Training camp, Day 10 (P.M. practice)
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 at 9:29 pm in Oakland Raiders, Preseason (2005), Raiders features.
Quick hits from Saturday night’s light practice:
– Visual evidence suggests JaMarcus Russell will be back to normal as far as arm strength by Monday when the 49ers arrive for two practice sessions.
The passing game was again erratic, but Russell launched one with seemingly little effort that sailed a good 50 to 55 yards in the air, with Todd Watkins catching it over DeAngelo Hall.
– One sideline observer with NFL experience was unimpressed with the Raiders passing game, particularly with the amount of balls hitting the ground in seven-on-seven drills. Exceptional passing teams can go entire sessions without an incomplete pass, given that the quarterback is not rushed and has time to wait for receivers to come free.
It’s worth noting, however, that there were sessions even worse last year with Josh McCown, Walter and Daunte Culpepper and the season before with Aaron Brooks and Walter.
– Rookie Arman Shields missed practice again and was joined on the sidelines by Ronald Curry, who practiced in the morning session and practices only once on two-a-days. Jake Grove, another one-a-day performer, also sat out. Guard Robert Gallery was given the evening off and cornerback John Bowie (knee) and linebacker Grant Irons (hamstring) did not practice.
– With Grove and Gallery out, John Wade started at center and Paul McQuistan worked at left guard.
– Marques Tuiasosopo connected on a deep throw to Jonathan Holland over Rashad Baker and Darrick Brown, but later had a pass stolen by Hall in the end zone.
– Defensive end Trevor Scott was sent jogging because of an offsides call.
– Andrew Walter fumbled a center snap, causing Kiffin to call for a new quarterback.
– The Raiders evening practice was shorter than usual, with the families of many players and coaches arriving for the yearly “Family Day.” Families were invited to join players for dinner at the facility after practice, with some leaving to go to local restaurants.
– Rookies had an 11:15 p.m. curfew, but veterans were allowed to head back to the Bay Area if they wished to enjoy Sunday off. The Raiders return to practice with a double session Monday, a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers with sessions at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
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August 2nd, 2008 at 9:30 pm
go raiders
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Thanks for the update Bro
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Great read Jerry! Wish they could get a little longer tho, it seems I just can’t get enough reading of this stuff!!!!
You said earlier you’d have more on Javon Walker, how did he look in the evening session?
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:35 pm
NATION should have paid 1 mil just for a psych eval of this guy.
I dont like this report either. No news of DMAC MBUSH Fargas? Where is ZACH? Who was the sideline observer? ex coach, ex player?
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Thec-i concur.sideline observer-that’s as bad as unnamed sources.who are you talking about Jerry,some guy who played a year or two,an ex coach,a scout or personell person?
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Exactly Thec. Who was this “sideline observer with NFL experience”? Is it someone on the Raiders staff? And which teams went their entire session with no incomplete passes today? Javon will be exactly who we thought he would be when Al signed him…Nothing more, nothing less. Trevor Scott might be ready for the olympics after all of the laps he’s had to take…
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:43 pm
thec Says:
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Carl,i didnt mean what i said ,ive got to keep up my image ,im a little man,dont tell anyone,nite all!
Hey carl, nice work playing me or in blog terms nice job troll. I dont have an “image” I am just a fan of the NATION. If you feel like i came at you thats on you Bro thats a U problem.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:43 pm
plus the worst part,Thec,is that will be it until monday.with no practices Sunday,Jerry will probably take the day off(and he should).
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Thanks Jerry. I appreciate that with the Walker issue you’ve been writing and chasing down quotes ll night after watching practice during the day.
With a rookie QB and unproven WR’s it isn’t surprising the passing game is lagging. Watkins continues to shine though.
Thanks for the updates.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:45 pm
wow… goes from good camp to the Raiders an’t do anything right.
When bad news come out with the Raiders, the press want’s to focus on the bad…..
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:45 pm
I hate this NSA, cia FBI MI% alphebet soup keep the fans in the dark BS. This isnt politics, global warming, UFO’s or the loch ness monster its football.
The media should be straight and tell the truth.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:46 pm
VBR-at least he(Scott) is on the field.this guy Shields almost never practices,and alot of people on here think he should be one of our WRs.go figure.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:47 pm
Don’t bother naming the observer. Anybody who follows the NFL knows 7-on-7 is hEAVILY weighted for offense. It is classified as a PASSING drill for a reason.
No need to hear your source branded an uneducated hater for stating the obvious.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Jerry, I dont wan to sound like an ingrate, as i do appreciate all the hard work you do, i am just frustrated with the BS…..
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Good thing we’re focused on the run. Our passing game seems to be struggling.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:49 pm
It’s not hard to figure that with little presure he should be completing throws. a little perspective aint bad… Russel will not have his best year this year …unless it be his last.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:51 pm
coach, concure, anyone who has played could figure this out… peace
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Coach on Wheels:
Thanks for your response, appreciated the insights.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:52 pm
[...] Read more. Posted in Blog, Oakland Raiders | [...]
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Guys this last report wasn’t all bad.
Walker says he is recommitted. If we assume otherwise that’s not the media - that’s us.
Watkins and Hall are playing well. Scott having problems is nothing. He was drafted so low he was a major longshot anyway.
Relax.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Coach, thanks for the resync. I have calmed down a bit.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:56 pm
I wonder how much of JR’s injury is impacting his passing.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:57 pm
COW,btw,i owe you an apology.the other day when we were all discussing A.Walters i misread one of your posts and commented on it.you stated how Shell and Walsh ruined AW but i thought you also said Norv did also,when you didn’t say that.so sorry.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Thec
Agree with you 100%… Jerry, you need to do it right. We appreciate all you do for us in reporting the highlights, but we do need names of ex-coaches, we do need some word on the big hopefuls, such as DM, MB, ZM, etc.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:01 pm
It just seemed like we have been getting a lot of bad news. I am a member of the NATION but damn i feel distracted from my fan dome, wonder how the team feels.
Coach would the team rallying behind this guy help? and would they rally behind him at this point?
If he stays he better perform, would hate to see one of our younf turks cut.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:01 pm
i read somewhere the other day that if camp ended today,Z.Miller would be the MVP of training camp.it’s funny how different things catch different writers eyes,as Jerry seems really focused on Nnamdi and Hall.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Kiffin, wanted to keep 5. He may be forced to keep 6 now. Also kiffin questioned this guys stability.
Walker needs to get help before he can be of any
help to the NATION or himself.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Lefty
Good to hear you take from another observer. Zack Miller had an awesome rookie year and we can only hope for better, if he doesn’t have to stay back and help block because our o-line (starting with Harris) can’t do their “freaking” jobs. I see another Dave Casper in Zack Miller, especially if he was allowed to run his routes.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Kiffin isn’t taking any negatives from Walter, especially a dropped snap. Come’on Walter, get your act together.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Riverside-of all our great past TEs,i agree,Miller reminds me of Casper the most also.not only did Casper have great hands he was a fantastic blocker.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:12 pm
Gallery is a recent “newly wed.” Maybe Kiffin gave him the nite out to spend time with the wife-ie…an evening out, flowers, dinner with wine, etc.?
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Lefty:
Dave Casper was awesome. Besides catching and blocking, as you mentioned, he could always out “muscle” the defenders and come down with the ball. Come on Zack, we know you can do the same.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:16 pm
I’m curious to know how much full contact is involved with a scrimmage practice against the 49ers. Can our offensive line cut block them or are they held to the same rules during practice that they have when they practice against themselves? I also wonder how much each team will open up in practice, especially considering they will be playing each other on Friday.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:17 pm
Kiffin isn’t deciding anything fellas…
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Man, Aso’s lookin’ AWESOME!!!
I hope D burg gets back into the double digits and joins Aso in Hawaii next year…
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:25 pm
Russell isn’t PERFECT in his FIRST training camp!
OMG, the sky is falling!!!!
“Exceptional passing teams can go entire sessions without an incomplete pass, given that the quarterback is not rushed and has time to wait for receivers to come free.”
Since when has there been any indication the Raiders would be a wide-open, high-flying offense?
Kiffin said he wants Russell to be smart and limit turnovers. An incomplete pass is much better than an INT.
The running game will carry this offense.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:25 pm
Huff24:
Excellent point. In Jerry’s notes a few days ago, he stated that Kiffin said that if the practice gets “out of hand?)” that he would stop it??????????????????
What does “out of hand” mean? Also, as you indicated, does that mean we don’t show everything? We hide our best for Friday? We don’t “totally open up?” Maybe it’s just a media thing? I remember, years back, we use to run a full work out with the Cowboys when they use to have their training camp down in Thousand Oaks. I believe, but may be wrong, that it would be very much like a game day workout, one equal to pre-season?
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:32 pm
i believe Kiffin did say it would be a practice,not a scrimmage,but i could be mistaken.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:33 pm
take the money and let him retire
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Huff,you seem to know these things.where can i get the contract status on players,specifically D.Burgess?
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:38 pm
I agree with K-Rock and COW…the passing game is built on timing, precision, and familiarity and the Raiders have a 2nd yr QB and basically all new WR’s (especially when Curry sits out). I would not expect it to be consistently good in the first week of camp. Just keep improving/working every day, week, months.
The O is going to lean on the running game because that is where the strengths lie with the personnel. JRuss just needs to protect the ball and produce in the redzone and continue to get better.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:38 pm
post 34-whatever.i thought you weren’t chiming in until after the donkey game?
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:40 pm
http://content.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/salaries/teamdetail.aspx?team=23&year=2007
Lefty 12 - From what I understand…contract amounts get reported on an annual basis so these numbers are from 2007 and will be updated for 2008 at some point but I don’t know when. This just happened for the highest paid actors as well.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:43 pm
Huff,thanks.but i’m wondering about the length of his contract-when is he signed thru.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:45 pm
We also don’t expect this team to be a playoff team either. On top of that, I personally expect the defense to be better than the offense this year, much like I expected last year but who knows? If our offense is better, which it should be, the defense “should” have an easier time this year than they did last year. I believe the reality of this season is to expect an 8-8 season which I think is fair. Anything better would be even better. With our easier schedule, I can see 10-6 but thats overly optimistic for a very young offense and a defense that has better players but questionable results every year.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Left 12 - Its my understanding that Burgess is signed for this year and the next so 2 years left.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Sorry…meant Lefty.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Huff-thanks,that’s what i was wondering.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Signed to a five-year, $17.5 million contract on March 12, 2005.
Burgess should be signed through March 2nd, 2010. (The strart of the 2010 free agency).
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:50 pm
That should mean a big pay day for Burgess if we don’t have a salary cap if there isn’t a new agreement with the union/NFL.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:52 pm
Huff24
Suppose we go 3 and 1 into the bye week, how many wins do you predict for the year?
Also, suppose we go 4 - 0 into the bye week, then how many wins do you predict?
I feel you’re being a little too conservative, but, on the other hand, maybe more realistic?
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:53 pm
yea,but he’ll be over 30 yrs old.it will be harder for him to get that long term deal at 31 or 32.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Riverside Raiders Fan - You know…every year, I predict the Raiders to be good and for the last 5 years, I have been extremely disappointed so I’d hate to give this team high expectations when they desperately need to prove to me that they’re worth it. I think you would agree that our defense was expected to carry this team and to be great and they failed miserably so what can we really expect from them? Is it our scheme? Is it our defensive line? There are too many questions to know.
When it comes to our offense, is JR going to be great this year or the next if at all? Will McFadden is Bush be great or will Fargas stay healthy and repeat great numbers? Will Miller have a sophmore slump? Can our tackles block for us. Will any of our receivers be great? Will AD keep Kiffin for the entire year to coach the team? How many games will Janikowski lose for us?
To me…this looks like an 8-8 season because I think the Raiders will surprise us during some games and disappoint us in others but it will be enough to see a competitive and progressive team which is what we’re looking for. If the Raiders are better than expected, I can definately see a 10-6 record. Our division isn’t very strong anymore and thats what might get us into the playoffs. I think we can go 3-1 in the first 4 games and I think we’ll lose to the Chargers in the 1st game of the year but I think we’ll be better and beat them in the 2nd game.
The beautiful thing is…If the Chargers are worse off and we win the division, thats automatic playoffs for us so thats our biggest goal. Its a race with the Chargers.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:01 pm
Lefty 12 - Well…If we can pay a rookie or Walker millions of dollars and they haven’t even played for us…I think it would be fair to pay Burgess for what he has already done for us. I think we can accomplish that with a 3-4 year deal and I think he can still be productive enough for us during that time. Maybe he will benefit even more with a different defensive coordinator as well? Who knows.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:13 pm
If Javon retires I need to know cuz he’s on my team and he needs to carry my a$$! I’m calling trade!
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:15 pm
The raiders should sign chris henry because javon scares me. I say sign henry and have javon play just four games and if he plays like sh*t in those four games then ask him to retire and give the money back so that way when he leaves we can just throw chris in there and not really miss a beat.(;
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 pm
im tired of these global warming morons ,the NSA ,and the other space cadets !In due time,it will be only RAIDERS!!
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Huff,agreed.i think next year we could sign him to say a 3 yr extension.the question will be ,will he want more than that and will he over-price himself.of course we could front load the deal and sign him to a 5 year deal,knowing he probably won’t be around that long.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Now this is the kind of news that makes you want to break into a “Wizard of Oz” themed song.
DORSEY SUFFERS SPRAINED LEFT KNEE
Posted by Mike Florio on August 2, 2008, 11:17 p.m.
Chiefs rookie defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2008 draft, suffered a sprained left knee on Saturday in a collision with a teammate during training camp practice.
Dorsey will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.
During the 2007 season, Dorsey suffered a sprained right knee. He had other injury issues that created concerns prior to the draft. But not enough of a concern to cause him to drop out of the top five.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:20 pm
Lefty 12 - Burgess is a Pro Bowl Defensive End who has been a great player and I believe he should be paid accordingly. Most would feel that he would be over priced but the guy gets results, especially for playing on a poor defensive line that puts him in double teams and chip blocks on a regular basis. You could do something like a 3 Year $25 million deal and I think that would be sufficient for one of the better defensive ends in the league.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:20 pm
unbelievable-Walker scares you but you want to sign a troublesome Henry.i don’t get some peoples thinking.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:22 pm
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2935483
Lefty 12 - This is what Dwight Freeney got for his contract and they are very similiar players.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:23 pm
Henry isn’t worth it. What has he done to give anybody reason to sign the guy? Replace one bad apple with another?
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Huff-i hear where you are coming from.i’d like to see him stay.but we will have to deal with Nnamdi again and i’m wondering if both can be kept.i hope we can,but we’ll have to wait and see.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:28 pm
Lefty 12 - To me…great cover corners are harder to find then guys who can come up with sacks. Example is watching Chris Clemons get 8 sacks last year. Its very difficult to get a guy who can shut down half of the field ala Deion Sanders. Now…nobody is Deion but Asomugha is well…Awesome. I would definatelt pay Aso before Burgess if I had to choose between the 2 and since Burgess has at least received a contract during his tenure, I think its important to sign a drafted Raider who has performed great who doesn’t have the millions that other NFL players have. On top of that…he has too much class not to take care of him.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Henry is a bad apple and trouble.Walker isn’t necessarily a bad apple,just going through some hard times mentally right now.if Walker wants to play,i’d take him over Henry any day.Walker has been to the pro-bowl-Henry was the 3rd best rec on his old team,and they cut him.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Gotta go. I’ll read up later. Goodnight.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:32 pm
lefty 12, i hear what youre saying ,I say give Walker a chance ,well sign Nnamdi next year,dont worry, bro
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:35 pm
Javon, dude, it’s football. Get your a$$ out there and catch some dam balls! This should be fun! I know money has a way of corrupting things, but c’mon dude! Check your personal baggage at the front desk of the Marriott and hit the field like the athlete you’re being paid to be! I hope your “recommitment” to the game is for reals, and not just because uncle Al layeth the smaketh down on you. It would be a bad thing if he really wasn’t into it, and he was just saying that because Al didn’t let him retire. Now a days, nothing surprises me from this team. That’s why I love the Raiders.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:39 pm
btw,EL-don’t give up on him yet.if you can afford to, sit on him he’ll probably turn out ok.if you trade him and he does well,you’ll kick yourself all year,plus you’ll have to go against him and that will really piss you off!
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:45 pm
Anyway, I still think we’ll be ok with Carter and Curry. Now if we can get Holland or Higgins to step their game, we’ll be in business. It’s a good thing we’ll be running the ball most of the time, that will help our passing game as well. DON’T FORGET MILLER! This guy is legit, and he will be freed up a little more now that O’Neal and Bush will be helping to pass protect on passing plays.
To be fair, Walker should get the benefit of the doubt, yes, even after his recent episode of Favreitits, that $hit must be contagious…
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:50 pm
I personally would want to see Javon the first 2 preseasn games B4 making any decision on him one way or the other. We have him now let’s see what he has rather than totally waste the opportunity. It will work itself out over he course of the preseason then he’ll know more about whatever he wants to do.
I know this has got most people really concerned but I don’t a problem especially if he decides to retire at least giving the team the advantage by freeing up the money by retiring. Just pens up an opportunity for someone else. This problem will solve itself.
Big Al will use the money to lockup Nnamdi.
I just want to see a game more than anything, I need to see where we are.
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Lefty,
Let’s be honest. Henry was the 3rd-best receiver on his team because he was behind a pair of Pro-Bowlers. He’d definitely be the most physically talented receiver on the Raiders.
At this point, I’ll be SHOCKED if Walker is anything but an extremely expensive bust with the Raiders. I understand the team probably didn’t want to shove him out the door when he mentioned retirement, but you’ve gotta wonder if most people in the organization were secretly hoping he wouldn’t change his mind. Obviously his heart isn’t in it and his past performance didn’t merit the kind of money they’re paying him in the first place. With the money the Raiders are paying Walker they could have Chris Henry, Terry Glenn and millions to spare instead.
I’ve been as optimistic as anyone these last few seasons that the Raiders were on the verge of turning it around. But here we are, not even into the exhibition season, and the warning signs and doubts are already picking up.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:00 am
If all of us regular fans knew Walker was a high risk the moment we signed him, I sure hope the front office (mainly Al) knew that as well. But that’s the fall of the gambling man, sometimes you still make the bet when you know the odds are slightly against you…
Anyway, I’m trying to be fair on this, we all make mistakes and let the worst of us get the best of us sometimes. Like I said, I just hope his actions speak louder than his words, not the other way around…
Eitherway, we’ll know soon enough after a few preseason games… If by the Denver game he still hasn’t shown any improvement what so ever, I sure hope they re-evaluate the situation and have a back up plan just in case…
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:02 am
Henry is definiely the most physically talented? how do you know this? Henry may well be after wesee our guy’s but we have some extremely talented young WR.
No matter who’s out there they’re always beter than anything we have. At one time Big Al would be carzy not to get Javon Walker if the opportunity presented itself then Carter now Henry.
After we get Henry he’ll be a bum.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:04 am
Chris-i don’t see a problem child like Henry helping us.if he was as good as some here say he wouldn’t have been cut,teams seem to put up with more if they have a great talent-see Chad Johnson.you know the old saying-the grass is always greener.if Walker is a washout i don’t think he’ll be around that long.but if his knee starts responding,i feel we have a great talent,and with the way we are handling the situation,he could respond very positively and be the player we want and need.we’ll see.we are giving him the love,let’s see how he responds.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:07 am
All of us didn’t know squat because all I read in here was how great Javon Walker was, and how terrible Jerry Porter was.
Truth is you don’t know what you want, you just think you know what you don’t want.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:09 am
Lefty
I want Javon to succeed not just for my team. He has some serious issues that can’t be ignored. I think its bad for the Raiders and worse for him. He needs to step back and have a momment to analyze what’s wrong with him with some psychiatric help. I don’t think anyone can say that he is really going to be productive at all this yr… bad leg, bad head… it sucks.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:10 am
El Dirty, we’ll soon see. Give it 3 weeks.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:10 am
I do have to say one thing about the Raider fans. WE are the most loyal fans (at least us true fans that still wear the colors during a 2-14 season) of any other team or sport. We are right up there with euros and their craze soccer fans. Drunkenness and brutality aside (for some), when it comes to heart, no other fans has us beat.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:11 am
Priest-what we should do is just call Arizona and tell them we want Boldin,then they’ll just say”ok you can have him,how about a 7th round pick and we’ll call it a deal”.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:14 am
then we can call Detroit and get either Johnson or Williams for say a 6th round pick.everyone just wants to give away their best players,especially to Al.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:15 am
Lefty12, I know everyone just overreacts to everything, without much thought. In a couple of weeks chances are we’ll know exactly what’s up then you can make a move with some certainty.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:17 am
#77
I have never said that Walker was a great signing. I have always had my doubts about the whole thing. Just recently I started posting here after reading all the reports. I loved Jerry. I think he had great mentorship with Brown, Rice, Moss, but I also think that he never lived up to his full potential. I was extremely dissapointed when Shell benched him. I think he could’ve helped that offense a lot. But it is what it is.
Anyway, I just wanted to clear that up about Walker. If you read all my recent posts (I just started posting a few days ago) You will see that I’ve been saying that the surprise receiver will be Carter and that Walker might contribute some, but won’t be near of what’s expected of him. I also think however that he won’t be complete bust. Unless he gets injured. In which case, if he isn’t doing that well anyway, might be a blessing in disguise.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:18 am
El-exactly,but no one can say for sure he won’t be productive either.i really believe he is just super frustrated due to his knee.if it doesn’t get better,he can always call it quits at the end of August,and i believe that’s what people told him.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:18 am
No one wants the best of talnt at every position more than I. But that will never happen, at some point we need to take what we have and see exactly what that is, then biuld around it. Right now we don’t know what we have
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:18 am
We need a just incase WR then. 3 weeks is a short time to ramp up someone at this level. Cuz if Javon leaves what does that live us with?
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:22 am
Leave*
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:24 am
And by the way… I do know what I want. I want the Raiders to go at least 8-8. Which is a very realistic expectation with our schedule. I also want to Raiders to do better than that. I want Javon to put on his pads and tie them up tight till he feels his heart beating, to remind him that he still has one. I want the freaking Raiders to win! Oh, and I also want a cheeseburger right now, but I’m too lazy to drive…lol
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:24 am
Priest-i think the Raiders should be commended for the way they are handling the situation-if the reports are true.as i said earlier,it seems they are more concerned with Walker the person than Walker the player which is why Al is so respected by so many in the game.many teams would have just said”fine,give us the money and get lost”.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:25 am
I understand whatyou think but it wnt hurt to wait and see for certain, then you can make a move based on facts instead of what you think might happen.
If he offered to retire he at least he is giving the Raiders the opportunity to get off the hook. I think he’ll appreciate their courtesy and in the end both parties will benefit……..hopefully.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:27 am
El,we have alot of WRs on our roster.i’m sure the staff is planning for what if.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:32 am
8-8 is a dissapointment… This team is on the verge and with this schedule we should be able to make a run for the playoffs. We need to have all of our pieces working because someone with Javons status as an all-pro he is being watched and he could be a cancer and Fuc it all up.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:33 am
Lefty, #90, well said. And #91, a good note on Walker and him wanting to be honest with the team. If Al did talk some sense into him, and if he still can reach his potential, this whole issue will be forgotten by week 5.
All I’m saying is that signs so far point otherwise, and from past experiences, things usually take a turn for the worst. But it is true what you say that no one knows for sure, and we won’t find out for sure until a few games have been played. So let’s hope for the best I guess, Eh?
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:33 am
I think so as well Lefty12 but as always it’s Al’s fault for getting the guy in the fisrt place. These guy’s are never satisfied. Nothing is gauranteed. You make a move and hope for the best.
Even Jerry goes out of way to say that Mr Davis never cares about anyone. Which is a lie and what would make you say something like that when you obviously don’t know. It’s just always an anti Al slant.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:33 am
11680-i also expect at least 8-8,but,i know this sounds crazy,i could see us at 12-4 or 11-5.all things would have to go perfectly,but we have that many games we could win.and since you are fairly new,i’m one of the pessimists on here.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:37 am
If Javon retires and gives back the sighning bonus, do the Raiders still pay the guaranteed portion of the contract or is that a part of it? if we are stuck with oweing him money how is it spread out?
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:39 am
Priest-you know we don’t always agree about our team or Al,but it should never be said Al doesn’t care.i believe at times he over cares for his players-hense the scholarship references.that may be one of his biggest faults,if it’s considered a fault.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:42 am
8-8 for sure, 10-6 maybe, 11-5 pushing it, 12-4?…oh boy. If we get to that, I think we will cause the NFL to put up extra security at home games…lol What would ESPN do?
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:44 am
alright…it’s late. Good night ya’ll… and like always, GO RAIDERS!
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:45 am
El,that’s a good question.but i believe it would be spread out over the life of the contract,any money we did pay him that is.but i don’t think he’ll retire.after the positive way he is being treated it could bring new desire and make him want to produce.let’s hope so anyway.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:48 am
I just got the Bat signal off to finish a keg… Be good Nation!
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:51 am
From what it sounds like, Watkins may be our “Diamond” in the rough.
We’ll see during preseason how he matches up.
Then hit the trap door on Walker.
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:56 am
I am worried anupset about out beloved receiving corps, should I be!
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:59 am
What in the world is Tui doing back is =a SILVER and BLACK” old news…but very scary.
August 3rd, 2008 at 1:56 am
Walker is an emotionally unstable guy with a bum knee and out of shape. Who wouldn’t want to retire under those circumstances?
Al wants him to stay and see if he can come around then Walker can retire before the start of the season if he can’t produce.
Then we’ll just have to go with Carter, Curry, Higgins and Watkins. Maybe Chaz will make it too and be a player for the future.
August 3rd, 2008 at 3:27 am
atleast henry wants to play. yes he is a bad apple but atleast he’ll give a little effort. javon said he doesnt want to play at all. thats not a bad apple but a dead one. all you here is negatives with this guy not just off the field but on the field also. nobody questions henrys play, just his character. but with javon u question him on and off the field. theyre both chance players. now u tell me would u chance 11 mill or a couple thou-wow? when if they both perform ud get pretty much the same result?
August 3rd, 2008 at 3:40 am
so yea with all the baggage walker has rite now id rather take my chances trying to keep henry out of trouble than keeping javon in shape, motivated, out of trouble, mentally stable, and from killing himself. javon got released too not because he had trouble off the field but because the donkeys said he couldnt play.
August 3rd, 2008 at 4:46 am
I think Al Davis is able to motivate almost everything…. if you put him in a morgue and you gave him money to raise the dead, I bet he could… maybe thats why he is still alive himself!?
August 3rd, 2008 at 5:04 am
Its obvious Javon is not right in the head.
How many players can you name who offered to give back a multi million dollar bonus?
Its shows he has some integrity and some morals when he isnt letting down his hair and his guard in Vegas.
I am backing Al on this one.
Walker is going to overcome his issues with the help of teammates and Al.
Look for Walker to have a great year and earn his money
August 3rd, 2008 at 5:19 am
Andrews Mom…
I hope you’re right, I want you to be right =)
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:02 am
Well shyt…its been confirmed huh. Walker wanted to retire. Well it was admirable of him to offer to return the check. Al is a players owner. He has been known to look out for the players and this is no different. Stop the man from making a bad and hasty decision. Once you take yourself out the league its hard to get back in (see Farve).
I suspect they are telling Walker to go through pre-season, so how it goes before absolutely determining you want to retire.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:03 am
Unimpressed with the passing game says one observer with NFL experience …hmmmm ….well thats not a good sign.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:08 am
But at the same time maybe its good news on our pass defense. Lets get to some pre-season games - its just to hard to judge when you’re playing against yourself. (Like the goalline stands …we have one of the best running games in the NFL …just b/c they dominated that session, as expected they should, doesn’t mean the run defense hasn’t improved. I have to see them against another team.)
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:13 am
yeah…I have to agree with you Terrapin. I sit here and read this stuff and almost ALWAYS let the negative things hit me hard, because of all the turmoil over the last years.
We have to remember not to buy in to Murphy’s Law all the time.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:14 am
# lefty 12 Says:
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:01 pm
i read somewhere the other day that if camp ended today,Z.Miller would be the MVP of training camp.it’s funny how different things catch different writers eyes,as Jerry seems really focused on Nnamdi and Hall.
***********************************
And thats the thing Lefty12 - We have been hearing very little of Miller until recently (when posters here, like myself and I remember Huff24 complained about not hearing about the starters enough and people who you can reasonably expect to make the 53). So its just too hard to truly ascertain how everything is going based no tidbits being reported (highlights/lowlights if you will). There’s surely a lot being missed.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:14 am
Let Walker retire, keep Holland, Schillens and Watkins, place Shields on IR, then we’re set for the WRs for a few years. Curry , Carter, and Higgins can be the starters, please Kiffin carry 6 recievers this year, none of the young WRs will clear waivers and we’ll lose some good players to probably teams in our division.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:20 am
Dorsey sprained knee, MRI today. Glad we went with McFadden. Dorsey always injury prone.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:32 am
Henry? Unbelievable. You guys must be outta your damn minds. That’s got to be one of the dumbest SOBs to have been in the league. I mean really - Henry? Get the f” outta here with that bull.
(And then he was a 3rd WR getting glorified b/c Chad and TJ were taking all the attention leaving him to reap some rewards - Unbelievable. Debate Roy Williams or Boldin or someone - not HENRY!)
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:32 am
Dude this WR corp is far from “set”. Just back away from the Kool-aid …please
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:34 am
Yeah any WR’s we cut won’t be picked up
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:37 am
As far as the passing drill goes, this is the first time any of these guys have worked together, and secondly…our receivers suck.
You won’t see any of these guys at the Pro Bowl.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:45 am
dammit, 3 laps to go, and disaster strikes… Man its a cruel world =)
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:21 am
DRAFT DAY! DRAFT MCFADDEN!
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:32 am
Kyle Bush wrecked?
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:42 am
Dakota
DRAFT DAY!!!
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:46 am
Green Bay will have 60,000 on hand tonight to watch the scrimmage. That was before Brett announced he was on his way.
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:49 am
Heres the latest on wlaker
http://raidernationstation.com/raider_nation_station
Seems like NFLN is wrong
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:59 am
necesitamos a watkins
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:59 am
We carry 6
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:17 am
**Jerrys Kids draft**
Your league’s live draft is August 3, 2008 1:00 PM ET.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:33 am
If Javon is talking retirement, he already has.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:37 am
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/02/SP0A12466M.DTL
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:42 am
I brought this up last night,..now my spy in Colorado Springs confirmed it…Walker was sent by Shanahan to ruin the Raiders…not a rumor…its been confirmed…and it will work.,..already has.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:47 am
SacBee…
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/raiders/archives/014292.html#comments_here
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:53 am
Favres been reinstated and is leaving for GB in 90 minutes. PFT.
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:23 am
#135
Thats some good in depth reporting there.
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:28 am
Good morning Nation,
I just had a thought as I was brushing my teeth this morning. It’s more of a silly thought and a never will happen idea, but imagine this, emphasis on IMAGINE, what if Steven Smith from Carolina gets so mad from his 2 game suspension that he asks for his release….and then…well you know what I’m gonna say next so I’m not even gonna say it… have a good day nation. I’m off to church to pray for my family, the poor, this crazy world we are living in today, and of course, the so distant, yet not so unreachable 10-6 season. LAtes…
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:32 am
Someone page me when the draft starts so I can pick last and show everyone how to assemble a top notched fantasy team
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:33 am
26 minutes Andrews mom…
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:33 am
New Green Bay Indoor Practice Facility.
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/07/30/4622/
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:39 am
Assuming this is correct Walker would save money on the cap by retiring, check out what happened when Favre retired.
http://blogs.jsonline.com/packers/archive/2008/03/04/packers-are-swimming-in-salary-cap-room-now.aspx
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:52 am
Problem is Walkers signing and reporting bonus’s are accelerated and would be a disaster on the Raiders Cap figures.
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:56 am
Did terry glen sign with someone? Walker is a head case. Needs to focus. Maybe shanahan was right when he said walker was done.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:03 am
Z. Miller will be our MVP this year. He is our secret for now. Teams will be so intent on slowing our running game that he should have no problems getting open. When you have a great tight end you do without a receiver or 2.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:10 am
Did Eric Parker sign anywhere?
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:31 am
Remember the scene from Full Metal Jacket , where they beat the guy with bars of soap wrapped in towels. If this is true,with Javon, use knives! Cant believe this sh#t!
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Jerry - Thanks for telling it how it is, not how we wish it was. For that, we can always go to Raiders.com and read the stroke pieces that make our O-Line sound like the second coming of the Redskins “hogs”. Don’t sweat all this “negative media” stuff from the rest of the Raider nation that desparately need excrutiatingly slow hand jobs. Keep it real, after the last 6 years, we can take anything they can throw our way
August 3rd, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Hey guys, I think you’re being a little hard on Jerry. It is a blog, not an investigative journalist piece.
Thanks jerry for entertaining reading. BTW: Not all good passing teams are facing two probowl corners and two high price safeties in practice…but of course our QBs are not exactly Peyton and Brady either. Another point is that we will likely put up 2600 yds of ground yardage…as should be noted we are a running team not a timing passing team.
August 3rd, 2008 at 5:51 pm
I like hearing about players taking laps for errors and replacing players that make mistakes. It seems that the Raiders are one of the teams that are hardly ever ready for opening day. This year, the Broncos are coming on opening day and Coach Shannahan always has his team ready for opening day.
Overall, I am impressed by Coach Kiffin. I believe that he is the coach of the Raiders’ future. Last season, he doubled the victories of the previous season. Winning four games may not seem like a big accomplishment, but consider that two of those victories were against divisional rivals. Winning a single divisional game had not been done in years.
The Raiders are bouncing back to form. The defense in quick and the running game is up to snuff. With M. Bush sitting out last season, no one is sure what to expect of him. Look for the Raiders to pound the ball inside and make plays to the outside. Short passes to running backs will produce big plays for them.
This could still be a rebuilding season and the man in charge, Al Davis, should not throw the towel in on Kiffin, regardless of the outcome of the season. If you release him, you risk starting over, again. There has been too many coaches to come and go. It is time to stick with the man and watch the team rise.
The ultimate goal for the Raiders is to win against the divisional rivals. You have to either shut down LT or outscore the Chargers. You have to intercept passes against the Broncos. You have to lock up the Chiefs. Going 3-3 against the division would be nice, but you need to sweep two of those teams if you want to get the big show called “The second season”.
When I look at the Raiders, today, I am reminded of the team that beat the Redskins in the super bowl. A quick defense and a game-breaking running back. Well, maybe even better, with two running backs. The biggest concern is the kicker! He has power, but is not consistent. Hopefully, he takes his job seriously so that the Raiders can actually win the close games.
The Raiders are on the rise.
August 4th, 2008 at 1:43 am
Trust me when I say that we don’t need Chris Henry. This guy is a serious cancer to a team. He won’t change. Oh - wish Farve would go away.
August 4th, 2008 at 8:09 am
the key to me for success is the o line, running or passing won’t mean a thing if the big men up front can’t pass block or run block.the d looks solid especially in the secondary.i expect big hits and lots of picks.
c u all at the raider nation celebration! bring everything raiders to sign people!!!!
August 4th, 2008 at 8:52 am
The sideline obeserver was probably Art Shell. LOL