan and linebackers coach Don Martindale.
– Kicker Andrew Larson of Cal was brought in, and he spent almost all of his time alone with one member of the supporting staff, attempting field goals.
– During scrimmage sessions, the offensive linemen getting the most work were Noah Sutherland (UCLA) at right tackle, Jonathan Palmer at left guard, Adam Speiker (Missouri) at center, Jesse Boone at left guard and Brandon Rodd at left tackle.
– Sutherland was one of 15 players not under contract who was brought in for a tryout. He was joined by Keller, Larsen, cornerback Brandon Hampton (Cal), cornerback Tim Sims (Stanford), cornerback Brian Williams (Washington State), David Lofton, defensive back Dominic Patrick (Arizona), Pentz, linebacker Greg Van Hoesen (Cal), defensive end Tranell Morant (Arizona), offensive lineman David Howell (Portland State), offensive lineman Shannon Tevaga (UCLA), defensive lineman David Faaeteete (Oregon), defensive lineman George Chukwu (Rice) and wide receiver Marcel Reece (Washington).
– When Kiffin first saw Ryan, he felt his defensive coordinator and his twin brother Rex, the defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens, were playing a prank.
“On Monday, when he came in, I really thought it was his brother in my office and Rob was around the corner,” Kiffin said. “I thought maybe his brother was coming to visit and they were playing a trick on me . . . I’ve never seen him with short hair. He looks exactly like Rex.”
– Safety Tyvon Branch, a fourth-round pick whose skill as a tackler was lauded by Ryan, said he didn’t know for certain he’d been switched to safety until he arrived at minicamp and saw himself listed as a strong safety on the depth chart.
Branch said he is more concerned with getting the opposing player down than he is delivering the big blow.
“I’m more of a wrap-up guy. I follow through on my tackles but I still wrap up,” Branch said. “I’m not one to throw my shoulders out there.”
– At 208 pounds and climbing, Branch, competing for the job of kickoff return specialist vacated by Chris Carr, will provide a bigger, more physical presence. Branch had two 97-yard kickoff returns for touchdowns last season at UConn.
“One of the returns I scored off was like a straight line return, one cut,” Branch said. “Then I had one where I made a couple moves, made a couple miss. I have a lot of versatility back there. It’s a thrill. It’s an adrenalin rush. Everybody’s coming out to kill you so you’ve got to do your thing out there or you’re going to get hurt.”
The Raiders did some special teams drills, but did not return any kicks Friday.
– Either Sheilds or Schiens have the physical stature to be the kind of big, fast outside receivers the Raiders are seeking in the JaMarcus Russell era, and both had their moments during scrimmage sessions.
With Shields playing just one game before suffering a torn posterior cruciate ligament, Kiffin likened him to Bush as a player who would have been drafted much higher had he not been hurt. Shields was taken with the Fabian Washington pick in the fourth round.
Kiffin said Schilens was taken largely on the strength of his postseason workouts and sounded like more of a work in progress.
“Schilens, after the season, ran a really good time and really impressed us in some workouts that he had after the season,” Kiffin said. “His film wasn’t as good, necessarily, but his offseason workouts were and we really felt he improved enough to take a chance on him.”
– “Chaz” is not short for Charles, but for “Chazeray” Schilens.
– Absent from practice was wide receiver Jonathan Holland, a seventh-round draft pick last season who spent the season on injured reserve because of an injured shoulder.
Kiffin said Holland was not allowed to play by the athletic training staff and would be re-avaluated.
– If Scott is going to play much this season, chances are it will be as a situational pass rusher. He said he weighs 255 pounds and was told by Keith Millard to stay at a weight which will help him retain his quickness, so he isn’t likely to morph into a base end any time soon.
A left end in college, Scott is lining up at right end with the Raiders, the opposite side of where Derrick Burgess starts.
– Visitors included wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff, who spent most of practice talking with Mark Davis, son of Raiders owner Al Davis, and former Raiders linebacker William Thomas.
Thomas spent practice with scouts Jon Kingdon and Calvin Branch, and is said to be interested in working in a personnel department. Thomas, one of the league’s top coverage linebackers with the Eagles and Raiders, retired after the 2001 season.
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May 9th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
408
May 9th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/05/09/SPQB10J8NV.DTL
good read
May 9th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
1st
May 9th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Sounds like somebody’s getting cut.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Let get ready to rumble.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Bush and DMac will will make the Raiders the #1 rush team in the NFL. Go Raiders!!!!!
May 9th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Per Schefter: Raiders and Chiefs interested in services of Koren Robinson (WR)
http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d8083cf35&template=without-video&confirm=true
May 9th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
Finally a Bush we can rally around
May 9th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
ocho
May 9th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
doh! nueve
May 9th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
doh! dos!
May 9th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Can’t wait to see him actually run thru some hits…
May 9th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
bah whatever
yeah so bush sounds like the real deal. Maybe he is, but I am looking to expect much of the same rhetoric this off/preseason as the media tries to find ways to scrap the DMAC pick.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
I hope he is the real deal: back to the days of a dominant backfield! I’M IN!
May 9th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
^^^ not paying attention to the haters… (never did)… it’s better… and getting better…
May 9th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
good post Jerry, if you guys wanna see the raiders camp today, turn you TVs to the NFL network, its comming now.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
NFL network now guys.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
that was quick.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Thunder (Bush) & Lightning (Dmc)
If both backs stay healthy, we lead the league in rushing.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
agreed 808 … Bush the next and improved crockett… DMC…Bo-Allen-light…
May 9th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
I DVR’d NFL NETWORK’S ALL ACCESS.
Did they have a good report of today’s practice?
May 9th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d8083e11a&template=with-video&confirm=true
May 9th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Tonio:
Bush would’ve have been a 1st round pick last year if he didn’t get hurt. He’s a beast with some burst. He’ll be a better rusher than Crockett.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
It’s not the video… but it’s the write up …
May 9th, 2008 at 5:06 pm
So some poor kid is going to be walking around with Rob Ryan’s hair?
I’m so ****ing ready for August.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:08 pm
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONTE JUNIOR!!!
May 9th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
808
Bush reminds me of Bettis, but with better hands.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
I almost have tears in my eyes. Best time of year. Everything is fresh, the sky’s the limit and dreams are being fulfilled.
Can’t wait till Aug.!
May 9th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
– Bush ran with a smooth athleticism that belied his size at some 250 pounds, and looked natural catching a pass over the middle and pulling away from a linebacker. He glided through holes, and it will be fascinating in July to see what happens the first time a defender really attempts to lay him out.
Music to my ears. I am really pulling for this guy.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
Jerry Mac…. Thanx for the kool-aid fix. I guess that AL does let you in now and again. Nice job, good read.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Awesome write-up Jerry. I know maybe 2-3 guys will make the final roster but it good to see (or read) how the process plays out.
Maybe Rob will coach like Rex now that his hair is short. Keep watching for the little kid wearing the RR wig. Nice move Rob. It’s good to see guys step up for kids in need.
Lofton pulled the old, “I got beat so I’m limping” bit? Hope he doesn’t turn into a scholarship case.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
lol at scholarship… just cuz daddy’s on the staff…
May 9th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Good read, I know it’s only the 1st mini camp but, to me it already looks as if walker is going to have to give up some of that playing time. I’m hoping for one of these rookies to step up and get some playing time. Who knows maybe Holland will be the one
May 9th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Jerry…. Be 1st. in line tomorrow,to talk with Bush. Need to hear more on him. Can’t wait to see him blowing up Linebackers & Safties. WOOOOOO.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:23 pm
TYVON BRANCH
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=43736
May 9th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
ARMAN SHIELDS
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=43712
May 9th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
TREVOR SCOTT
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=43726
May 9th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
CHAZ
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=43744
May 9th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Say.. I wanna second the “great write up” to you Jerry… You catch a lot of unnecessary flack in here when most don’t seep to appreciate that you’ve given us a form to speak to consistently… so Thanks J Man… Keep up the great work….
May 9th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Make it one more for my baby and one more for the road (some words to an old blues jazz song) which I’m listening to with a glass of cabernet sauvignon. So since I’m in a good mood and feeling positive and today was the start of mini-camp, I’ll take it as a good omen that this is the year. It’s great to hear that Bush is flying around smoothly at 250 pounds. What a load he bring, while MaFadden just burns them all with all his speed. Go Raiders.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
our future is now nation, quit giving al so much s**t
May 9th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
COW, are you still here?
May 9th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
WR’s are hit or miss. They usually take 3 years to develop so having a bunch of young guys makes it difficult in choosing which ones should stay. The mere fact that the Raiders are interested in Koren Robinson has to tell you something. They are looking for more secure talent and Robinson also returns kicks.
May 9th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
It sucks that all these guys can’t be at the OTA’s this upcoming week. It would be nice to hear some more stories on them.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
On NFL Network, the Chiefs #1 WR Dwayne Bowe was late to his first scrimmage and everyone was worried as to where he was. Yes…let the man mess up so he can’t play. JR threw to Bowe as they both played for LSU. Bowe was one of his top 2 targets. Craig Davis I think his name is, was JR’s other top WR and he was drafted by the Chargers. This all happened during last years draft.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Listed as SS, wow lol
Imagine THAT!
– Safety Tyvon Branch, a fourth-round pick whose skill as a tackler was lauded by Ryan, said he didn’t know for certain he’d been switched to safety until he arrived at minicamp and saw himself listed as a strong safety on the depth chart.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Forget Glenn Dorsey, we got George Chukwu:
George Chukwu DT 6′1 305.
“POSITIVES: Short interior plugger who plays hard until the whistle blows. Very quick off the snap, plays with good pad level, and doubled by opponents. Clogs the middle of the line, keeps his feet driving up the field, and shows great hustle. Instinctive and plays intelligent football.
NEGATIVES: Wears down over the course of the game and rotated in and out of the lineup. Struggles getting off blocks once engaged.
ANALYSIS: Chukwu is a high-energy defender and a penetrating tackle who’s built for a one-gap system.
CNNSI.COM
———————————————–
Another one:
“Overview:
Playing at Rice does not afford prospects much opportunity to show their wares on a national stage. But scouts saw that Chukwu could cause problems for offensive lines without a lot of talent around him.
He started at nose tackle in 2007, end in 2006 and tackle/nose in 2005, accumulating 14 total tackles for loss over his last two seasons.
Positives: Would fit perfectly in a one-gap system, using his quick first step to disrupt passing or running plays in the backfield….Wide body who can keep his shoulders square to stack and shed, gets off to bring down backs coming into the hole or trying to get outside.
Uses his hands well inside, preventing himself from being locked down by guards…..Also has over and under moves to get around a guard’s shoulder…..Blocked two extra points in ‘07 despite his small stature.
Negatives: Short, but not overly so…..Has some bulk, but only adequate strength and does not stand up well against drive blocking or double teams…..Plays hard, but wears down quickly so he may be regulated to a wave role….Second and third effort to get to quarterback or running back is not always there.”
CBS Sportsline.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
I’m here.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Practice squad one year…. spotted work the next.. by year 3 full bore… unless they’re top talent coming straight out of college like Bowe last year…
May 9th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Or not……
May 9th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
Nice info Bob… we’ve some good “young” talent in the works yall… I’m excited!
May 9th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Out for now… check in during the weekend… GOOD LUCK ROOKIES!!! Welcome to the Nation …
May 9th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Anybody know about the Malik Jackson?
Jerry, did he play at WILL? Seems too small for SAM or MIKE. Please share. Thanks.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
COW, why is burgess playing at RE and Jay at LE? in passing downs it works fine for burgess cause he is going against a slow RT, but in rushing downs he is pushed around by a strong RT, and for Jay he is a good match against RTs he is strong and has some speed, but against LT his speed is not enough to get pass a the fast good footed LT. they are playind the wrong DEs positions, why is that?
May 9th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
if they switch and play thier true positions, IMO that will help against the run more, and in passing downs jay rotate with a faster or a pure pass rusher, this will help the run and pass game.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Raider O - Where did you get that information from? Burgess is playing LE.
“A left end in college, Scott is lining up at right end with the Raiders, the opposite side of where Derrick Burgess starts.”
May 9th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Good to see Tom Cable bringing in two of his former UCLA OL in Noah Sutherland and Shannon Tevaga.
There´s info out there on Tevaga that I´ll try to post later but not much on Sutherland.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
sorry, misprint,i meant to say LE, its the kool aide.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
huff, you got me all confused, burgess plays RE, the base end position.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
and jay plays the weak side the LE.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Shannon Tevega
Height: 6-17/8 | Weight: 315 | 40-Time: 5.19
Official Bio
Strengths:
Excellent size and bulk…Very strong and physical….Aggressive….Nasty and has a killer instinct…Good power…Gets a nice push in the run game…Stout at the point of attack…Dominant once he locks on…Nice awareness…Has a ton of experience.
Weaknesses:
Not a great athlete…Is not very quick…Limited mobility and range…He has a lot of trouble pulling and getting to the 2nd level…Does not slide well laterally…Average in pass protection…Leverage is inconsistent…Poor balance…Stamina is a concern.
Notes:
Was a four-year starter….His brother, Sonny, also plays for the Bruins….Seriously considered entering the ‘07 NFL Draft after his junior year…Isn’t the top prospect his press clippings might lead you to believe…Could be a solid backup in the pros.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Raider O - The weakside position is the RDE position. Thomas Howard plays weakside linebacker and Richardson lines up on the weakside.
LDE is the strong side position where Burgess is with Robert Thomas lined up behind him at Strong Outside linebacker.
You have to view it as if you were the safety looking at the back of the defensive line.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
ok still he is still going against RTs and Jay is going against LTs and that is my consern, huff you got me so confused now,i know the right side of the field is the strong side and left is weak.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:44 pm
so taylor and DF play the strong side?
May 9th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Strong and weak have to do with offensive personal, not right and left.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Raider O - If you were the QB facing the defense, you would be right. As an offensive player, the weakside of a defense would be the left and the strong would be the right.
Again…I’m looking at it from a defensive perspective. If I’m playing on the defense and I’m the safety…the right side would be the weak and the left side would be the strong.
Usually…the strong side is dictated by where the TE is at. Its common for the TE to line up next to the RT, which is then considered the strong side.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Taylor and DF?
May 9th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
http://archive.profootballweekly.com/content/archives/features_2000/football101_052300.asp
Explanation of weakside and strongside.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
d freeney, and jason taylor.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
ok, burgess is going against RTs and jay is going against LTs, agree Huff?
May 9th, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Huff24
We had this discussion with BBB, two weeks back.
Let’s me restate what I think and have heard.
######################################################
Raider O Burgess plays the LDE in our defense, Richardson the RDE.
Burgess has played in college and with the Eagles the LDE prior to the Raiders signing him in FA as the LDE.
Burgess is left handed, he himself, “Burgess said in an interview he feels more comfortable with his left hand down in his stance, and his burst is quicker than playing the RDE”.
Burgess has been steady as our LDE, he has in three years 35 QB sacks, if you compare him to Jared Allen who just signed with MInn, at the RDE position, Allen sack totals are 34 QB sacks in three years.
Reggie White, Michael Strahan play the LDE, and to defunct your thought of RT being to slow, look no further than Lincoln Kennedy, and others who have played the RT position.
They are not the slowest just stronger at the point of attack.
Burgess has many detractors on this site, they say he is soft on the run, I disagree, he creates more mismatches for our three technique DT, who is now Kelly was Sapp to have a single blocker.
Burgess quickness is able to offset the RT with his strength and quick feet, as well as he get’s around the Tight ends and back who chip him on passing downs.
Burgess last year had a lingering thigh injury, which hurt his mobility, prior two years he held his gaps and covered the short side of the field with his speed.
Burgess at 265lbs is small for a LDE, but will utilize his quickness of the snap to create more inside gap tackles.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
now, in most teams the RT is the run blocker and LT protects the blind side of the QB, it seems to work in passing downs when burgess has to go against a slow but strong RT but in run downs it works against him. same for Jay he is going against a quick footed LT and jay is not that fast where he would be better playing against a RT and hold the point of attack.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Raider O - Thats correct.
RaiderDell - Good explanation and I agree with almost all of it. Like you said, the RT is more power than speed or athleticism. Thats what makes life a little more difficult for a guy like Burgess against the run. However, putting Burgess against a RT in a passing situation is what I would call…”Not fair”. Burgess is too fast and talented for most RT’s in this league and thats why its great to have a sack specialist on that side. I don’t think hes dominant in the run game but I do think he holds his own because hes a fighter and a hard worker but not the best.
Does Burgess help the other players on the line? Absolutely and it pains me to hear people wanting to trade our best defensive lineman.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
THX RD. and no i dont think burgess uder performs or is bad against the run, i just thought it would be better if jay was on that side, and burgess is a monster in passing downs had 8 last year with an injury.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
RD that made alot of sense thank you.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Raider - Exactly. It would make sense but you can’t deny the fact that Burgess had just as much success going against a RT then he might have had going against a LT. The common setup is to get a dominant pass rusher against a LT but its such an advantage to have a dominant pass rusher against a RT…you just have to hope he can stop the run as well. I think Chris Long would be a great against RT’s because hes complete. He can stop the run and rush the passer.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Do you guys think that Matt Ryan will have an impact like Peyton Manning? I remember Ryan being compared to Peyton.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
i never said he didnt have success, i wasnt talking about sacks, i was wondering if him and Jay switch that will help against the run more.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
http://www.jamarcusrussell.org/
Look who has his own site.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Ryan played or BC, who do they play, and still threw 19 INTs, not very good, and he doesnt have that arm like peyton.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Raider O - I know what you meant. Its an idea but this defense isn’t very creative or flashy so I don’t see much more happening than rushing 4, dropping linebackers into coverage and man on the outside. Maybe 4 blitzes a game. Everyone will probably stay in their same positions through that.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
Raider O
Jay Richardson was asked last year in camp why he plays the RDE, most west coast offenses throw the slant to that side , the RDE, which is the open side of the offense.
Usually you will have your best receiver play the X position on the open side, usually the ball placement after the down is moved and that side is usually has more field.(the reason we traded for Hall)
The case for Thomas Howard is why he is there also, as the Will linebacker, speed in the open field.
Richardson with his height and long reach can bat thrown balls down and disrupt the timing and passing lane for the QB.
Richardson is really not that slow, just has different athletic gifts than a pure rushing passer like Peppers, or Freeney.
Richardson quoted most of the reasons in this post, and was a better tackler in the open field than say Moses who we drafted in the third round.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Huff
I think Matt Ryan is a lot closer to Chad Pennington than to Peyton Manning. And I don´t mean it in a bad way, Chad was limited athleticlly but when healthy was a very good QB.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Wow. Top QB class of 2004. Eli Manning (Superbowl), Philip Rivers (AFC Championship) and Roethlisberger (Superbowl).
Thats pretty damn good to have 2 QB’s win a Superbowl so soon with the other getting to the AFC Championship game. Pretty solid draft class. Lets hope Rivers continues to be the odd man out.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Bob Marley - Pennington was a really good QB. He was very accurate. Its too bad the guy has been inury prone. He would have had a great career.
May 9th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Hey, talk about an intriguing prospect, check out this kid:
Washington WR-HB-FB Marcel Reece, 6′0 231, 4.42 Forty.
Overview
Having flown under the radar, Marcel Reece put together some eye-opening numbers in his college career. The one constant at each stop was his big-play ability.
In addition, he has proven to be such a punishing cut blocker, that teams are also seriously considering shifting him to fullback at the pro level.
Blessed with the size you look for in an H-Back or motion tight end, Reece displays superb explosiveness in his running stride. With his size, he is able to shield the ball from defenders. With his sudden burst, many defensive backs have been left behind on his 29 trips to the end zone.
He also has outstanding leaping ability and few opponents can out-jump Reece when goes up to catch the ball at its high point.
Reece was named the team’s Most Improved Player, as he took over flanker duties in 2007. He finished second on the squad with 39 catches for 761 yards (19.5-yard average) and eight touchdowns, including a 98-yarder against Arizona.
Reece was a three-sport standout at Hesperia High School, where he lettered in football, basketball and track.
Analysis
Positives: Well-built athlete with long arms, broad shoulders, tight abdomen, thick thighs and calves … Has the frame to add needed bulk without any drop-off in quickness, for a possible move to the backfield as a fullback or to be used as a motion tight end/H-back.
Physical position blocker who has nimble feet and does a nice job escaping the jam to get into his routes … Has excellent lateral agility and uses his hands well to lock on and ride the defender wide
Catches well in the short area and has an explosive initial burst off the snap to gain advantage over a lethargic defender … Uses his upper-body power well to get a good push off the defender to escape the jam.
Shows no hesitation attacking and neutralizing linebackers and keeps his pads down while showing the quickness to hook defensive ends inside on sweeps.
Has a good feel for the soft areas in the zone, using his frame well to shield the ball from the defender in man coverage.
Negatives: Has limited starting experience at the major-college level and no experience as a lead blocker for the running game (most are on sweeps or outside runs). Not shifty running after the catch, and is really a one-cut runner, but has the valid burst and leg strength to break arm tackles.
COMAPRES TO: SHANNON SHARPE-ex-Denver: The ideal role for Reece might require bulking up a bit, but get him with a team using the West Coast offense and make him an H-Back or tight end in motion and he might be a find.
He could also be effective as a slot receiver in that offense, as his size will create mismatches against safeties and cornerbacks.
The party line is that he is being looked at as a fullback, but Reese has too much speed to be relegated to blocking duties and has never played that position.
Aligning Reese at fullback would be placing a Mona Lisa in the garage. Put him front and center, with a role in the receiving unit, and you might just unearth one of the sleepers of this draft.
NFLDRAFTSCOUT.COM
May 9th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
thx you guys, now i really understand and that made a lot of sense, thank you.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Bob Marley - Wow. That guy sounds like a real steal. It just amazes me, the talent that truly exists out there and there are so many players who don’t make it because its a numbers game. Everything sounds good on paper, hopefully the guy can find a place with our team. I wouldn’t mind seeing him replace Madsen at TE while moving Madsen to WR. That would make the most sense if this guy panned out.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
John Madsen is 6′5 240lbs with the slender build of a WR. Think about that. I really think he should be at the WR position.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
The Reece kid was cut by Miami monday, he´s a bad fit for a Parcells offense which is nothing like the WCO, maybe he makes an impression here or maybe we´ll never hear his name again, but I like the kids we´re giving shots to.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Marcel Reese, Washington
Height: 6-0. Weight: 231.
Projected 40 Time: 4.53.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.42.
Benchx225: . Vertical: 36.5. Broad 9-6.
Projected Round: 7.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Reese’ Pro Day 40 Time was 4.42. Damn. Thats fast for a guy his size.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
If we added Koren Robinson and moved Madsen to WR…we would have:
Javon Walker, Ronald Curry, Drew Carter, Koren Robinson, John Madsen & Chaz Schilens (I believe).
That would be some really good depth in my mind.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
This guy could end up as our #3 QB. He was ranked #15 among QB’s on NFLDraftCountdown.com
Sam Keller
Height: 6-3 5/8 | Weight: 241 | 40-Time: 4.91
Official Bio
Strengths:
Adequate height and excellent bulk…Decent athleticism…Has shown the ability to make all of the throws…Relatively accurate for the most part with good touch and timing..Takes care of the football and isn’t afraid to check down..Can throw on the run…Is smart with a good football IQ…Intense and a great competitor…Extremely confident…Has shown flashes of greatness at times and might have some upside.
Weaknesses:
Arm strength is good but not great..Struggles under pressure and will make some poor decisions…Footwork and mechanics need refining..Mobility is merely average at best…Too conservative at times…Hasn’t been able to stay healthy so durability is a major concern…Still somewhat unproven…He ran into some minor off-the-field trouble..His personality can be perceived as cocky and rub people the wrong way.
Notes:
Father Mike was an All-American defensive end at Michigan and a third-round NFL draft pick of the Dallas Cowboys…Began his college career at Arizona State where he backed up Andrew Walter but transferred in ‘06 amid controversy after losing his starting job to Rudy Carpenter…Missed a lot of action due to an assortment of injuries and had his senior season cut short by a broken collarbone..Was cited for disturbing the peace in 2007…Developmental signal caller who has some physical tools to work with..Could surprise if he can stay healthy…Worth a late round flyer.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Huff
Yeah, a lot of talent out there….some people tend to sleep on UFA´s but go back to the Super Bowl and you will find 4 startes who were not drafted: NYG´s C Shaun O´Hara, G Rich Seubert and LB Antonio Pierce as well as NE WR Wes Welker.
I mean, of course they are longshots but you just never know.
May 9th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
keller, tevaga, and chukwu were 3 of my favorite UDFAs so it’s nce to see the personnel department and coaches are doing their homework
May 9th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Long time no see Tommy…
May 9th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Who be the MVMe? Kobe.
Utah finally matched L.A.’s intensity. Boozer was the man.
Keller would be a fine backup QB, but not sure he’s got the added “oomph” we’d like to see in a field general. Could develop it, but not if he’s a #3.
Andrew Walter, Ronald Curry, and next year’s 3rd-rounder to AZ for Anquan Boldin would serve so many purposes — not the least of which is adding another veteran stud to the offensive huddle.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
I´m all for bringing Koren Robinson to camp as well, at 28 he´s still a year younger than Curry. Won´t hurt to give him a long look, hopefuly he´s left his problems behind.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
100th
May 9th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Tommy Trojan:
Like the warden told Andy in the Shawshank Redemption: “Good you have you back Andy, the place wasn’t the same without you.”
Looking forward to your insights, again.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
Correction to TT:
“Good to have you back Andy, the place wasn’t the same without you.” Sorry.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:48 pm
I think when we get to camp, there will be daily oohs and aahhs about the exploits of one Michael Bush.
This kid is really going to be something special. I could definitely see this offense biult around him as the center piece. He’s going to bust some shoulders in camp when the pads start popping.
Sam keller is very talented if he sticks around long enough he could be a real find.
Everything I hear about Branch makes me think we really got one in him. The edge rusher from UW seems like a player Guenther whatever his name is.
I’ve seen scott before if he really works he could be everthing Moses wasn’t.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Marley — Wouldn’t it be nice to have one guy in that huddle who isn’t a “maybe?”
Robinson’s got great skills — and like Chris Henry, he’s literally pi$$ed-away a phenomenal career so far — but do we want another head case on the team? Potentially cheap camp fodder, but way too risky to give a roster spot to.
One more “character” veteran (who can still play), on both sides of the ball, is what I feel the team needs to finish the rebuild.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
BHP, we’ve been on that Bush bandwagon all along. HOF skills in a monster body, with great feet.
I like Bush.
May 9th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Right on HayesDaze, I just can’t wait to see young bull ramble. Try tackling that beast 10-15 times a game. He will be something to watch.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
I keep thinking Bush will be like Jamal Lewis, surprisingly fast and powerful. Before you know it, the guy’s got 75-yards on you in the 3rd, and he keeps getting the ball to grind-out the lead.
The lead that comes from our quick-strike offense.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I keep saying it’s going to be very difficult to keep that kid standing on the sideline, he’s just got it all. Most in here view him as a tough short yardage runner. He’s not a better version Crockett he’s nothing like Crockett he’s actually more like Ty Wheatley or like Chuck Munsie or Franco Harris. When fans in the Blackhole see this kid he will be a fan favorite.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Absolutely right. Far better than Crockett, with the same nose for the end zone.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:21 pm
Mighty quiet in here. The L.A. contingent must be lining up to jump off the Hollywood sign. Cheer-up boys and girls, it’s only one game.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Does anybody know where I could find a list of players that attended camp today?
May 9th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I thought for sure somebody would respond to that. I was shooting a flare to test the pulse in here. It truly is dead. Good night all.
May 9th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
# Riverside Raiders Fan Says:
May 9th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Make it one more for my baby and one more for the road (some words to an old blues jazz song) which I’m listening to with a glass of cabernet sauvignon. So since I’m in a good mood and feeling positive and today was the start of mini-camp, I’ll take it as a good omen that this is the year. It’s great to hear that Bush is flying around smoothly at 250 pounds. What a load he bring, while MaFadden just burns them all with all his speed. Go Raiders.
……
LOL.
Let your pre Laker game optimism be an indication of how effective your Raider pre season optimism will be.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
>>He’s not a better version Crockett he’s nothing like Crockett he’s actually more like Ty Wheatley or like Chuck Munsie or Franco Harris.
Oooooo-k one mini-camp walkthrough and now he’s “like Franco Harris” This board is a friggin joke.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Cinemax is on fire tonight…much like Boozer.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
MR post 113:
No problem with the Lakers. They took the first two at home…great start, couldn’t ask for more. Losing the opener in Utah, that’s not a biggie. We were down 3 with a lttle more then 2 minutes to go. I’ll take that anyday against the Jazz. This series will be harder than playing the Hornets, next. It’s the Celtics that I fear.
That’s when I’ll be sweating bullets.
My ACE-IN-THE-HOLE. The Lakers know that they’re going to have to pay over 30 million to keep the team together next year, above the salary cap. And, they’re on record that they’re going to do it. So add Bynum, next year (that’s like adding McFadden this year to the Raiders) and we’ll
be very hard to beat.
Hey, it’s about 7 minutes to Leno. See all you guys tomorrow. Have a good one, and a better one tomorrow. GO RAIDERS.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
The Oline was fascinating: Noah Sutherland (UCLA) at right tackle, Jonathan Palmer at right guard, Adam Speiker (Missouri) at center, Jesse Boone at left guard and Brandon Rodd at left tackle.
I hadn’t thought of Palmer at Guard and Boone has morphed from Center to Guard. I wonder if Cable is searching for depth behind Gallery and Carlisle.
Speiker must have a real shot of being the back-up to Wade.
Tevaga must also have a chance. He knows the Cable method and wouldn’t have been invited unless they thought he was a serious prospect.
Sign Sam Keller. The kid has talent.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
WOW!!! I CAN’T BELIEVE WE GOT MARCEL REECE THE BEAST!! HE’S UNSTOPPABLE WHEN HE CATCHES THE BALL!! I SEEN HIM DO WORK ON DB’S AT UW. THAT WAS A GREAT PICK UP!!
May 9th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
You obviously have zero knowledge of MB, if you think we’re basing our opinion on this minicamp. Of which none of saw. It’s his skill set Sherlock, that we’re speaking on. I was saying this a year ago.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
Sorry Raider D, was off before your question but looks like it got answered. Sun Tzu wrote that you attack an enemy’s weakness with your strength. That’s been the Burgess philosphy his whole career. Match your best pass rusher against the weaker Rt. If Richarson gets no pressure and Burgess does, you’re 1-of-2. Switch them and tough LT’s stop Burgess while average RT’s stop Richardson. Now you’re 0-of-2 in pressure.
The weak side LB plays to the opposite of the TE. However, often times LB’s don’t switch if the TE motions and the WLB ends up on the strong side of the formation. That’s one of the many reasons offenses use motion. Get your TE blocking a smaller WLB.
In the Raider’s Man 1 Defense the SS moves with the TE and the LB’s stay put but shift slightly. The high FS shifts opposite the SS.
Either way, Burgess goes outside up field 90% of the time and the gopher from Caddyshack could keep him out of running plays.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
# Dakota Says:
May 9th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Cinemax is on fire tonight…much like Boozer.
……
LOL.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:48 pm
Huff24 Says:
May 9th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Do you guys think that Matt Ryan will have an impact like Peyton Manning? I remember Ryan being compared to Peyton.
Huff You have to understand something here. Archie Manning, Peytons Dad, the color commentator for New Orleans Saints broadcasts, is the single most lionized player in the hostory of the New Orleans Saints. This is important because Peyton Manning, being around pro football his whole life, has a huge advantage over other players. Did you know that Mora let Peyton run the first team New Orleans Saints offense, WHEN PEYTON WAS A TEEENAGER????
So, when Mora took over the Indy Dolts, and they had the number one pick in the draft, Mora knew EXACTLY what he was getting when he wanted Peyotn. Now with all due respects to Matt Ryan, Matt did not run a first team NFL offense when he was 17 years old like Peyton Manning. So even tho I like Matt, it’s going to be hard to believe he will have the success Peyton has for the reasons I’ve outlined.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
Kiffin wishes Rob And Rex Ryan would play a prank and switch, but not just for one day…
May 9th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
Oakglenn, relax.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Anyone see a white guy at camp today getting rushed by just about every minority there?
Alameda Insider said he was going to be there, described what he would be wearing, and where he would be hanging out. So, I’m just asking.
May 10th, 2008 at 12:02 am
I always love that just before Mo Ron has a total meltdown, he asks others to relax. quite humourous really.
May 10th, 2008 at 12:09 am
What is completely beyond funny is I’ll bet Mo Ron, or MaddenRaider as you guys know him has posted my name more times than I have, AND I AM OAKGLENN!! He brought up my name on his post earlier today!! Sorry to tell you tho dude, I am strictly hetero.
May 10th, 2008 at 12:11 am
One other reason Burgess plays the right side is…
Most rushers come from the left (blind side) where the QB don’t see them comming. Rob Ryan wants the QB to see Burgess comming so he throws a mistake into our Awsome secondary. I’d rather have an INT then a sack anyday.
May 10th, 2008 at 12:11 am
AI could not make it to camp today, he had another meeting to attend:
http://www.nsm88.org/images/walliss88.jpg
May 10th, 2008 at 12:16 am
zzzzzzzzzzzz
May 10th, 2008 at 12:21 am
I watched Cloverfield tonight…shite movie.
May 10th, 2008 at 12:22 am
Crickets
May 10th, 2008 at 2:18 am
OG, whatever you say, man. You win. And, believe me, whoever was inferring which way you ..swing..it wasn’t me. It’s an anonymous board. Anyone can post as anyone. People post under my name all the time. You’ll go crazy trying to keep up with it. I have more respect for you than you think, man. But every now and then, I can’t resist making fun of how hot headed you are. You make it sound like we’re coming off of a playoff year or something, like you just can’t understand the criticism. Then, you just go off. It’s funny. That’s all I’m saying. But at the end of the day, you’re a great fan. So, like I said, just chill out.
May 10th, 2008 at 2:21 am
# Dakota Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 12:11 am
AI could not make it to camp today, he had another meeting to attend:
http://www.nsm88.org/images/walliss88.jpg
…..
Can’t be. I was watching something on the history channel about white supremacist organizations, and one thing I remember is that none of them allow drug abuse. That’s right, AI isn’t even good enough for the Hitler youth.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:42 am
Larson or Larsen? Speiker or Spieker?? this piece must have been writen in a hurry, Jarry Mac this piece is full of mistakes… try to proofread it before posting it! this is below your usual standard! period.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:03 am
i gotta wonder what kid would want rob ryans GRAY hair..lol
May 10th, 2008 at 6:13 am
Huff, O, and Dell … nice discussion of the details of the D line. Just catching up now reading the posts, and that was tight.
I hope this isn’t just koolaid but I am very excited about some of the talent in this rookie camp. Keller especially was listed by most scouts as a top ten draft QB as the 2007 started … and then got benched.
I think he’s a steal. Hope he sticks. And same for several of these guys on the D and O lines. Even if only for the practice squad at first … but eligible to be elevated as the season goes along.
BTW saw Arman Shields play for Richmond in the playoffs against App State: even as a WR he was in a sense in the role that Flacco was at Delaware (which was the championship game). In both cases, each was seen as a man among boys. Word to the defense was straightforward: stop this guy, and you stop their offense. And since QB Flacco has gotten recognition for his abilities, thought it would be worth mentioning how key Shields had actually been, despite injury riddled final year. Very impressive to see on the field, and it was against a great secondary.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:02 am
Wow!! Bush is gonna be a stud. A huge stud.
Al is laying one hell of a foundation for our O the next several years.
I dont ever recall being this excited about the team going into a season.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:24 am
I’m not to worried about the game 3 loss….Pau wasn’t nearly as involved as he should’ve been. The lakers will win in 6, guranteed.
I really like Bush, the way that he runs, he should only elevate his play once the pads go on. I was a big fan of his, my only criticism is that for a man that size he doesn’t punish would be tacklers enough. He was actually recruited as a QB and has thrown several TD’s himself.
Imagine the confusion we would cause if we were to line him up under center as a QB with DMC as tailback, or line DMC up a QB in the shotgun with Bush as the RB. A crazy thought is that with them both being so athletically gifted we could throw in an option every now and again with D-Dawg as the QB or maybe even a variation of the triple option. Kiffin must feel like a kid in a candy store with all of these weapons at his disposal.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:37 am
Did you see Kobe scream at Walton for his bad ball handling at the end of the game. Walton doesn’t give it up and Lakers had a shot at a 3 to tie.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:48 am
Kobe’s “almost turnover” caused the jump ball that Walton fumbled…Kobe needs to look in the mirror on that one.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:51 am
Hmmmm, Fred Biletnikoff watching camp with Mark Davis…
Could it be another sign that Kiffin’s changes from last year are being vetoed by Big Al?
Or is Fred just angling for a job when Mark takes over (soon I hope).
Or maybe Fred was just hanging out?
Interesting. Was Art Shell there too?
May 10th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Sorry Justin Fargas, but I really hope you are demoted to 3rd string…that would mean Bush and McDadden are tearing it up.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:00 am
Mark Davis usually is absent from team functions What gives?
May 10th, 2008 at 8:02 am
Exla,
He was probably just excited to check out McFadden. Man, if Al was my dad I would be all over everything involving the RAAAAAAAAAAAAiders.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:03 am
Dakota,
You bet. I would want to learn everything and want to have a copy of the will.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:04 am
lol, heck yeah
May 10th, 2008 at 8:06 am
And be the administrator of the will. Lol. I’d be slipping AD a piece of paper that in small print gives Mark Davis Power of Attorney. lol
May 10th, 2008 at 8:08 am
That might be your answer Dakota. Coup d Etta!
May 10th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Davis dropped hints on who would someday succeed him. He mentioned his wife, Carol, and son, Mark. Chief executive Amy Trask will certainly play a role. Davis even suggested Madden could be of service.
http://rbcsacramento.wordpress.com/2006/08/02/raiders-owner-al-davis-77-talks-about-his-hopes-for-2006-and-hints-at-his-succession-plan/
May 10th, 2008 at 8:18 am
Won’t let me post wiki source but
“Legally, the club is a limited partnership operated by Al Davis, who serves as president of the team’s general partner, A.D. Football, Inc. The partnership is comprised of heirs of the original eight team partners. Although exact ownership stakes are not known, it has been reported that Davis currently owns 67 percent of the team’s shares and is the only partner with the authority to make decisions.
…
Full control of the team will be assumed by Davis’s wife, Carol, upon his death.”
May 10th, 2008 at 8:26 am
After listening to more of Kiffin’s thoughts of using McFadden I am fast coming to the conclusion that Bush or Fargas will be the starting HB with McFadden playing the Reggie Bush role in this offense.
Despite Reggie’s unparalleled talents over and above that of White’s, White started. Bush still got his carries/catches but White was the starter that pounded the defense in submission.
Kiffin is surely one lucky bastard because the combined talents of both Bush and McFadden may be even better than LenDale and Reggie. MB/DMc can both run between tackles, run outside, catch in route and pass as if they were QBs. Its almost unbelievable that we have a backfield with this much talent. These boys are going to be on the field a LOT together. Its just too hard for LBs to defend b/c both can do so damn much. (Line them up in pro but instead of running it you send both on routes ..one is bound to be open vs LBs)
I think DMc is going to be a killer on the screen plays. KILLER!! With his burst and our blockers …watch out for the screen pass …its going to be deadly.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:27 am
the raiders should acquire the rights to chris henry
May 10th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Dakota,
LOL-LOL-LOL-LOL
May 10th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Saw a pic of Schilens on Raider.com and that boy is big (long ass arms, imposing size and fast). He seems like the proto-typical feature WR and deep threat. But apparently he’s not quick …a lot of built up speed. I don’t think you can really teach quickness. You can get better at it but its either in you or its not as I see it (just like speed). However, he can use his size to his advantage on shorter routes.
Thinking about it, I don’t think Plaxico is quick either but has long speed and great size (could definitely be wrong).
Either case, who told this dude to gain 10lbs since his pro-day? Is he that lazy or did someone tell him to gain the lbs? My prelim prediction is practice squad mainly b/c he lacks quickness and route running.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Fine Jerry, or mod, here is an edited version of Al’s will:
_______________________________________________________
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
OF
ALLEN “AL” DAVIS
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS: I, Allen “Al” Davis, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do hereby make, publish, ordain and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament, hereby revoking any and all former Wills by me at any time heretofore made. As to my worldly estate, I direct that upon my death the same be disposed of as follows:
FIRST: I state, declare and certify as follows: I am a resident of the County of Alameda and State of California. I am married to Carol Davis and I have one child, Mark Davis. My social security number is 666-66-6666.
SECOND: I hereby direct my Personal Representative, hereinafter named, as soon as lawful and convenient after my death, to litigate all my just and valid debts, including the expenses of my last illness and burial.
THIRD: Subject to the above, I give, devise and bequeath my estate as follows:
1. I give, devise and bequeath to my wife, Carol Davis jack crap. I really do not agree with the Community Property theory, so you can kiss my rear. Did you really think I didn’t know about your affair with Madden?
2. I give, devise and bequeath to my son, Mark Davis, all of my beloved white and black sweat suits
3. All of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, I give, devise and bequeath to Amy Trask. Amy, thank you for keeping an old man warm during the cold nights of the post Super Bowl XXXVII era in Raider history.
FOURTH: I make, constitute and appoint Fred Biletnikoff of California, my friend, the Personal Representative of this, my Last Will and Testament. I order, request and direct he serve as such Personal Representative without bond. If my friend should not survive me, or should for any reason be unable or fail to qualify as Personal Representative, then and in that event, I nominate and appoint Roger Goodell of New York, New York, my employee, as Alternate Personal Representative, also without bond.
FIFTH: I grant to my Personal Representative full power and authority to sell, convey and convert to cash the whole or any part of my estate, real or personal, at either a private sale or a public sale, at such time or times and on such terms as said Personal Representative shall deem best and to execute deeds, bills of sale or other instruments of transfer, all without authority or order of any Court and no purchaser need look to the application of the purchase price.
SIXTH: I have purposely made no provision for any other person, whether claiming to be an heir of mine or not, and if any person, whether a beneficiary or mentioned in this Will or not mentioned herein, shall contest this Will or object to any of the provisions hereof, having established in a court of competent jurisdiction, the right to participate in my estate in any degree whatsoever, I hereby give and bequeath to such person or persons the sum of $1.00 and no more, in lieu of the provisions which I might have made or which I have made herein for such person or persons so contesting or objecting.
SEVENTH: Should any part, clause, provision or condition of this Will be held to be void, invalid or inoperative, then I direct that such invalidity shall not affect any other clause, provision or condition hereof, but the remainder of this Will shall be effective as though such void clause, provision or condition had not been contained herein.
I, Allen “Al” Davis, the testator sign my name to this instrument this 15th day of December, 2005, and being first duly sworn, do hereby declare to the undersigned authority that I sign and execute this instrument as my will and that I sign it willingly, that I execute it as my free and voluntary act for the purposes therein expressed and that I am eighteen years of age or older, of sound mind, and under no constraint or undue influence.
__________________________________________
Allen “Al” Davis, Testator
We, James Otto and Arthur Shell, the witnesses, sign our names to this instrument, being first duly sworn, and do hereby declare to the undersigned authority that the testator signs and executes this instrument as his will and that he signs it willingly, that he executes it as his free and voluntary act for the purposes therein expressed, and that each of us, in the presence and hearing of the testator, hereby signs this will as witness to the signing, and that to the best of our knowledge the testator is eighteen years of age or older, of sound mind, and under no constraint or undue influence.
______________________________ residing in California
Witness
______________________________ residing in California
Witness
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
)SS
COUNTY OF ALAMEDA )
Subscribed, sworn to and acknowledged before me by Allen “Al” Davis, Testator, and subscribed and sworn to before me by James Otto and Arthur Shell, witnesses, this 15th day of December, 2005.
__________________________________
PAUL TAGLIABUE
NOTARY PUBLIC - CALIFORNIA
(SEAL)
My commission expires: 09-23-2017
May 10th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Words I’ve been saying, “Bush is a beast”. I watched him a lot when he was at Louisille.
Bishop916: You’re one off! BUt 9-16 is my birthday so .. keep trying.
CT RAIDER
Prediction: DeAngelo Hall will be tested A LOT. Hopefully, he does well. Namdi may not get the honors but he reminds me of Mike Haynes. I think Dcoordinators know which side is real coverage. I know it’s early but Namdi still reminds me of Mike Haynes! I don’t think anyone was better than Mike Haynes at knocking a pass down at the last second.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:58 am
Dakota, See what 1 wrong word does.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:01 am
I think that if you can say a word on broadcast TV, you should be able to use it in a blog…
May 10th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Terrapin: Exactly! Especially in his case, football speed is much different than track speed. Wouldn’t that make him a “possession receiver” as I stated in the draft. Players should do the combine in pads! THey should be clocked out of their stance (lineman or WR, or RB). They have different stances and they should be timed out of them.
Sorry, I remember someone dogging me saying he wasn’t a possession receiver.
CT RAIDER
May 10th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Mod, was it the lips comment or the use of the word azz?
May 10th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Bill Clinton is speaking in Rapid City, South Dakota today…they are desperate!
GO RAIDERS!
May 10th, 2008 at 9:09 am
So, Dakota, which client did you bill for your time on AD’s will?
May 10th, 2008 at 9:15 am
It was Pro bono publico GRaider.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Glad to hear that Bush has not lost his fluid style.
I expect that Fargas, Bush, and D-Mac will each get a share of touches. All three will last a lot longer if each they can stay under 20 or so carries a game. I don’t know about Bush, but Fargas and D-Mac do not seem to need a lot of carries to “get into” a game (which can be another way of simply saying that a particular back runs better when the defense is tired).
May 10th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Dakota,
Do you find it odd that there have been no visual sightings of AD since last season? No pictures of him with McFadden or anyone else. All kidding aside, could be that ill?
May 10th, 2008 at 9:19 am
[…] Michael Bush reportedly “ran with smooth athleticism that belied his size” during the Raiders’ rookie minicamp Friday. Coach Lane Kiffin admits the Raiders […]
May 10th, 2008 at 9:19 am
Someone send Gallery the address for “Locks of Love.”
May 10th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Exla,
Hmmm, but what about guys like McFadden and Hall saying they met with Al and he was sharp…no public appearances, but we do have second hand info that would indicate he is okay.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Pro bono? Yes, we can imagine certain millionaires waiting in line at legal aid rather than paying fees.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Evaluating the rooks and invitees doesn’t require Mr. Davis to be on the field. He can watch it on tape if he wishes. Kiffin has to do some of the work doesn’t he?
May 10th, 2008 at 9:27 am
All say he’s mentally sharp, but nothing about physical condition. I quess we will have to wait until season to see him. They installed a special private elevator for him to get to his suite.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:29 am
M,
Doesn’t require but he was always known to observe. Even with his walker.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Exla,
Maybe Al took the Ted Williams’ approach to immortality and he only has his head left?
http://www.cartoonstock.com/newscartoons/cartoonists/jlv/lowres/jlvn1040l.jpg
May 10th, 2008 at 9:36 am
Lol
May 10th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Someone needs to hook Al up with a segway:
http://www.segway.de/images/segway_i2police_%20twoofficers_med.jpg
May 10th, 2008 at 9:40 am
In 07 Raiders Tailbacks carried the ball an average of 27.5 times per game, also they averaged 5 catches a game for a total of 32.5 touches per game.
With Fargas back and McFadden-Bush on board, we could see an increase of up to 3 carries and 3 catches a game, giving them around 38 touches per game.
That´s enough work to split between 3 backs to start the season and eventually settle on 2 primary backs with the other one spelling both.
There´s plenty of potential for a dominating and much more versatile running attack.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:40 am
I wouldn’t be fooled by a walker. AD could outlive us all.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:44 am
Fargas will be back to his normal 3rd string status once Kiffin sees Bush in the preseason.
Sorry Justin, at least you got paid!
May 10th, 2008 at 9:44 am
Marley Esq.,
good morning
just hope your call on Kwame becoming a Raider is of benefit to all of the weapons on offense.
yes, he is your responsibility since you picked him.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Fargas has had his health prayers answered with a three back rotation. The pile of protoplasm he was destined to become as a featured back when clobbered silly, now, well he might just live through the season.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:49 am
Forget the segway! Hook Al up with one of these!:
http://www.the-rocketman.com/art_center/110.jpg
May 10th, 2008 at 9:53 am
M
Lol. I know, I´m praying Kwame doesn´t give up 3 sacks on opening night.
But hey, I said give him a shot, not make him the starting LT right away…that´s all on Cable!.
But no worries, I stand by Kwame and from what we read about how he became a Raider, I feel a lot better.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Kwame “Turnstile” Harris better get the job done, or Russell might be in for a loooooong season.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:59 am
Have you guys seen Tampa Bay’s new mascott? Enjoy:
http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2007/03/20/freaky5_gallery__237×400.jpg
May 10th, 2008 at 10:03 am
on JaMarcus…
when I watch LeBron, listed at 6′8″ 250 lbs, he does seem to be quite athletic.
The Round Mound of Rebound, Sir Charles, was all of 6′ 4 1/2″ and seldom less than 270 lbs. Hall of Fame.
Russell, 6′6″ 265 lbs. Why do some people question his athleticism? He’s just something nobody has ever seen before at QB. He’ll be fine, he doesn’t need to be skinnier.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:06 am
Dakota,
Harris just has to keep the rush wide providing a lane for a shovel pass to your love child. That’ll slow the pursuit of JRuss whether “Turnstile” or not.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:41 am
# exlaraiderseasonticketholder Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 7:37 am
Did you see Kobe scream at Walton for his bad ball handling at the end of the game. Walton doesn’t give it up and Lakers had a shot at a 3 to tie.
………
This is about the time of year the Shaq-less, LA Kobies start to implode.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:43 am
# Dakota Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Sorry Justin Fargas, but I really hope you are demoted to 3rd string…that would mean Bush and McDadden are tearing it up.
……….
If Lane Kiffin has any say in it, Fargas is our starter, and he’s getting at least 30 carries a game. But I don’t think he does.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:48 am
# Bob Marley Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 9:40 am
In 07 Raiders Tailbacks carried the ball an average of 27.5 times per game, also they averaged 5 catches a game for a total of 32.5 touches per game.
With Fargas back and McFadden-Bush on board, we could see an increase of up to 3 carries and 3 catches a game, giving them around 38 touches per game.
That´s enough work to split between 3 backs to start the season and eventually settle on 2 primary backs with the other one spelling both.
There´s plenty of potential for a dominating and much more versatile running attack.
………….
That’s all assuming Kiffin is still running our offense. We’ll be able to tell right off of the get go rather or not he is, by rather or not Fargas is starting, because Fargas is Kiffin’s guy, after last year. Coaches who like to run the ball always go with their winning horse.
If Kiffin’s been shelved, I promise you we’ll run the ball no more than 25 times in any game. We’ll run the ball less than 20 times in most games, and a couple of games less than 10 times. You know Al Davis.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:52 am
No matter, we are still f**ked, no Defense. Until this is addressed the Raiders will not go anywhere