Carter is insurance policy for Walker
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Monday, July 21st, 2008 at 3:36 pm in Oakland Raiders.
In the days leading up to the first day of training camp, I’ll review the state of the rest of the AFC West and how they match up with the Raiders, as well as all Raiders position groups heading into the first practice on July 24. Today’s entry takes a look at Raiders receivers:
Starters–WR Javon Walker, WR Ronald Curry, TE Zach Miller.
Reserves–WR Drew Carter, WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR Jonathan Holland, WR Chaz Schilens, WR Arman Shields, WR Will Buchanon, WR Drisan James, WR Chris McFoy, WR Marcel Reece, WR Todd Watkins, TE John Madsen, TE Tony Stewart, TE Chris Wagner, TE Darrell Strong.
The Raiders were taking grief for their decision to sign Walker even before the wide receiver wound up beaten and unconscious on a Las Vegas sidestreet after a night of champagne-spraying and partying.
If Walker isn’t ready to go when the Raiders practice for the first time Thursday, the criticism will continue, and not without some justification.
What may be getting lost in the concern over Walker is that Carter could be an under-the-radar acquisition that may prove to be one of Oakland’s best offseason moves.
While Walker’s decision-making remains open to question, Carter arrived chock full of logic and common sense, not to mention a great deal of size, speed and playmaking skill.
He came to Alameda in good shape and immediately attatched himself to JaMarcus Russell, eager to build chemistry through hard work.
“From Day 1, we’ve been out here catching,” Carter said.
Lane Kiffin said Carter is the first wideout to gain such a chemistry with the future of the franchise. Carter has displayed the ability to catch passes both short and long, and he is the kind of jump-and-catch receiver who will enable Russell to take the occasional shot on the sideline, realizing that if Carter doesn’t catch it, the ball will safely fall incomplete.
It wasn’t just Russell which intriuged Carter about the Raiders.
It took Carter only a few minutes with wide receivers coach James Lofton to realize this was a man who would be able to evelvate his game.
“James Lofton was very, very influential in why I came here,” Carter said. “He’s definitely a great coach and definitely can teach me a lot of things as a receiver. I feel I’m the type of receiver he was, taller guy, faster guy and I feel he’s helped me out so much already.”
While Carter became the first wideout to bond with Russell, Miller, who set a Raiders rookie record last season with 44 catches, started that process last season.
The Raiders were the subject of some riducule among NFL teams and agents last season for overpaying Miller by approximately a million dollars in what is essentially a slotted pay scale.
At least they overpayed for a guy who is worth it. Miller can catch passes in traffic, has a knack for finding open areas and showed some promise as a blocker.
Madsen, considering his skill as a receiver, was probably underutilized by Kiffin last season.
What’s to like
Curry has taken to weight lifting for the first time under new strength coach Brad Roll and believes he is better equipped to handle the rigors of the job, which in his case means banging inside and getting open past the third down stake on third down.
He played with a painful bone spur all last season, but still showed he was capable of the amazing catch _ a leaping snag of a Daunte Culpepper pass in Minnesota rivaled his leaping miracle in the Denver snow in 2004.
Higgins is being talked up by Kiffin for his playmaking skills and improvement in Year 2, and will be given every chance to be the punt return specialist.
Based on what he showed in the offseason, Watkins is an extremely gifted physical receiver who has a chance to stick if either of the rookie draft picks isn’t deemed ready for the 53-man roster.
Shields and Schilens both seem extremely bright and earnest, and have the physicality the Raiders are looking for as receiving partners for Russell.
Kiffin would love to see Reece make a move if for no other reason that the Washington receiver made the training camp roster on a tryout basis. If he were to contend for a roster spot or make the practice squad, he would serve as an example that draft status or salary takes a back seat to production when it comes to making the team.
Reece has a tight end’s size and a wideout skills.
What’s not
If there was a manual for how a free agent could do everything wrong after signing a lucrative contract, Walker would be featured in Chapter 1.
Considering his injury and personal history, Walker should have showed up in shape and ready to play, and with enough good sense to put his partying days behind him, particularly after the Darrent Williams tragedy.
Instead, Walker did the opposite. Perhaps he becomes the receiver he was again in Green Bay, or as he was for a year in Denver, but as of right now, Walker has lot to prove.
Bone spur aside, the one of the surprising aspect of Curry’s performance last season was an alarming amount of dropped passes. He will need to prove those lapses in concentration were due to the pain he was feeling, even though the pain wasn’t in his hands.
Shields is a project who needs plenty of snaps but who promptly had a hamstring pull, robbing him of valuable learning time. He will need to catch up to Schilens in training camp.
McFoy was elevated to the 53-man roster late last season, but rates no better than a longshot to stick this year along with one-time camp phenom Buchanon, Holland and James.
From here, Madsen still looks like more than an Ed McCaffrey-style wideout than as an interior-blocking tight end.
Stewart was a non-factor in the passing game, his two main roles being as a special teams player and as the union player rep.
Wagner and Strong are practice squad hopefuls.
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July 21st, 2008 at 3:39 pm
Go Wife!
July 21st, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Carter, Miller and McFadden may get the bulk of the receiving yards this season…it wouldn’t surprise me if Walker was a complete bust.
July 21st, 2008 at 3:45 pm
GO RAIDERS!!!! Unstopable this year holla sons holla BTW Love yur werk Jerry
July 21st, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Carter is the one the new additions I cant wait to see, right behind Bush & Dmac!
July 21st, 2008 at 3:51 pm
OakGlenn, how many times have you told us to ignore MR and trolls ? You and Scottish are returning this blog back to glory remember….no more nonsense!
# Oakglenn Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 1:18 pm
MR Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 12:38 pm
The worst thing about winning 4 games in this league? People hopping on the bandwagon.
Don’t worry Raider fans he’s talking about the white wine sipping, cheese eating Whiner fans from the Central Valley. Like himself.
July 21st, 2008 at 3:52 pm
IT’ WILL BE FUN TO SEE WHO STEPS UP AND GET’S THE JOB DONE. MY MONEY IS ON CARTER….
GO RAIDERS!!!
July 21st, 2008 at 3:52 pm
yeah but what about jovans Face???
July 21st, 2008 at 3:53 pm
Before Walker’s adventures in Vegas, I was hoping he’d hold-up for a few years. Now, I just hope for one good year (not even great). If Walker can be above-average, and Carter and few of the younger guys step up, then our WR’s will at least be middle-of-the-road. If the running game is what it should be, that should be enough to propel us toward 8-8, defensive questions notwithstanding.
If the WR corps is anywhere near the level it could be with a healthy (in body AND mind) JW leading the pack, then this offense will easily be top-10. Thank you, Drew Carter, for taking your position on this team as seriously as you do — the younger guys need to see more of that kind of dedication.
July 21st, 2008 at 3:53 pm
New Orleans filled a BIG hole with Shockey too bad he doesnt play defense.
Jason Taylor would have been nice for us if we were 1 player away from getting to the SB so holding on to those draft pics was a good thing.
Jason Jones article
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/raiders/archives/013978.html
July 21st, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Carter is going to turn into an acquisition along the lines of Burgess. It wouldn’t surprise me if Walker misses 10 games this year…but I hope not.
July 21st, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Mista,
That was kind of a depressing read.
July 21st, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Yes it was..
July 21st, 2008 at 4:01 pm
So what happens if Walker gets beat out in camp and doesnt make the team? How much are we stuck paying him or do they have these things written into there contracts?
July 21st, 2008 at 4:02 pm
I’m sure, if we cut him, we’d have to eat a big portion of that contract.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Whos going to beat him out ????????
lol
July 21st, 2008 at 4:04 pm
GUARANTEED MONEY!!!
July 21st, 2008 at 4:05 pm
If he is sitting on the sidelines…anyone mentioned above.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:05 pm
MR Is there anything you like about the Raiders?
All you do is verbaly beat on them.
Do you have anything at all good to say?
July 21st, 2008 at 4:07 pm
We have been one of the worst teams in history the passed 5 years. He has a right to be pissed if he wants.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:07 pm
If he is on the sidelines it would be due to injury nobody on this roster is going to beat him out.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:07 pm
I’ll bet walker is not ready.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:08 pm
Javon will be a head case as predicted, so maybe we get lucky and he comes out on fire!!!!!!!!!!!
July 21st, 2008 at 4:11 pm
KK, you’re right. There is no way in hell he will be ready for camp, maybe the preseason. The guy just got served his lunch weeks ago.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:11 pm
Bush gets a lot of catches as well… 35-40.
Dakota has sent the shirt of the best nba team (if he won’t say it, i will) to the address i provided.
Thanks Dakota. You’re all right. I’ll send it back to you if you say the words.
CT RAIDER
July 21st, 2008 at 4:11 pm
DeathbyTatum, You’re exactly right about the Burgess-Carter comparrison. The only problem is I’m pretty sure the Raiders only signed Carter to a one-year deal. They should’ve given Walker the one-year deal (or none at all) and signed Carter to a long-term, relatively low money deal. I expect Carter will have the biggest impact of all three WRs this year.
I think Johnnie Lee Higgins is going to have to have a big preseason to stick. He was a non-factor in the passing game and a fumbling liability in the return game last year. Shields and Schillens have a lot of upside as big, explosive WRs and I think they’ll land spots if Higgins continues to look timid.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:15 pm
I think it will be good that we signed Carter to a 1 year contract. He will use it to prove himself for the bigger money, which we will give him if he produces. I’m still, nor never was, high on Higgins. He is a gimmic slot reciever. No way that guy is catching balls in traffic. One hit to his little bird chest, the guy is toast. I still have to see the 2 Rooks in action before I even comment on them. I like their size though.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:18 pm
You got to thnik between the two rooks, Buchanan, McFoy, Watkins, etc. that at least ONE of them will step up and be an NFL caliber receiver. I mean really, 1 out of 6 is not asking for much. Never liked Higgins either, looked scared returning punts
July 21st, 2008 at 4:24 pm
I hate to say this, but I too think Walker will be a bust. The dude just don’t have it in the brain to make this thing work. Lot’s of talent, but no thunking process…. I sure as hell hope he proves me wrong, and I will be fist to eat crow.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Never liked Higgins, McFoy, Buchannon. This position group is rather thin Imo. And If Walker doesen’t show, really thin.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Most of these athletes aren’t very smart. Fortunately you dont need to be a genius to play football. Walker will be fine unless this last incident made him unravel. We will find out soon enough!
KK, you never liked anybody lol
July 21st, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Mista -
No, you certainly don’t have to be a genious. But most of the morons eventually find themselves not playing anymore. Example: Ricky Williams and Lawrence Phillips….
Don’t get me wrong bro, I’m not hating on Walker, I just don’t think he has it in him..
July 21st, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Curry is the one to influence the younger receivers. He’s battled back from injuries, contributes to the community and does what he needs to do to get ready for the season; get stronger, eliminate bone spurs… We found him in the 7th round and developed him. One of the new receivers will possibly have his character. WE can only hope that Walker has finally grown up.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I have a feeling that its going to be JR who makes the WR’s on the roster look good instead of the WR’s making JR look good. Tom Brady has been a master at having a bunch of nobody’s at WR until this last year and he performed very well. I think JR has that type of ability. If Walker shows up for a few games, they will be big ones because he will help open up the passing game for other people and if people underestimate Walker…being that hes still a good receiver (messed up brain or not), he will make teams pay.
If Michael Irvin can have a coke problem and win 3 Superbowls…why the hell can’t Walker provide us with some success? I think Carter and Curry will be big time this year along with the rest of the cast and Walker will be good enough to put this offense over the top. I see at least 50 catches from the guy.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:44 pm
If anything…getting beat up and getting embarrassed by the media will light a fire under Walker to prove that he is not all that bad. Thats what I’m hoping for. Maybe this experience has humbled him a bit.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:46 pm
I hope so Huff24… I really do mang.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:48 pm
I am not yet ready to give up on Walker. I have to give a person the benefit of the doubt.
First, We are that over weight means out of shape in the football world. That is not the case. Also, during the off season player gain weight. Javon was also nursing an injury, so his off-season work out is limited. Training camp is used to get the players in shape. 10lbs over weight is nothing for an NFL player. They can drop that in a week.
Second, Maybe this was a wake-up call. Last time is was a close friend and this time it was almost HIM. If that doe snot open his eyes, nothing will. We should know more once the pre-season starts.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:51 pm
I hope you guys are right. Because if he shows up out of shape and the Raiders do have a clause in his contract about his knee. We need to use it.
IMO this guys is a clown. And even with guys like Curry around him. I think he’s to selfish to take notice as to what a real pro acts like.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:56 pm
He certainly has to prove himself to his team, and to the Raider Nation.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:58 pm
I would hope Walker would be good for 75-80 catches. A good offense needs that out of it’s No#1 Receiver.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:59 pm
75-80 catches? Hell based on what we paid for him he better be good for 100-112 catches…
July 21st, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Huff — Michael Irvin’s coke problems broke his sinuses. Javon’s problems broke his face. Hopefully, it didn’t break whatever spirit he had left in him, too.
McRaider — right on about Walker. If he doesn’t learn enough from his latest life lesson, much more than his career will be in jeopardy. My guess is this one will do it.
For all of us real Raiders fans, like him or not, Javon Walker’s career (and body) rehabilitation is as important to this team as just about any other issue.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Hayes -
What is a “real Raiders fan”? Other than living in the bay area and having a Raiders tattoo.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
I just can’t believe this guy would go out and do the same thing that they were doing that got his buddy killed on the anniversary of his buddies death. Crazy!!!
Hate him or not were stuck with him. Can only hope he turns out great.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:11 pm
The thig about Walker is this; he will either be a star and beloved by the Raider Nation this year, or he will be a scapegoat. I would imagine even a mediocre season will push him towards being a scapegoat..
I would prefer him as a star.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Top-10 (bottom?) question marks:
1. Def Line
2. Off Line
3. WR Corps
4. Def Scheme/s
5. Special Teams
6. Def Line Again
7. Off Line Again
8. JaMarcus’s Growth
9. Kiff’s Growth
10. Al’s Patience
Rebuttals?
July 21st, 2008 at 5:14 pm
A real raider fan does not have to live in the bay area and does not have a tattoo. I consider myself a real RAIDER FAN. If they moved to Canada, I would still be a raider fan.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Javon Walker can be the Phantom of the Opera. Put on half a mask to cover up the damages and put on a performance like no other but do it with a mean streak. While at it…make sure you include the drama (and we know he has plenty of that to give).
July 21st, 2008 at 5:18 pm
I would definately prefer Walker to be a star but we do have an offense that likes to spread the ball around and we have a cast that should allow us to do that on a regular basis. Walker, Curry, Carter, Miller, McFadden, Bush, O’Neal and Griffith. Thats 8 people. We will probably run the ball 60% of the time which will allow 40% in passing to be sprad amongst those 8 guys. Walker will just end up being a role player if anything. The running backs are going to get alot of playing time in this offense.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Imagine that…I didn’t even include Fargas into the mix. Make that 9 but I see him taking a back seat at some point because he doesn’t catch the ball as well.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:23 pm
I can’t wait for training camp to start. I hope the staff at Raiders.com do a better job of the photo gallery. The offseason pictures were lacking, and it took them several days to even post the pics.
Traditionally they have done a good job posting training camp pics…
July 21st, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Einstein Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Hayes -
What is a “real Raiders fan”? Other than living in the bay area and having a Raiders tattoo.
LMAO
I got a NATION SKULL takes up my right 4arm best monnies I ever spent
July 21st, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Einstein — I guess my opinion (for whatever little it’s worth here) of a real fan is one who wishes nothing but the best for his/her stated favorite team, no matter what. There are those here who either can’t or won’t do that. And we all know there are many on here who aren’t fans at all — they’re just here to fill the void in their unhappy lives by trying to take the fun out of being a “real” fan. If that’s the case, what’s the point?
A real fan wouldn’t do that to his own team, or to fellow fans that ostensibly share the same loyalty to their team. I also feel that a real fan wouldn’t be offended by what I just said — even if they don’t completely agree with it.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:27 pm
HayesDaze#37 - Believe it or not…I believe Al’s Patience should be #1 because if he decides to pull the plug on Kiffin during the season or after the season…that really kicks the future plans in the butt and disrupts everything this team is trying to do. This team is trying to change for the better. The roster has been stripped of players who have simply not performed well enough over these last 5 years. The chemistry is changing and the plan of execution seems to make alot more sense.
On top of that, the coaching changes that have occurred have been for the better and in order for every position to work, this team desperately needs consistency. Not only does it need consistency but it needs time to develop so I believe 3 years should be the goal. Maybe Kiffin isn’t the right coach but if you get rid of him sooner than later, none of us will truly know and all these position changes won’t matter unless a Bill Cowher was to step in and take control of the current talent and lets be honest here…that would never happen.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Hayes - Point well taken and understood.
I guess the only difference between our “fandome” is I don’t really give a rats azz about what anyone thinks about the Raiders. The only opinion that matters to me is what I think about them. I could care less if they went 0-16 and moved to South Dakota, I would still be a fan of the greatest sporting franchise on earth.
Now, that certainly doesn’t mean I don’t like to read or listen to what others have to say. I really enjoy reading the posts here, and get great ideas and insite into the love we all share. However, there isn’t a single blog, post, or thought that changes my thoughts about MY team.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:30 pm
Hayes- Your opinion is worth alot, and I greatly appreciate and respect your opinion my Raider brother.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Also…Kiff’s growth has everything to do with Al’s patience. If Kiffin doesn’t grow fast enough for Al…Al will pull the plug so we need Kiffin to come out firing on all cylinders with his coaching and with this team. The sad part about saying that is…how can he do that when he has a virtual rookie at QB? The only problem with a Head Coach who starts with a rookie QB, is they are judged as one. If JR doesn’t play well, Kiffin becomes the scapegoat and if JR shines, Kiffin is praised as a great coach who turned around the fortunes of the Oakland Raiders.
In essence…JR needs to play well enough to save Kiffins job. Isn’t that a scary thought? There are no guarentees when it comes to rookie QB’s, especially when they become responsible for your job security. Just ask Nolan of the 49ers about that regarding Alex Smith.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Notice, I didn’t say real fans aren’t allowed to have their own opinions, even critical ones. There are plenty of things to criticize, especially the past few years. But that doesn’t mean I don’t support my team to the fullest, no matter what doubts I have.
I am a real fan. I am a real Raiders fan. Win or lose, right or wrong, that will never change. I’m thinking most of the people on here feel pretty much the same as I do.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Huff24 -
Great post mang #56. You said it all, wrapped up the upcoming season in a few paragraphs, and the future of Kiffin…
July 21st, 2008 at 5:36 pm
A real Raiders fan embracess his brothers! I was @ the whiner game last year when I see a member of the NATION walkin with his lady (after the game) a group of 6 or 7 dudes in red started givin him isht and tryin to intimadate him I tell my boy we arnt letting this happen right! as we walk up to the group and start tellin the whiner fans to ufck off more of our brothers joind in to get our back! then the whiner dudes were like it all good we was only kidding…
July 21st, 2008 at 5:37 pm
You know what really sucks, I have a Raiders calendar at work, and guess who is the picture for July?? drum roll please……… our very own future hall of fame safety…. Stuart Schwigert… oh wait a second, he isn’t a Raider, and he sure as hell isn’t going to the hall of fame unless he is visiting….
I have had to look at this fool all of July, can’t wait till August…
July 21st, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Great points all around, guys.
Yes, Al’s patience could’ve easily been #1…but my thinking is that if the others on that list do their parts, Al will have plenty enough patience for the team to move forward. With Kiff, hopefully.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Haysdays-fine, but reverse the first two. we won a superbowl with an average d-line. we need a miracle with the o-line because that has to protect the “franchise” and open the holes for the oft- mentioned “thunder and lightning” running game that so many have crowed about. i have yet to see a team succeed with a mediocre o-line.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:47 pm
Thats if Kiff and company choose to stay. Thats what i’m worried about.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:50 pm
T.O. is a nice guy?
http://www.yahoo.com/s/921104
July 21st, 2008 at 5:55 pm
#54, Einstein — I completely agree with you about not caring about what other “fans” think of my loyalty. OUR team will always have my support, as will all you other real fans. What I was addressing was the fact that real fans of this team would never do or say some of the things that are stated here.
I know people who sit in seats that cost tens of thousands of dollars, in multiple venues…but they aren’t even fans. They’re there for the status and networking opportunites, period.
Just buying a ticket (or getting a tattoo, no matter how awesome) doesn’t make a fan. Being a fan is an internal, individual, thing. Celebrating (or commiserating) with other fans just makes it more enjoyable for me personally. If someone were to try to dampen my enjoyment of such things — while still claiming to be a Raiders fan — that person certainly wouldn’t qualify as a real fan in my book.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Who will make the 53 man roster (you objectively think) and lets not play favorites here - be objective.
Depending on the number Kiffin carries I’ll say the following make it: 1.Walker, 2.Carter, 3.Curry, 4/5.Watkins & Higgins, and this is the tough one …its either Shields or Shilens with the 6th spot.
I just can’t commit to either. At USC Kiffin had these big, tall WRs and Schilens definitely fits the mold and he’s fast. Shields is smaller but a little bigger than JLH. At the same time Shields was projected to go higher than he did (still 3rds ahead of Schilens) for good reason. I’m giving Shields the edge until further notice. Schilens - Practice Squad.
Them wanting JLH’s to take hold of punt duties may save him a job but we’ll see.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Coinman — Good point…the O-Line probably has as many questions as the D-Line. But, which of our SB teams had a D-Line that would be considered more average than the current one is? Actually, if this D-Line is at least average (finally), I think we’ll be fine.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Who’s a real fan, or a real American talk makes me ill.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:09 pm
HD 37
every 1 I kno with a raider tat is a freaking hardcore fan!!! Im not sayin if you dont have 1 your not a fan (some people like tat’s some dont!) Real raider fans sport their gear to work every monday (or tuesday) regardless if we win loose or tie.. Its been ruff these last 5 years but were turning the corner… and besides theres room on on this wagon 4 every1… rember in 02 every1 was iln love with the raiders where are they now? Im still here always have been always will be….
July 21st, 2008 at 6:11 pm
Terp — Al knows that it usually takes 2-3 years before WR’s actually carry their share of the load (unless they’re pretty special), no matter where they were drafted. Seems to me Schilens is well on his way to making the active roster, while Shields may be hampered enough to be placed on the practice squad (unless he has a truly spectacular training camp). If JLH has come around, that’s exactly what I think will happen.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:11 pm
KK
ARE you a real american raider fan…??
sorry dude I couldn’t help myself
July 21st, 2008 at 6:11 pm
Someone posted this on a Raiders board I visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXLLQ-Wnq8U
17 more days for the first pre-season game!
Glad we will start getting camp stories next week.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:13 pm
Huff 24 great observation for post 56: i agree
Einstein, i hear your point about ‘dumb’ players not lasting long; however, i have to remind everyone that Ricky williams still has a job in the nfl, and that word is he is turning heads in Miami. I heard on Sirius radio that he looks like he has something left in the tank.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:15 pm
All I know is that, I suffer like hell after losing. It takes me til Wednesday to recover.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:15 pm
I think the biggest competition to watch is MLB. We need (I believe) Hartwell to win that position and move Morrison outside where he belongs. My opinion.
Funny how we get a better player as an “insurance policy” than the insuree.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:16 pm
KK — my assessment wasn’t about what’s a real fan…real fans are real fans, period. It was more my opinion of what a real fan isn’t. And, no, I don’t think my opinion is any more valid than anyone else’s. Even if it is.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:17 pm
Carter could be ready to bust out this season, but they have been saying this about the man since he showed up at Ohio State. The raiders did right by giving him a 1 year deal. I am sure glad that Carter has bought in to the Raider mystique and i hope he rejuvinates his career in Oakland because those are the types of things that have to happen to win with this roster.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:21 pm
Good post, Jerry. Spot on regarding Walker. Can’t understand why we signed him to that kind of contract. Not mad at acquiring him but not to that kind of contract. Ugh!
July 21st, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Gentlemen, ladies, and those in-between –
Don’t know if anybody else has noticed this, but this is the longest series of topics on this forum in many weeks, where nobody has called anybody else a defamatory name (or otherwise tried to spoil the atmosphere here).
This is why I visit this blog, and what I wish the blog would always be like — differing opinions and all. The cynic in me knows better, though.
It’s been fun, but it’s time for dinner. Raider On!
July 21st, 2008 at 6:24 pm
I watched the Raider/SD game this weekend. LT was bursting through the hole, and was spun around as if someone grabbed his face mask. On replay it showed Terdell Sands had grabbed his ARM and spun him around that way. Dude is Powerful. But motivated??
July 21st, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Hey, Jerry.
You don’t mention Fred Wakefield, who’s also seeing time at DE. Why not? His chance to make the team seems every bit as good as Stewart, especially as he offers the opportunity back up as DE, or hell, even T.
Peace.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:28 pm
another tid bit to chew on with regard to Carter is Steve Smith. Smith has been doubled and tripled for the past 5 years while carter was there. Smith has been so frustrated by this that he has even taken the young Trojan, Dwayn Jarret, to task by verbally bitch slapping him in the press every chance he gets. Jarret was recently qouted saying that smith does this because he is frustrated and wants someone else to catch the attention of the defense: or at least catcth the ball.
On top of that i heard Smith on Nfl radio and he seemed more upset about loosing keary colbert to denver. he really did not seemed to phased about the loss of Carter.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:29 pm
You have to becareful if you’re a Hardcore fan of anything because I believe (and its only my opinion) we should be more hardcore when it comes to our family or wife and kids or girlfriend or whatever it may be. I have always devoted myself to the Raiders and I have a HUGE passion for it but its also very difficult to devote time and money on a regular basis when you have people who want to spend time with you outside of your hobby. Some people make their favorite teams #1 above everything else. If that is what a Hardcore fan is…then no, I am not a hardcore fan. I just don’t have a problem with that.
I love the Raiders and for some reason, I get more excited and happy about the Raiders and football in general, then anything else but I also have to remember that its just a game. As much as I love the Raiders. Real life takes precedence.
Or maybe the Raiders just haven’t been good enough to make me think otherwise?
July 21st, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Koolkell - I will agree with you on that. When the Raiders lose, I feel like someone died. When someone dies, Its easier to shrug it off and say, “Well, thats life, sh!t happens.” Its a terrible curse.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Its’s Horrible!
July 21st, 2008 at 6:35 pm
Dick V - I think Steve Smith’s biggest problem should be who’s throwing to him. Delhomme is solid when healthy but when is he healthy? David Carr was a terrible disappointment. Testaverde was nothing to smile about. Anybody else was crap. Smith shouldn’t be picking on the other WR’s and making them feel like crap. He should be talking to the coaching staff so they can address who is responsible for getting the passes to the receiver core.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:41 pm
I am not too thrilled about Javon’s contract; his beating in Vegas should have been avoided, but he still remains the best WR on the roster. He has been a no.1 receiver. He has produced one stellar effort, and he had a 1000 yard season in 06 in denver. He made more than a few big plays against Namdi in his two years in denver prior to this season. The Raiders will most likely regret the money they paid him, but i still feel better about this season with him on the roster. Out of the 08 UFA wr class he was still the best proven prospect. The vikings assumed the same risk in Bernard Barrian as the Raiders did walker: 16 mill garunteed. jerry porter and stallworth both got 10 million in garuntees. none of those other guys have ever been a productive no.1, and they have never produced a 1000 yard season. in the high stakes poker game of the nfl: javon is the equivalent of going all in with a pair of face cards. those other guys are not even that.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:45 pm
huff i agree with you, but i was merely trying to throw some cold water on this love fest for Carter. We are all Raiders fans and we get ahard on for big fats, talented play makers really quick. Carter has the talent, but he has never produced.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Dick V - It takes WR’s 3 years on average to get acclimated to the NFL. Carter has gotten better every single year on a team that has not been very impressive on offense. Its QB situation has been less than stellar. The offensive line hasn’t protected its QB’s. The RB’s have been injury prone and Steve Smith whines when he doesn’t get the football enough and he whines when the other WR isn’t good enough. So what is it Steve Smith? Do you want the ball or would you rather have the guy on the opposite side play good enough to take some of those passes away from you?
I just think Carter has been a hidden gem for a team that hasn’t been very good on offense and he has still been effective and has improved every single year. That has to say something that he would be willing to find a way to get better each year and I believe the Raiders are the perfect team for him to grow some more. He could not have a better cast.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:03 pm
Drew Carter
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/stats?playerId=5688
July 21st, 2008 at 7:20 pm
408
I got my white gold Raider sleazy pinky ring… My lady got it for a couple years back its my Doltz stamper… if u see a Raider emblem on Doltz fan forehead… El Dirty was there lol.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:36 pm
This is from Rotoworld on Carter at the end of last season…
Carter, 26, caught 38 passes for 517 yards (13.6 YPC) and four TDs as the Panthers’ third receiver in 2007.
He has no trouble separating, but has struggled to do the “little things” well.
Carter will get good tutelage from WRs coach James Lofton and be a strong bet to pick up some starts when Javon Walker’s knee acts up again.
He’s currently Oakland’s third receiver.
……………………………………………
Then this from Jerry’s article above…
“James Lofton was very, very influential in why I came here,” Carter said. “He’s definitely a great coach and definitely can teach me a lot of things as a receiver. I feel I’m the type of receiver he was, taller guy, faster guy and I feel he’s helped me out so much already.”
…………………………………………….
Sounds like Carter has the right attitude about things. He flashes talent at times, but was inconsistent due to bad technique.
His senior year of high school was his first year of football, then his NCAA career was marred by injuries to his knee and ankle.
He then spent his rookie year in the NFL on IR after tearing his ACL.
He only played in 3 games in 2005 and 14 games in 2006 in part because of injuries.
2007 was his first full year in the NFL and he set career numbers, but was inconsistent.
I hope he stays healthy and listens to Lofton. Seems like he has been unable to take advantage of his pontential.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Huff , I can’t argue with your logic or reasoning. I have been a little excited about Carter in the offseason because he is a deep threat. I hope your instincts are right for Jamarcus’ sake. Having a wr that can get upfield quickly will be a big addition to the passing game. My interest was peaked because has had limited production with a qb rotation that included Vinny, dave carr , Matt Moore, and Delhomme. without a doubt John Fox and Marty Morningwig have been reluctant to bring in a real qb becuse they have been under immense pressure to win now. They should have adressed the qb position two or three years ago. Carolina’s problems seem to parrellel Oakland’s: except that Al made the investment into a top notch signal caller last year. Fox will without a doubt be done in by his reluctance to bring in real qb early in the draft. Maybe he will land back in Oakland after they miss the playoffs, and he gets fired: if Rob Ryan disspoints again.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:45 pm
KK: Terdell went through a lot of hard personal tragedies. When I was going through my divorce I was totally different in my work as well. Hopefully he’s as motivated and energenic as I am now. You may see a totally different player this year. Hopefully, last year made him stronger mentally. It worked for me.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Dick V. We hope he’s a top-notch qb. Very little experience. We don’t know what we have yet except an arm. Kyle BOlger and Ryan (SD) had big arms as well. We’re all hoping but honestly we have no idea what he is like as a qb.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
classic post for a blog k rock. that kind of brings clarity to Carter’s struggles. Maybe he will be the next “Burgess” for this 2aider team
July 21st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Carter will have a break out season.
Walker ends up 3rd down WR.
Miller will continue to improve.
Curry will secure the WR positions.
Schillens will have glimpses of Moss.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Boller and Leaf are similar in potential, but both men had trouble establishing themselves as leaders: leaf was really a world class ahole. Jamarcus has seemed to already surpassed both men in that repsect. He is without a doubt the leader of the team. That holds a lot of weight, and it will allow him more time or room to grow then both players got. He is also superior to both players in skill level. He will be fine, and i think he will be a great leader. I remember Les Miles saying he can replace the talent that Jamarcus had brought to Lsu, eluding to the now dissmissed Perriloux with all world talent and to a lesser extent matt flyn who lead them to a national title last season, butmiles said he can’t replace the leader that Jamarcus was- is.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
Jim i think the qb position is all about leadership and decision making. The team has to believe that the qb can lead them to victory. This is what Tennessee has in VY. He struggles, but that team knows he can win the game if they get him the ball that one last time; thus, they dig deep and give their all. The Titans were a mess b4 VY showed up and had a similar run like the Raiders had of being a bad team, but Vy took that team and made them competitive because all 53 of those players know VY has that magic. it only will take a few clutch performances to get 53 players to feel the same about JR.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:23 pm
I also put more stock in “un proven” commodities from the SEC. That is the highest level off football outside of trhe NFL. To earn your way there, you have to be a good football player. I guess I am saying the floor is not as low as a qb from the wac. JR is going to be more along the lines of a Jason Campbell at worst, and a Peyton or eli at best. He will not be a alex smith or tedford qb like David carr, boller, or akili smith because JR has played ball in the sec and has played well. its not the nfl, but it is a way higher level than the wac or even pac 10 minus usc.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
the speed in the sec is a lot like what you see in the nfl: especially for defenses and qb’s playing against them. Jay cutler rose to fame because he took a bad team and made them play competitvely in the SEC. rest assured nation we have hell of a qb.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:31 pm
VY did very well his first year because he was smart enough to run on third down. At one time he had 13 straight third down runs for first downs. Last year, however, teams played the run on 3rd down and he struggled because he isn’t accurate. Accuracy, is the key for Russell. That is what Kiffin is stressing. Russell is not nearly as quick or as fast as VY. Zach Miller will have to be his 3rd down “run”.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:36 pm
pac 10 dominated last year until they had qb injuries (cal, oregon state, usc). I’m not a pac 10 guy but i won a lot of money betting just on them. Russell barely beat out the other qb at lsu. Some players thought he shouldn’t have been the starter. He did light up ND but… everyone was wide open. He wasn’t dominate in the SEC.
Also, about VY, he was also smart enough to manage to get to short 3rd downs to position himself for runs on third.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:50 pm
VY=better learn how to be a better passer than runner. We shall see
July 21st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Russell will be a better nfl Qb than VY
July 21st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
2007 Season:
Jerry Porter: 44 Catches, 705 Yards and 6 TD´s.
Drew Carter: 38 Catches, 517 Yards and 4 TD´s.
Porter started 16 games, Carter started 7.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:55 pm
porter was always a loser and never cared
July 21st, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Porter couldn’t get open consistently…very damn slow and shows up hardly ever in the first half ofthe season. what did we really lose
July 21st, 2008 at 8:59 pm
peyton and eli grew up w/football and have high football iqs.
Weaknesses: Despite improving in this area, he still needs to improve his decision-making process. He has a tendency to lock onto his primary target at times and will throw into double-coverage too frequently. He gets lazy with his footwork and needs to be more consistent with stepping into his throws. He has a tendency to just flick his wrist instead of stepping into his throws, and that’s when his accuracy suffers. He’s a fine athlete for his size, but he lacks elite initial quickness and top-end speed. He’s a threat to scramble but won’t be nearly the running threat in the NFL. He did not play in an overly complicated offensive scheme at the collegiate level and there are some concerns about how long it will take him to adjust to a far more complex system in the NFL. He also has some minor durability issues dating back to shoulder and wrist injuries in 2005.
I hope he does well but before we make him a top 15 qb we need to see him. As it is stated the he was in a simple offense at LSU.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:00 pm
that was insider of JR>
July 21st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Jim, some people thought that perriloux should have started over Jamarcus as a freshman because the kid had the same arm with VY mobility. after that kid got kicked off the team this past offseason and is now at Central floridaK a half way house for colloge football players that make too many bad decisions, you will never here anyone say that Jamarcus wasn’t the best qb at Lsu that year. Not even Peyton “dominated” the sec: he choked in a couple of big games. The pac10 is not the same as theSEC. perriloux got arressted last year and flynn stepped up and won. that is the difference between the Sec and the pac 10: you are expected to win. i love the trojans and i am a big fan of the pac 10 because i live in Cali, but the pac 10 is not the same level of football as the sec. the pac 10 is known for pro style offenses, but the speed of the defenses is what sets the sec apart. the last 4 1st rd pick graded qb’s from the sec were all well prepared for the nfl: eli in 04, Cambell in 05, Cutler in 06, and now JR. i bet tebow will have a better grade than both Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco if he comes out next year. The floor is not as low on kids that play well at qb from the sec.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:07 pm
carter is a bigger threat than porter, but that is not saying much. why have’t the jags been criticized for taking a big slow and selfish wr and giving him a 10 million garunteed contract?
July 21st, 2008 at 9:12 pm
Jim
Are you really going to tell me that Russell would not have been the starter or had his teams support if he would have returned for his SR year at LSU?
C’mon man…really?
And stop trying to sing the praises of the Pac-10. Outside of USC, there isn’t a team in the Pac-10 who could compete in the SEC.
This is from Russell’s bio…
Russell became the all-time passing leader in Alabama high school history as he threw for 10,744 yards in his career, eclipsing the mark set by former University of Alabama and current Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Brodie Croyle. He also is ranked as the fifth all-time career rusher in Alabama high school history with 7,362 yards. As a senior in 2002, Russell connected on 219-of-372 passes for 3,332 yards and 22 touchdowns. He was named Alabama’s Mr. Football and SuperPrep Dixie Offensive Player of the Year. He was named also to the PARADE All-America Team. Further he was nominated to the SuperPrep All-America Team, FSN South’s Countdown to Signing Day All-South First Team, Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100 and the Orlando Sentinel All-Southern team.
He was a consensus top five national pro-style quarterback in every major recruiting publication in the 2003 recruiting class.
By the fall 2005 season, Russell was the undisputed starting quarterback for LSU.
He led LSU to a 10-1 regular season record, the SEC Western Division title, and a top-5 ranking going into the SEC Championship Game. He also improved statistically, completing 60 percent of his passes for 2,443 yards and 15 touchdowns. Russell received an honorable mention on the AP’s All-SEC Team.
Russell was the starting quarterback again at LSU in 2006, beating out backup Matt Flynn and highly-touted redshirt freshman Ryan Perrilloux. He had a productive 2006 regular season, leading the Tigers to a 10-2 record and a BCS Sugar Bowl berth. He threw for 2,797 yards, 26 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. He was also second in the SEC with 2,923 yards from scrimmage. He also won the SEC Offensive Player Of the Week award three times during the regular season.
At the end of the 2006 season, Russell was named to the all-SEC first team.
4x SEC Offensive Player of the Week (1 in 2005, 3 in 2006)
First-team All-SEC by the Associated Press and SEC coaches (2006)
Manning Award (2006) - The Manning Award has been presented annually since 2004 to the collegiate American football quarterback adjudged by the Sugar Bowl Committee to be the best in the United States
The Manning Award is the only one of the major college football awards not to be presented prior to the contesting of bowl games; it is thus the only award presented in the calendar year subsequent to that of the season for which it is earned.
Davey O’Brien Award semifinalist (2006)
Sugar Bowl MVP (2007)
……………………….
Not dominate at LSU?
You can do better than that Jim!
July 21st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
don’t read too much into offensive system. VY played in the spread offense at Texas and was taken no.3 over two polished qb who played in pro style offenses. what matters is if the kid can play. JR proved his worth against defenses from Goergia, florida, Tennesse, and Auburn. He saw nfl type defenses and played at a high level. playing in an nfl type offense is what agents say to bolster the stock of players that did not play against the top level talent: SEC defenses. when Tebow comes ou nobody will care what offense, spread, he ran. they will only care that he made a lot of big time plays against he best.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Jim,
I’ll never say it so just enjoy the jersey.
We’ll get you next year.
GOOOOOOOO LAKERS!
Oh, did you like my fake yahoo name; Pau Gasoft? I thought you might appreciate it…
July 21st, 2008 at 9:21 pm
damn k rock don’t hurt em
July 21st, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Wasn’t trying to hurt anyone.
It’s just funny to me that Russell was the greatest thing since sliced bread until he came out his JR year and got drafted by the Raiders.
Now he is a huge question mark?
I don’t think so.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Russell is fine and those who worry dont understand a damn thing
July 21st, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Tony Stewart has been impressing Kiffin in camp. Look for him to play much more this year.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:47 pm
i haer you k rock. Jr is a stud, and he seems to be a born leader. Kiffin has said numerous times that Jr has beem going hard all off season, and has been stepping up as the leader on a day to day basis. that is all I ask of him. everything else will fall into place. Even the wr corps will be solid with him back there. his arm allows them to make plays even if they can’t get seperation.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:55 pm
I don’t know about everyone else, but I’m kind of getting nostalgic for that tremendous trio of receivers from the 2006 team: Alvis Whitted, Carlos Francis, and Johnny Morant.
July 21st, 2008 at 9:56 pm
it is hard to put stock into players that shine at mini camps or ota’s. I will have to wait until i see them in action or doin it well in the SEC like JR and DMAC.
July 21st, 2008 at 10:01 pm
that trio kind of reminds me off Drew carter( alvis), Johnny lee ( carlos), and schillens (morant). i wont hold my breath or piss myself in the preseason if they make a play
July 21st, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I get to see Shockey in action when the Raiders visit the Saints this year.
Have my tickets, hotel, and dinner reservations at Emeril’s NOLA.
I hope they pull out the win.
July 21st, 2008 at 10:53 pm
that will be a great game. i would say the edge is with the saints but their strength is the pass, and the Raiders are on par with any pass attack. any qb that attacks the Raiders through the air will throw at least two picks.
July 22nd, 2008 at 1:57 am
Although I along with everybody else feel that what Javon Walker did in Vegas was down right stupid, Im tempted to believe that he might’ve learned his lesson for real this time.
Unfortunately it took a mean ass beating for him to understand the importance of his job on and off the field. Part of thier job as an athlete is to conduct themselves responsibly off field because whats done off field can effect what happens on field. So not only was his job put at risk but now his responsibilty as a leader will now be second-guessed.
Now as for Drew Carter; I was hoping we would make a run for him well before we signed Javon Walker. I believe his potential hasnt even been tapped into yet. I also said back in April that his numbers would probably be greater than Walker’s
just for the simple fact teams will focus on Walker as well as Curry more. Drew Carter has already shown every quality that a leader should have. He’s shown up in shape, he’s been working his ass off to get familiar with our offensive scheme, and its probably safe to assume he’s been a responsible man off the field, everything Javon Walker was supposed to have been. So look for the results to show up during the season. Hopefully he’ll have a breakout year and the Raiders sign him to a long-term deal. YA KNOW?!
July 22nd, 2008 at 2:03 am
I really wish we hadn’t won 4 games last year, because these bandwagoners are just killing me. We increase our win total from 2 to 4, and suddenly everyone’s a Raider fan again. SilverNBlack666, I know you agree with me. This is ridiculous.
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:04 am
I am such a Raider fan nothing matters. I have been here since Frank Ewell Fields (sp) in 1963 but I believe we have 5 straight Superbowls and three undefeated seasons, am I drinking the koolaid or what?
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:26 am
I was at the Heidi game with my brother, I died with the Immaculate reception and I died with the Tuck rule as well,, just not as much.I love the Raiders, the Tooz, Stabler, the three rings, and more. We have so much more coming I can’t believe it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:39 am
Oh yeah! Greg Wesley signed! htat mean Hiram is good as gone, and Jarrod is on his way =)
NICE, I like our roster more and more =)
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:45 am
If we lose more than two games I will be shocked! We own the next five rings!
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:56 am
Jim CT…
I agree with K-Rock… and to quote yourself:
“I hope he does well but before we make him a top 15 qb we need to see him. As it is stated the he was in a simple offense at LSU.”
you talk about tendencies… isn’t it a bit early to talk about Russels tendencies?? isn’t it a bit early to call him a flop??, he was in a simple offense, well how many QB’s haven’t been in a simple O in college?
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:00 am
Daaraiders…
woaw… only lose 2 games, the cake you’ve been eating cant be legal…
we gonna lose at least 5… and RINGS? what are you talking about, yeah I believe we will get a trip to the big game during the next 3 years, but 5 rings??
I read this “I believe we have 5 straight Superbowls and three undefeated seasons” and how does that compute?
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:16 am
why are we so focused on DB’s and not D line??
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:26 am
CopenhagenFan..
Greg spires, Kalimba Edwards, William Joseph and scott I guess 4 new guys must be enough!?
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:56 am
Dunno bout that
July 22nd, 2008 at 5:04 am
2 more days away!!!!!! Im getting chills I can’t wait till the pads are on and we can see what’s up with thw o line and d line who’s getting dominated and who’s being the dominator im always in go raiders
July 22nd, 2008 at 6:09 am
I can’t wait until the season starts so the silver and black can embarrass all these haters that are so down on the RAIDERS. You hardly ever hear anything about the RAIDERS on ESPN, CBS, FOX, OR NFL.COM. If you do its something negative. I am really ticked at NFL.com. They should spread the news equally about all teams and no just the chosen few. I can’t wait until we make all of them eat crow.
July 22nd, 2008 at 6:13 am
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24036736-7583,00.html
July 22nd, 2008 at 6:14 am
Top Concerns:
1. STOP THE RUN. I’m actually glad to see Saap go, he was awful against the run so i do think we have stepped it up a bit. Kelly, Wilson, Hall are all nice additions but its still my #1 concern.
2. STOP THE PASS RUSH. New offensive scheme, more mobile qb and zone blocking did give us a dramatic boost but other than gallery everyone else is suspect. JR will try to be the hero he is getting paid to be and without adequate time im concerned about an injury.
3. JR PERFORMING. Mostly things ride on his shoulders. Can he play smart and controlled? Can he be accurate enough? Can he develop into the leader a QB needs to be?
4. LOCKER ROOM DRAMA. Davis/Kiffin, Kiffin/Ryan, Kiffin/Walker, Kiffin/Hall, Nnamdi/Raiders.
What will Work:
1. RUNNING GAME. We should be a top 3 running team. DMAC and Fargas will eat up yards and i expect Bush to get his shot when Fargas invariably gets hurt due to his reckless running style. What we didnt have last year was a RB who can catch…we have that this year in DMAC and Bush! Im anxious to see Bush and DMAC, with Bush im concerned he is a bit slow and although huge he wasnt known to be a line breaking back so i am not sure he fits the short yardage specialist role despite his size.
2. PASS DEFENSE. Best secondary i have ever seen period. Nnamdi/Hall will close the outside giving plenty of opportunities for our new SS and FS and ball hawking LB’s to get some picks. If we can get a decent pass rush its going to be great fun to watch.
08 Prediction: 9-7 just missing playoffs.
July 22nd, 2008 at 6:23 am
oh and btw i hate mike lombardi….
July 22nd, 2008 at 6:30 am
Carter insurance? My concern is our top 3 receivers (Walker, Curry, and Carter) are coming off knee injuries and surgery. My other concern is Walker’s eye injury from that whole Vegas debacle, and if he is ready to play, and how much will the orbital bone fracture effect his vision?
We still lack a true #1 receiver, even if Walker is ready to play. I am still hoping we can land Ocho-Cinco in a trade. This is one of the areas I’m concerned about coming into the season. The top area of concern for me is Left Tackle. We did nothing to upgrade in this position. Receiver is #2 concern, and DT is #3.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:11 am
There are at least 2 posters today speculating on “Al’s patience” and floating the idea that Kiffin could potentially be sacked as head coach if the Raiders start slow this season.If the Raiders don’t improve, Kiffin is probably in jeopardy come January 2009,I will grant you that. But, is it just me or have we all drunk the “Al is insane” kool-aid? Am I the only one that remembers/knows that Al Davis has only ever fired ONE head coach in the middle of the season, ever? In 43 years as “owner” of the Raiders Al has fired one coach mid season. Mike Shanahan in 1989. That’s it. Once. But, there is this urban legend that Al Davis is unbalanced, impatient and has a hair trigger and won’t have any qualms about firing his coach in the middle of the season. That he’ll can his HC in October or November in a heartbeat. Won’t think twice. It’s total B.S. One coach in 43 years.Anybody remember Joe Bugel? Ok,how about Art Shell in 2006? If Al were ever to fire a HC mid season it would’ve been one of those two. And he didn’t.He has this reputation for doing something he has only done one time in over forty years.And even so he has gone on record saying he regrets it.That he should’ve waited until the season was over. It’s ridiculous. I believe the Raiders will go 7-9 at worst in 2008 and Kiffin will keep his job anyway.But whatever the record ends up being,Lane Kiffin won’t be fired in the middle of the season. Al Davis doesn’t do that despite the false belief to the contrary.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:14 am
Dunno bout that nate I think our guys will truely flourish in kiffins system granted we provide russell with the protection needed. His mobility alone gives the recievers added time to get to the spots because recievers can’t be guarded all day long. I think we will be fine my concern is the o line and d line I hop kelly comes bach 100% and his knee holds up and everyone else in the trenches contribut to many 3 and outs
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:20 am
So we signed greg wesley?
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:24 am
One thing that hampered the passing game last year was the quarterback by committee approach Kiffen had to take. I know these guys are professionals and are paid to adjust and adapt but working with all of the different quarterback styles last year is a serious challenge for wide receivers and the passing game in general.
Settling on Jamarcus will have many other positive effects that will elevate the play at receiver. That should fall under the “whats to like” category.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:29 am
I still think we need Chris Henry
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:31 am
We need Chris Henry
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:34 am
Good point charlie I agree with that statement
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:39 am
We don’t need a player like henry, he’s a cancer. Some people just can’t seem to stay out of trouble and he fits the bill he has no appreciation for the opportunity he has of being able to get paid to play football. All he will do is continue to piss all over he chances till he’s suspended and out of the league
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:52 am
Rob, if Chris Henry was an athletic LT with pro bowl potential you would be correct.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:53 am
Or, if Chris Henry were a 330 lb. beast at DT like Corey Williams, you would be correct.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:54 am
Or, if Chris Henry were a run stopping phenom at LB like Lance Briggs, you would be correct.
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:00 am
Or, if Chris Henry were a savvy GM like Ron Wolf who could convince Al to draft football players like Freddy B and Marcus instead of track stars, you would be correct.
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:03 am
Hey Jerry I always enjoy reading your articles. I’m a 35 year Raider fan and every year since 02 I get excited around this time about the upcoming season. Prior to 2002 I pretty much expected that we would be competitive. While we added a lot of much needed talent in the offseason something just don’t seem right. I try to be optimistic just like in years past but for some reason I think this might just be another losing season. I hope J Rus is all that people says he is but I have a feeling we may have been better off with Quinn. Hope I’m wrong. As for our receivers I to think that Drew Carter may be our best offseason move, I live in the Charlotte area and A lot of folks around here hated to see him leave. As for Walker does anyone remember Wright, Gault, Howard, Moss all free agent bust.
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:19 am
The raiders have an uncanny knack for keeping players that go awry on other teams in check while here for acouple of seasons,thats all we need from chris henry til one of the younger guys develop
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:21 am
pressdemocrat.com/article/20080721/SPORTS/207744961/1036/news07&title=10_key_issues_for_Raider_Nation
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:24 am
wow the news article on this paper is old news, about former players bashing the Raiders, can’t they find something new to publish, this is old stuff we already heard them all complain when they left. can’t wait for training camp…
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:28 am
with james lofton as his position coach,a new environment it might not be a bad idea to bring in chris henry…but on javegas walker,we’ll see how he shows up in camp and he probably wont get much work in preseason games so we wont know til week two,why i say that is cuz players tend to elevate their game to face there old team ala daunte culpepper in miami last year….that was his best game as a raider…after that he looked inconsistent and coach kiffin basically went with Mc Cown. so we’ll see how Javegas does in weeks two and three and so forth tose games will tell the tail.
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:37 am
Drew Carter will be JR’s most reliable reciver this year and curry will be his third down goto guy he will also have his TE who caught more passes than any other rookie TE last season not to mention the recieving skill of bush and Mc Faddon,also if we do decide to play madsen as an Ed McCaffrey style receiver that would work as well as it did for elway so if javon shows up out of shape an still effected by HIS own actions cut his ass lets not bring that baggage in to the season.
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:54 am
enough with the donkey analogs already! JaMarcus as the new Elway, Madsen as McCaffrey… can’t anyone find a less hated way of expressing the talents of Raiders than to compare them to burros?
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:56 am
Walker may be cut from the team before the season even starts.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:05 am
I don´t know why people are so high on Higgins, doesn´t anybody remeber last year? He had one good return, but he had trouble fielding punts, and he´s average sucked. I hope he improves, but I´m not real excited about the guy…Drew Carter has the right attitude, but it all comes down to catching the ball. Remember Stu´s attitude, hellofa guy but coudn´t tackle, so we hated on him. Here´s hoping our offense does not depend on our WR´s, if McFadden, Miller and Bush get the bulk of the catches we´ll be alright (i think).
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:06 am
At the very least Walker, in the infamous words of Ricky Ricardo, “got some ’splainin’ to do.”
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:09 am
Malosos,
Johnnie Lee might be overmatched in the NFL, we don’t know. Maybe his “deer-in-the-headlights” first year performance will grow some cojones this year.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:26 am
JLH is the least of our problems, I am more concerned about our punt coverage team, they are starting to hurt Lechler’s chances to make it to the HOF with those TD returns late last season (said with some sarcasm).
I was surprised to see the ST coordinator remain…almost as surprised as I was to see RR keep his job. I don’t remember anything “special” about our special teams last year. Returns were not that good, Jano missed some important FGs, Lechler had two punts returned…why didn’t we fire the ST guy?
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:39 am
Obviously the ST coach is a “scholarship” coach, lol.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:42 am
Dakota,
didn’t you have “special” class in school?
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:44 am
Many people talk about how the Raiders have had success with malcontents like Henry etc. in the past.
What is different today is that:
A salary cap exists which inhibits our ability to compete if the risk player does not work out.
The Raiders do not have the informal player leaders that they used to have in Upshaw, Shell, Otto and Willie Brown.
Coaches can do just so much. This type of player intervention is one of the reasons the Raiders got rid of Dave Casper. He was no longer aligned with the program and he was becoming a cancer. Everyone likes to look to Al Davis. What about the players? Talent needed to be improved but the players need to push themselves.
The Raiders have to realize that times have changed and character is too important an issue to ignore.
I submit exhibit A as Javon Walker.
An earlier post suggested he may not make it out of camp. That may be true.
I applaud the Giants regarding the Jermey Shockey move.
His BS was going to hurt the team regardless of his physical talents.
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:47 am
Dakota,
I thought the ST did pretty good until some injuries hurt them late in the season.
They held Hester anyway. That has to be worth something. Just ask Shanarat!
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:55 am
Charlie,
your points about player attitude and leadership are well observed. As well, players back in the day had to have supplementary employment in the off-season in many cases to get by as their NFL salaries were nominal. Kept even the malcontents from getting too out of line.
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:05 am
K-Rock,
If it was “injuries” that made them “perform” so “poorly” late in the year, then I can see why Al kept him “around”…I forgot about their “performance” against Hester…that was “special”.
M,
I took the “special” quotation mark classes.
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:10 am
“D”a”k”o”t”a”,
and you must have passed with excellentricity.
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:14 am
profootballtalk.com/2008/07/22/espn-launches-football-blog-network/
Jerry, you’re about to lose the blog wars… I can live with Bill Williamson, I like what he has been writing the last year or so… I bet ESPN will have registration
Jerry Mac you are our prefered ‘beat’ writer, it must be possible to get this done?
…dammit…
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:14 am
M
They told me I was “uberexceptionalistic” in my learning.
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:14 am
And on the way to those classes he rode on the “special” little bus…
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:16 am
http://blogs.setonhill.edu/KaitlinMonier/eds%20short%20bus.jpg
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:19 am
LMN, good pt.
Jerry’s reality cnocerning the blog registration is this: his ad sales guys do not just coput the number of comments, they also count the number of “click-throughs”. In other words, every time we hit F5 to refresh, they have a stronger sales position. Newspapers are sucking financiial hind-tit these days…just ask Sam Zell. Everything they do is geared toward making money off of online, non-subscribing readers. Nothing will change until we all actually leave this blog…
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:20 am
* count, no coput.