Four Quick Takes
1. The Raiders released Aaron Brooks today. Therefore, at the moment our offense is in the hands of Andrew Walter and Marques Tuiasosopo. Say we draft a QB with our first pick. Who starts the first game of the season?
2. The Raiders made Jerry Porter’s selection of a new jersey number front page news on their web site today. He is quoted as saying, “For me the new number represents a new start, a new beginning and new attitude.” You have to admit, the whole thing is strange. One minute, the guy’s eating from the proverbial organizational dog bowl. The next minute he’s being celebrated by the team for his new number and new attitude? It's sort of like turning Britney Spears into Christina Aguilera. Nice idea, but I'll believe it when I see it. I still think that a Porter 81 jersey is a risky investment at this point. It’s somewhere between a Moss jersey and a Burgess jersey. For more thoughts on Porter's alleged redemption, check out BlandaRocked's blog.
3. The pro-Norv Turner folks in San Diego say that he’s the one who installed that offense and he’ll fit right in. The anti-Norv folks point to his dismal coaching record and uninspiring demeanor, correctly noting that while he’s a solid coordinator, he’s not a leader. Overlooked is the fact that General Manager A.J. Smith clearly set out to install the antithesis of his nemesis Marty Schottenheimer. Marty is a proven winner and a leader who stood his ground to the bitter end, which is why Smith got him fired after a 14-2 season. Norv is a “yes” man, which is apparently what A.J. Smith covets. This is good news for the Raiders on two fronts. One, a divisional rival has replaced a great coach with a mediocre coach. Two, Norv’s talents as an offensive coordinator are no longer available to our cross-bay rivals.
4. In the latest issue of Sports Illustrated, Adrian Peterson names the Raiders as one of a few teams he'd "like to play for," in addition to the Texans and the Cowboys. He's a Texas native, but says he rooted for the Raiders as a kid. Perhaps he's just making nice in pursuit of #1 pick money, but I suspect he's being honest. I like the idea of someone who wants to play for this team, who understands the legacy and wants to be a part of restoring it. Most mock drafts have him going at #4 to the Browns at this point. Are we going to pick a QB in the first round? Are we going to trade down, and if we do, where should be trade down to, and who should we pursue?
2. The Raiders made Jerry Porter’s selection of a new jersey number front page news on their web site today. He is quoted as saying, “For me the new number represents a new start, a new beginning and new attitude.” You have to admit, the whole thing is strange. One minute, the guy’s eating from the proverbial organizational dog bowl. The next minute he’s being celebrated by the team for his new number and new attitude? It's sort of like turning Britney Spears into Christina Aguilera. Nice idea, but I'll believe it when I see it. I still think that a Porter 81 jersey is a risky investment at this point. It’s somewhere between a Moss jersey and a Burgess jersey. For more thoughts on Porter's alleged redemption, check out BlandaRocked's blog.
3. The pro-Norv Turner folks in San Diego say that he’s the one who installed that offense and he’ll fit right in. The anti-Norv folks point to his dismal coaching record and uninspiring demeanor, correctly noting that while he’s a solid coordinator, he’s not a leader. Overlooked is the fact that General Manager A.J. Smith clearly set out to install the antithesis of his nemesis Marty Schottenheimer. Marty is a proven winner and a leader who stood his ground to the bitter end, which is why Smith got him fired after a 14-2 season. Norv is a “yes” man, which is apparently what A.J. Smith covets. This is good news for the Raiders on two fronts. One, a divisional rival has replaced a great coach with a mediocre coach. Two, Norv’s talents as an offensive coordinator are no longer available to our cross-bay rivals.
4. In the latest issue of Sports Illustrated, Adrian Peterson names the Raiders as one of a few teams he'd "like to play for," in addition to the Texans and the Cowboys. He's a Texas native, but says he rooted for the Raiders as a kid. Perhaps he's just making nice in pursuit of #1 pick money, but I suspect he's being honest. I like the idea of someone who wants to play for this team, who understands the legacy and wants to be a part of restoring it. Most mock drafts have him going at #4 to the Browns at this point. Are we going to pick a QB in the first round? Are we going to trade down, and if we do, where should be trade down to, and who should we pursue?
posted by Raider Take at 12:53 PM
89 Comments:
1. Hello JRuss
2. Since when has Porter been a "team player?" He's stated so many times that he is "onboard with what's going on" but has never shown it on the field. I agree RT, I'll believe it when I see it. I wonder if Tim Brown is yelling, "GIVE ME BACK MY NUMBER!"
3. Norv is a good fit for the Chargers. He will bring them back to their tradition of being the laughing stock of the AFC West. I liked the move.
4. We'd love to have you on our team to Adrian, but it doesn't look like you'll drop to the 2nd round.
I'm on board with JRuss, but starting the first game of the season?
as i've mentioned before - russell is too much of a risk. i think this is all a smokescreen. trading down to #3 with cleveland along with the brown's 1st next year (assuming they win the coin flip this weekend) peterson is my choice with johnson being a second choice. can't go wrong with either of those 2 picks. russell? great ONE game but i wouldn't take a chance.
porter? still think BOTH he AND moss are trade bait.
turnip face? chargers got him? niners lost him? awesome.
I guess there's alot that could happen between now and draft day that will influence the direction the Raiders take on a number of decisions.
The Raiders have been in contact with Houston about David Carr... Good fit...unappreciated Fresno boy comes home to get a fresh start and hopefully a better supporting cast than he had in Houston. Drew Stanton could be available in the 3rd round or pick up a veteran jouneyman for insurance.
1. Let Carr and Walter compete for the opening day start.
I don't know what to think of Porter...I don't trust him...if I had my way his contract would be restructured with a lot of emphasis on performance incentives.
2. Hey Porter!....prove it, talk is cheap
It will be fun to watch and see how the 14-2 Chargers respond to Turner's undisciplined atmosphere...success brings big ego's ...can Turner control them???
3. Good Luck Norv... The bigger they are the harder they fall.
What, if anything, will the Raiders do in free agency to address the running game? Some say Marshawn Lynch is the best all around back (good hands too)in the draft, and he's another hometown boy. If the Raiders trade down he could still be there as late as the middle of the 1st round. Peterseon's durability sure should be considered....he was always hurt at Oklahoma... If he could stay healthy like he did in his freshman year he'd be worth the 1st pick.
4.If the Raiders pull the trigger on a deal for Carr, and Porter is to be believed and trusted ....draft Peterson. Otherwise, trade down and take Lynch in the middle of the 1st round.
Since the Raiders authored the press release regarding Porter, I have to believe that Porter is fully on board. Otherwise he wouldn't sound so positive. I think the basis for that release is they've been having trouble getting a WR coach in view of Moss and Porter. There have not been any direct words from Moss, only hints by Kiffin.
I'm still on board with drafting JRuss. Yeah, there's a risk there, but there is with any first round pick at any position. I think that it's a risk we should take.
I haven't heard specifically that the Raiders have inquired about Carr. I've only heard Texas claim that there has been interest (generally). That statement could be just a matter of attempting to generate interest.
Those who know Kiffin insist that he will go for JRuss. It would be an Al Davis move to inquire about Carr. Will there be friction here between Kiffin and Davis?
Frankly I think that we can pick up a decent RB in the second round. But no matter what, we're going to have to find one veteran QB and expend one draft pick on a rookie QB.
Also, should it turn out that if it turns out that both Moss and Porter are fully on board, and have gone through significant attitude adjustments, we can get by this season on going with only five (possibly even four) WRs. That will free up some money to spend elsewhere. But we still need to solidify the Oline and TE. And don't forget that we also need some defensive line help.
Speculation aside, the "real" events that continue to unfold look extremely positive.
Releasing Brooks is huge in my mind. With Tui all but gone, it means the Raiders plan on drafting a QB as well as picking up a veteran FA. If we draft him, I'd like to see JR start the first game next year because, let's face it, we're in a rebuilding mode and the more snaps he gets the quicker he'll be where he needs to be.
The Porter thing was always between he and Art Shell (maybe Freddie B). I have predicted all along Porter would be back on board, and I still believe that. According to Jerry M, Porter spoke with Tim Brown about the number change and it has been sanctioned by all involved. The Raiders' press release is simply an attempt to get Porter back in the good graces of the Raider Nation.
In SD, Norv Turner is likely to become a successful coach for the 1st time in his career, despite himself. However, nobody beat the Raiders like Smarty, so at least Norv is a step in the right direction. Maybe he'll stop calling those HB option passes that have killed us! LT probably has more career TD passes against the Raiders than Brooks had in his career as a Raiders QB. SAD!
Peterson is probably off our radar unless we trade down. If the Raiders have someone else in mind other than JR at QB, trading down shouldn't just be an option, it should be a mission.
al davis must keep an even keel and pass on russell. QB is NOT as much of a priority as his supporting cast is.
i think carr would be a good fit here. this way we can concentrate on rebuilding the line, picking up a good RB and keep building on that NOT GREAT yet but good defense. heck, i'm worried about peterson's durability too but i'd rather take a chance on his durability and known skills than to wait on a rookie QB. if we were talking about leinart, then there wouldn't be any discussion because that guy was ready to play since day 1. russell is NOT as polished and accomplished as leinart so naturally there is some standing on the sidelines with a clipboard time. who knows for how long? will al davis wait for him? in the meantime, peterson and johnson are tearing it up for other teams!
since the draft picks from the gruden trade were wasted, davis needs to be very careful but most of all be very wise with these '07 picks.
play it safe. trade down, gather more picks for this year AND next. and if the QB still sucks by '08, then go get one WITH his supporting cast already in place. imagine colt brennan handing off to marshawn lynch behind a rebuilt o-line!
BTW - this word verification SUCKS!
it never works the first time. i'm in the computer field and am always careful about my typing. take - is this necessary?
I still think Russell is the pick to take with our number 1. As much as I can see the benefit of trading down to gather more picks and fill the many holes we have, it is (hopefully) rare that you get the number one pick overall and have a chance to take a shot on a franchise QB.
Is it a risk? Absolutely. But as others have pointed out, every draft pick is a risk. I like the fact that Russell has all of the physical skills to make it and also seems to have a good head for the game. Other than the "He's only had one good game" argument, I haven't really heard of any downside to JRuss.
I'm hopeful that the rebirth of Jerry Porter does indeed mean that he wants to stay and play hard. He's show greatness in the past, and I hated to see him ride the pine this last year. Cocky? Yes. Tempermental? Sure. But most good receivers are. The position, at least these days, seems to demand a player that is in constant need of attention and approval.
As for Norv and the Chargers- I'm actually surprised he took the job. I don't see how that is a good situation at all. If he wins next season, people will say that it was because he was using the team that Schottenheimer built. If he has anything less than a great season, people will blame him for ruining a good team. Norv seems like a nice guy, but I think I fall into the camp that believes he is a great OC, but a mediocre HC.
Scorpio, I hear you about the word verification. Unfortunately, without it we get beseiged with "comment spam" from folks trying to sell us Ukranian petroleum stocks and generic Viagra. I know it can be frustrating, I appreciate you and everyone else being patient with it. The alternative is worse (unless you're in the market for generic Viagra, of course).
Penn States LT Levi Brown is really moving up the draft board.
If you see any video of him, he will remind you of Baltimore's Ogden...Not bad.
It would be nice if the Raiders can use Moss to get in position to take Brown.
Keep hope alive.
If Carr comes strolling into Oaktown, it won't be because of a trade. It is a similar situation with Moss. If Moss leaves Oaktown, it won't be because of a trade. Why? Offseason is not the time to be hasty, but patient.
Everyone in the League knows that if nobody takes Moss in a trade, he'll be cut. He has to be cut for cap room. The Raiders won't be able to sign any FA if they keep Moss and Porter on board. They have already made some room by letting go of Brooks. Moss is next, but won't happen until after June 1st, because if they do so before hand, it will cost a lovely $9 million against the cap. After June 1st, it is a little over $4 million against the cap. Green Bay is a possibility for a trade, but who would we get in return, Chaz Woodson? I still think Baltimore would benefit the most with Moss in a trade. Modell just doesn't want to fork over the cash.
Carr's situation in Houston is similar. Everyone in the League (and elsewhere), knows that Kubiak is big on Plummer. Plummer had his best seasons under Kubiak; and they are both courting each other for a second love fest. Carr fits in here because everyone knows that they will cut him if they sign Plummer, so they are waiting for that signing to see what they do with Carr. That's the only "interest" in Carr at this point. It was the same with Leftwich too, but he's staying in Jax.
I think we keep the 1st overall pick. We should trade our 2nd pick, for another first rounder. I'm still beating my drum for Moss and the 2nd pick, to B-more for Mike Anderson, and their 1st Rounder.
Hello, football. The dead period is over. Here you go, RT:
1. Jamarcus is a bad man
2. JP #81? I believe he's with the program. Time will tell
3. Snorv? Who cares?
4. AP--love ya, but RBs are cheap. We can get Bush or Booker in RD 2, both remind me of Joseph Addai and he turned out OK
1. JRuss or bust.
Scorpio you say he’s only had one good game. Let’s examine those facts. His first year playing was 2004. He had a 127 QB rating, not bad for a first year QB. Granted he only threw 144 times, he threw for 9 td’s and 4 int’s. Certainly not great. 2005, he more than doubled his attempts from 04, 311. QB rating 136, 15 td’s 9 int’s. Again not great, but a definite improvement over the first year, and a 10-2 record in the SEC is damn good. Now let’s look at last year, 344 attempts, a 167 QB rating, 28 td’s and 8 int’s, he won 11 games and lost only 2. He had four games with 3 td’s and 0 int’s. That is significant improvement each year in arguably the best division in college football.
Is he a sure thing? No. But for a football team that has become the door mat of the NFL since 2002, we need a good gamble now. If he does pan out to be a franchise QB for the next 15 years I want it to be for the Raiders. We cannot wait until next year. Hopefully this is the last time we pick first and Kiff can bring us back to respectability this year.
2. I’m willing to give Porter another chance. He was willing to play last year, he came to camp in tremendous shape it was Shell who had no relationship management skills. Plus we have no choice, we can’t get rid of all of our “talent” in one year. We only have so many draft picks.
3. Way to go Chargers! Keep Marty as far away from the Raiders as possible.
4. Peterson’s good, but as I said, JRuss or bust!
Roy
P.S. Word verification sucks, generic Viagra on the other hand...
I think I would prefer the Raiders to keep the #1 pick, but they probably will trade it. If they do get a QB with #1 (that being J-Marc) I think Walter starts the season.
For those who are rooting for Walter to be the #1 QB...
"Kiffin also said the Raiders are "excited'' about Walter and think he'll be a "very good quarterback.'' The team also is going to look at free agent quarterbacks, since Marques Tuiasosopo isn't expected to re-sign."
Kiffin saw Walter play in college, and he's obviously reviewed the tapes from last season (prompting his combine statement that players will be changing position).
Still, you never know. Very much of what you hear from any spokesperson from any team around the time of the combine is positioning strategically for trades and draft. You can't trust too much of it.
Word verification sucks! But I'm not in the market for viagra.
Adding to my previous comment, I'd point out that much of the negatives you hear about JRuss you can't really trust either. Teams that want him, who draft further down, try to spread negative stuff in an attempt to make him still on the board when they pick.
1. Who starts the 1st game of the season: JRuss or Matt Schaub
2. JP: Did the Raiders PR Dept. help write the script for JP? Regardless, actions will speak louder than words.
3. Norvell: good OC, bad HC
4. Draftees wanting to play for Raiders: MLynch is not only a true Raider fan, he is a better fit since he is a much better receiver than AP.
There are better FA QB's out there than Matt Schaub, say like Jeff Garcia. I'll place money that Kiff makes a huge run at him, if he hasn't already. He will start the season, with Walter and JRuss battling for the #2 and #3 respectively.
Calico:
You think Schaub is coming to Oaktown? What makes you think so? I hear more about Leftwich and Carr.
Regarding the quote from Kiffin I posted above: "he'll be a very good quaterback." The more I think about that quote, the more I think it is "damning with faint praise." "Very good" is your average NFL starter. The Raiders need a franchise QB.
Carr= stiff [this from a guy who wanted him last year; but he's had too many chances with too much receiving talent around him]
Leftwich= slow stiff
Schaub= staying in the ATL. Even if he leaves, he's not coming here--he's too young for Raiders to still draft Russell-If Rsiders sign an FA QB to keep the seat warm for Jamarcus it'll be an old guy like Garcia. Hope they just roll with Russell...
From the Yikes! department:
PFT is reporting the hot rumor at the combine is Moss to Jags for aforementioned 'slow stiff' and possibly a pick or two. Hope not.
They also report JaMarcus came in fat
INDIANAPOLIS - New Raiders coach Lane Kiffin has yet to meet Randy Moss in person, but he said his phone conversations with the temperamental receiver have gone well.
"He hasn't been in town yet so we haven't gotten to meet face to face," Kiffin said Thursday from the NFL scouting combine. "But Randy was very positive and we're excited about Randy. He's a great player and we think can fit into our system very well."
Randy was "very positive and excited" when he spoke on the phone with Shell last year too. So, like Porter; he has to prove it now. I still think he is not a Raider at the beginning of the season, but just my opinion.
I like Carr better than Leftwich. Carr hasn't had much help on the protection front in Houston either. My only concern with him is his lack of ability to read defenses. I mean, he had -5 yards passing in their win against us. That says alot!
Leftwich has similarities to Brooks, though he does make better decisions. My beef is he is injury prone to be reliable.
Garcia is the best out there right now. He proved he could win in SF and Philly. He is guts, he makes good plays and decisions, is mobile in the pocket, and has a strong arm. Very similar to a young Gannon, at least to me.
Just my thoughts.
I'm anxious for the season to begin, and the draft hasn't even happened.
The rumor mill has Jax pursuing a trade with Oakland for Randy Moss. Supposedly Mike Tice is the one pushing this.
Does anyone have any info?
Please, please let this materialize.
Del Rio announced Leftwich will be the starter in upcoming season.
BR: To answer your question, I have no clue. A few things are clear to me in regards to our QB depth chart.
#1 We need to draft a QB
#2 We need to sign a veteran QB
I like JRuss as a unique & gifted prospect... a true franchise QB.
I view Schaub as a possibility because (a) we have extra draft choices and the #1 pick in each round (b) the Knapp/Cable ATL connection.
In other words, if Knapp/Cable lobby hard for Schaub, it would be worth exploring.
Based on whether we sign a FA QB or trade for a vet QB prior to the draft will dictate what QB we draft and vice-versa. There are 2 plausible scenarios;
#1 Trade for/Sign a vet QB who would more than likely be the opening day starter plus draft a QB in the 2nd/3rd round to be developed
#2 Sign a vet QB who would mentor JRuss/Walter with a chance to start
These would be 4 possible depth charts to consider:
#1 JRuss/Walter/Rattay
Rattay would be a cheap, vet to mentor JRuss; JRuss likely to start on opening day
#2 Schaub/Walter/Stanton (2nd rd)
Schaub as the opening day starter with Walter/Stanton being developed
#3 Carr/Walter/Kolb (2nd/3rd rd)
Carr the starter, Walter competing for #1, and Kolb developed
#4 Garcia/JRuss/Walter
Garcia starter in yr. 1, JRuss in yr. 2, Walter future #2 back-up
How long will all of you pout if they don't draft russell?
I'll crawl into the fetal position for about five minutes, after which I'll be over it. Same as last year with Matt Leinart.
i won't pout. won't exactly do handsprings either if we get russell. this guy would be a project sitting on the bench for a few months counting his gauranteed $30 mil (or more). now lk mentions he came in FAT? if this is true, then he's not taking this too seriously.
From football's future: Russell will sit, Peterson and Lynch will perform. The bad news, JaMarcus Russell announced he won't perform any drills this weekend at the combine.
The good news, Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch will perform all combine drills including the 40-yard dash. Both players said they expect to run in the 4.3-4.4 range.
i'm hoping for peterson or johnson. at the very least, lynch or bush. and another 1st rounder once we trade down. there are higher priorities than QB right now. it even sounds like kiffin might give walter his shot after all. bring in a vet and our QB situation has been resolved - for now.
all i want is for davis to be smart about this pick. if he was smart, not just smart but WISE, what we do in this draft and FA will set us up for the immediate future.
play it safe, play it conservatively in the draft and free agency, keep building on that defense and we'll go places.
i also read that there might be some position changes. bing just might be put in his natural spot at SS and Huff might move to FS. sounds GREAT to me!
History has a way of repeating itself for those who refuse to learn from it. I've been a Raider fan long enough to learn that "conventional wisdom" means nothing on Draft day when the Raiders are "on the clock". I've actually learned over the years to enjoy the surprise.
Luke Petitgout...sign his ass
RT, you say Big Norv T. is a yes man, (just what big al (MR.) davis always demands in his head coaches) and you think he is no good (now) because he aint a faida anymore....I say Big Norv T. will KICK thie faidas ass twice this year and that you will be making excuses as to why "miss kiffy" was a bust in "07". Print and save this, I would put money on it! BIG MONEY, you guys only know faidas, faidas, faidas. There are REAL teams to support in the NFL, and most of them posted more than 2 wins! The amazing Karnak has spoken. Just defend the "nation" baby. 0-16 is doable, just watch. jruss, what a laugh.
Next year's QB? I think Carr. I would not be excited but I remember Carr in the game two years ago and thought he was ok with a bit of movement to set up throws, etc.
But we are talking about the Texans against a bad Raider team. In a westcoast O he might be serviceable. Plus I don't see AD willing to pay what #1 QB draft pick will command.
Porter is OK with me. Just Win, Baby. Who cares if he wears #84, #81, #8 or #1. There is a certain hypocrisy at times. We all hated Romonowski until he came to Oaktown and kicked ass. Especially his old team's. Porter can play. Give him the chance.
We lived through Bugel, White (I thought him as the worst), and Shell II. Norvall might prove to be the worst HC in history and the most over-rated OC of all time. Let's not forget the 4 running plays on the one vs. the giants....
Trade down to load up. Take the tackle from WI and Lynch - I think Peterson might be fragile.
More importantly, where's Panty Raider?
Last I heard from Panty Raider, he was sailing the south Asian seas (literally). I think (hope!) we'll hear from him when he comes to port.
Panty Raider is in Thailand living the good life.
Here's a word from Vic Carucci at the combine about JaMarcus Russell:
http://nfl.com/combine/story/10017857
So! It turns out Annofaider is Dolt fan! I'll pause for our collective chuckle regarding his sunny expectations for Norv.
Well, that took longer than I thought. Good luck, Annofaider.
My preference regarding the QB situation - Garcia/JRuss/Walter. With Garcia in camp, I think that Kiffin would give Walter the chance to compete against Garcia for the starting position this year. That way, even if Walter couldn't win the job over Garcia, he'd get the audition time under a better offense, increasing his trade value for next year.
Take One: If we draft at quarterback, we'll probably start some stiff veteran we pick up during the free agent period. It'll be someone competent but unspectacular whom we can cast aside when Russell is ready.
Take Two: I share your skepticism.
Take Three: True enough, and it may bode well for the future. But San Diego still goes into the offseason with fewer holes than we have, so don't get too happy too fast.
Take Four: I'd say it's very likely we'll go with a QB in the first round. We're down to one QB as it is, and Andrew Walter is not the sort of guy you bypass a potential franchise QB to support. (Yes, Walter could develop, but he could also continue to stink. And let's not forget that he was a draft pick from two coaches ago. Ask Tui how that story ends.) Also, for all the talk of trading down, I don't see this as the kind of draft where it'll be all that easy to find a partner for a trade-down from the top spot. If I'm in the three or four spot looking up, I may be sad if someone grabs Russell or Peterson, but I can still draft Quinn or Marshawn Lynch and consider myself lucky. Adrian Peterson looks like a good prospect, and we might end up going that way, but I really do see us spending our first round money on a QB this time. I was shocked we didn't last year, our need for a QB hasn't diminished this year, and both Russell and Quinn have qualities that the Raiders like in their signal-callers.
To those who want to sign Luke Petitgout. The Raiders passed him up in the 1999 draft and picked Matt Stinkcomb instead.
Petitgout went to the Giants with the next pick. That's not to say we shouldn't sign him, just that, we could have had him already.
JS is back! Great takes, as usual.
I'll say this about Quinn, he's demonstrating preparedness and desire with his offseason program and comments of late.
Bama7
I don't think we can pass on Russell. Look at the incredible comments being made about this guy from scouts and coaches. I've never heard such praise and shock at a prospect's size and skills. How can we possibly pass on that when we have no leader at QB. This guy is a very rare prospect and we get first choice!
I just don't see it with Walter. Never have.
Can we dump Moss and use that money to sign Adalius Thomas? Can Thomas play Sam William's spot?
What an unbelievable LB group we'd have... even if Thomas is a 3-4 guy.
Here's what I hope are the position changes Kiffen alluded to:
1. Schweigert and Huff switch. Huff is a FS. And if Schweigert didn't pan out at SS maybe Bing could get a shot if the LB rotation is too crowded.
2. Grant Irons to DE.
3. Bing to SS
RT:
I'm on board with JRuss, but starting the first game of the season?
Didn't seem to hurt the careers of Elway or Peyton Manning much.
And I'm not sure we need to draft Russell number one AND pick up a premier FA QB next year. That seems to me putting too many eggs in one basket cap-wise. I wouldn't mind picking up a bottom-tier FA QB to replace Tui as number three... maybe Shawn King?
Too many people thinking they should be the starting QB spells trouble in my mind... and that is what would happen with Walter, Russell, and Carr/Garcia/Schaub/Huard all competing for the same spot.
1. Schweigert and Huff switch. Huff is a FS. And if Schweigert didn't pan out at SS maybe Bing could get a shot if the LB rotation is too crowded.
I've been saying this for a year. I don't see why Schweigert keeps his FS job when all he does is tackle. He has no intuition as far as where a passing play is going, and that is not something that can be taught... you either have it or you don't. What Schweigert does is REACT instead of anticipate... thus his high number of tackles. He's always there right after the play has been made.
Time to see if Huff can do better.
From Blandarocks cite (I think):
"When new Minnesota Vikings vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman watched Russell put his hand around a regulation NFL ball, he said it looked as if the former LSU star was gripping "my kid's Nerf football.""
Well, here's one difference between him and Culpepper... they say the reason he has fumble problems is his small hands.
Falcons DE Patrick Kerney has voided his contract and become a free agent.
Would anyone else like to see Kerney in silver & black ? I sure would.
RT-
I agree on your Quinn take. His hard work, more importantly willingness to put in the hard work, says something. His interviews also seem to indicate he is a good kid.
I am not advocating taking Quinn vs Russell but being successful in the NFL, no, leading your team as their franchise QB takes more than being physical.
The "wait until his pro day" does not cut it with me. Can you turn your motivation to be great on and off with a switch?
I am a little dissapointed Russell did not take this more seriously.
Raider 00 - I would love to see Kerney in silver & black. I would also like to see Marisa Miller undress in front of me. Both are merely fantasies. We can't afford to use our cap space on Kerney. We will need all of our available cap space to sign our 1st round pick and perhaps a veteran Free Agent O-lineman. Also, DE is not a big priority. Burgess and Kelly should be a good pair of bookend plus Huntley provides some depth at DE.
Bottom Line: Kerney would be a luxury not a necessity. All (or most) of our resources need to go to fixing our anemic O.
Bama7
I like Kearney, but Calico seems to understand the financial end better. What exactly is it that has us worried about the cap? or better said, who is eating up cap space? I don't see ANYONE on the team that is a must keep. Some pretty good players... Morrison, Howard, the CB's... that's about it. We should be able to go out and sign some big names. I like Kearney and Adalius Thomas. Dump Moss, Jordan, Simms and anything else to free up cash.
I love Russell with our 1st pick... is anyone else scared shitless now that Calvin Johnson ran so fast at the combine? I hope Al's not sitting there all viagra'd up over the speed! Please just say no to speed, Al.
Brady Quinn won't be performing until his pro day, either. Nor will Calvin Johnson, Ted Ginn, Jr., and possibly Dwayne Jarrett. People forget about all that game tape the scouts look at.
raider00
Thank you for the Petitgout history lesson, I actually didn't know that. Living a few miles from the Meadowlands and Giants stadium, I have seen him be a solid linemen for the Giants for years. I just like the idea of signing him because he would bring veteran experience, reliability, and would be another step towards a decent O-Line.
Also, Kerney opposite Burgess would have me thinking 25-30 sacks a year from those two alone. Tempting.
And since everyone else is stating their choice anyway, let's get JRuss. And start him now.
Marisa Miller . . . mmmmmmmmm . . . damn, forgot what I was gonna post!
Of interest is what Tom Martinez says about Russell at the combine. It's likely the same thing that Martinez told Kiffin when Kiffin interviewed Martinez for QB coach.
"I know who I'd take," Martinez said. "A JaMarcus does not come along very often. There have been a lot of Brady Quinns."
From everything I've seen, I agree. Reading up on some of the history of JRus, I believe that the concerns over his level of maturity and his "work ethic" are just talk. We're talking about a guy who volunteered to pitch in in NOLA after Katrina, and opened up his house to 20 people displaced by the flood. We're talking about a guy who immediatedly went to one of the best QB coaches in the country to prepare for the draft.
Folks talk about JRus coming into the combine fat? I saw the pictures. A little softness around the middle, yes, but certainly not fat. As of right now, I think that the Raiders WILL pull the trigger on JRus, and it will prove to be one of the best decisions they've ever made. In fact, at some point we might be saying, "Thank you, Art Shell for not drafting Leinart and for a 2-14 season, putting us in position to ink JRus!"
Miller? After the awards last night, I've fallen in love with Cate Blanchett all over again.
Calico,
I am no capologist. I just know that some team is going to find a way to sign Kerney, so why not the Raiders ?
Do we have more pressing needs ? sure do, but I'd rather sign a top notch DE instead of a mediocre OL (the crop is thin this yr).
As for Miss Miller, there is always room on the Raiderette squad.
Some discussion about talking to/getting Garcia on other non media sites. FYI.
There’s been a lot of talk (recently conveyed by Anthony Carroll) about Sims making his way back to left tackle. I’ve often criticized Sims when he played LT, however, Gallery has managed to make Sims more than viable for his replacement.
One thought I would add to what AC has already published: Unlike his underclassman which were probably left confused by teachings and misdirections of the now-departing 2006 coaching staff, Sims is a veteran who can sift through the good and bad of recent teachings and perhaps come away with the best and most useful ideas to suit his own abilities. In the end, he could very well turn out to be the crafty veteran LT we need right now.
Of course, all the information in the world can’t overcome talent. We’ll have to see where that leaves Sims but, regardless, he seems to represent an upgrade over Gallery.
There are another 2 reports circulating. 1. The Raiders and Pack are talking about a trade for Moss. Again, who do the Pack have to offer? I would accept a vet and a 2nd round pick. Or Moss for their 1st overall pick. If the Raiders would pull that off, who do they pick? Imagine, the first overall pick is JRuss. Then, with the 16th overall pick, the Raiders select: Marshawn Lynch (who fell a little at the combine), Dwayne Jarrett, Chris Henry, or a defensive player? Then who do we get in the 2nd Round?
The second "rumor" floating around is the Bills are listening to "trade talks" for Willis McGahee. Would he fit with the Raiders? That would be interesting.
Here are my top 10 Free Agents I think are realistic signings, that I would like to see us pick:
1. Jeff Garcia QB-Eagles
2. Hank Fraley C-Browns
3. Robaire Smith DT-Titans
4. Chad Slaughter OT-Raiders
5. Ron Dayne RB-Texans
6. Marcellus Wiley DE-Jaguars
7. Ruben Brown OG-Bears
8. Todd Fordham OT-Panthers
9. Eric Johnson TE-49ers
10. Anthony Clement OT-Jets
What's with all this love for Jeff Garcia? Does everyone forget the two awful years witht he lions and the browns? Garcia is a system quarterback. He had a good year with the eagles, but lets not forget so did AJ Feeley when McNabb when down a few years ago. Please, get off the Garcia bandwagon. He's not worth it. Stay away....far away!
wtdavid: you're joking right? Think about what you wrote... Does everyone forget the two awful years (Garcia spent) with the lions and the browns?"
You'd gage Garcia's talent on the two years he spent with the lions and browns instead of his years with the niners and eagles?
Apparently, you didn't watch any eagles' games last year. Garcia is a "gamer" and he's younger than Gannon when we picked him up.
I think the Raiders best chance of winner now (rather than later) is with Garcia. He can scramble, he doesn't force mistakes and seems accurate on intermediate and long throws.
Personally, I don't understand the fascination with David Carr. Didn't he throw for minus 5 yards against us?
And Matt Shaub has proved nothing in the NFL.
Hey RC,
With Kiffin at the reigns, I can see him putting Bing at his natural position, and giving Schweigy the back up roll.
If anybody knows Bing's talent, i.e., strengths and weaknesses, it's Kiffin.
I struggle to understood some of the Raiders so-called player projects and changing positions, particularly when it seems obvious, as in Bing's case. Hopefully, Coach Kiffin puts this back into proper perspective for Bing and some of the other "projects".
Huff is more of a FS, and all but one of our TE's are really WR's. We need another "natural" TE and someone like Bing to step up into run support from SS.
Check out this view of Moss from others around the league:
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=571398
While Davis seeks a 1st round draft choice for Moss, I think he should be prepared to accept a personally autographed jersey from Brett Favre.
nyraider:
And according to our record, we're not much better then either the lions or browns. Heck, Garcia was playing under Mooch's system in Detroit and could not get it done. I never really thought Garcia was that good when he was witht he niners either. Just in a good situation, with good talent around him. If I remember correctly his last year in san fran wasn't that good. As for last year with he eagles, it was the system that helped him. My god, AJ Feeley led the them to the playoffs the first year McNabb whet down. AJ Feeley!!! The fins that he could be they're qb and gave up a 2nd round pick for him. How did that turn out?
What can I say? I'm just not impressed with Garcia and don't think he's worth picking up.
As for the Moss to GB thing, LET'S GET IT DONE!!! Take whatever they will give! We have decent enough recievers and can likely get another quality one in the 2nd or 3rd round.
The newest hot rumor? Profootball is saying there's a deal in the works for GB to send us Arron Rogers for Moss.
Good trade, unless it causes Al and/or Kiffin to pass on Russell. Also, if we did draft Russell, this gives us no experienced QB. I'd be interested in seeing the starting spot being thrown up for grabs between Russell, Walter and Rogers. That could be entertaining, but not that productive.
BR,
I don't agree that Moss for Rogers is a good trade.
All we know about Rogers so far, is that he slid all the way down the first round, and has been kept in mothballs waiting for Favre to retire.
Also, to me it's dubious when a team is willing to trade a young Qb.
They watch him practice, they know him best, and they are going to be needing a Qb next year.
I really prefer signing Jeff Garcia. Yes he performs best in a good system, surrounded by good players. What Qb doesn't ???
I'm hoping that's what the Raiders are intending to do. To have a good system, and surround their Qb with good players.
Garcia over Rogers is an easy call for me.
I don't want Rodgers, gimme a draft pick so we can pick up more of what we need seeing as we will pick Russell #1 and can get someone else with playing experience to fill out the QB position.
russell AND a free agent QB? won't happen. too much money going to the QB position. sorry russell fans, i'm gonna go out on a limb and predict that davis WILL NOT pick russell!
if he didn't pick a decorated and pro ready QB like leinart in last years draft, theres no way he's gonna wait on this guy if he ever is serious about playing in the NFL.
kiffin said the player they pick will contribute immediately! that means (hopefully) no possible long term projects at QB. trade down, get a veteran QB via trade and settle on a safe and immediate contributer pick like johnson (remember - al loves speed demons) or peterson. russell as #1 may or may not work out. let someone else worry about his development, maturity but most of all his weight! we've already wasted high picks on tui (2nd) and walter (3rd). well, not yet walter but my point is QB is NOT a priority right now. just think - if this kid doesn't work out that 30 MILLION WASTED. 30 MIL!!!!! this'll jack us up for YEARS!
next, get whatever you can for moss and or porter and continue to make smart choices in the draft and free agency.
btw - WHY the heck is barry sims still on this team? he was a turnstyle before he switched positions and he will continue to be one. he must go!
Interesting views on free agency by Adam Schefter:
http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/10028966
Scorpio: “QB is not a priority...” ? Evidence to the contrary. We only have one QB on the roster after FA starts, and he failed miserably in his 2006 audition (albeit, he had no help).
Money is obviously and issue, but if we draft Russell and sign Garcia to a short-term deal like we did last year with Brooks, it might work (need a little cap magic... like dumping Moss).
I like Russell, but I have no problem with the Raiders trading down for more draft picks. IMO picking Calvin Johnson is a luxury we should not exercise; and if we do, he still needs someone to throw him the ball. Ergo, QB is a priority.
BTW, if Sims was a turnstile, what was Gallery? We just don’t have any options at LT.
Some things I'd like to see.
1. Sign Garcia to a two year contract.
2. Trade Moss for a draft pick.
3. Draft Russell.
4. Trade back up to the first round for an RB.
5. Use the remaining picks for FB, TE, and OL.
6. Address improving the DL with free agency.
To me, Russell is our future. From what I've been reading, and I've been reading a lot, the negatives coming out about Russell are BS. They are designed to scare the Raiders off.
If the Raiders go in another direction, I'll be on board, but I sincerely believe that Russell is our best bet.
I think missing here is the talk of exactly which system Garcia was running at Philadelphia.
The OC at Philadelphia was Marty Morhinweg, the guy who ran San Francisco's offense when Mooch was coach. Although Andy Reid normally called plays, when Garcia took the reigns, he handed the playbook to Morhinweg.
So, it wasn't just a good system. It was the exact same system that Garcia had had any success with his entire career.
For that reason, we gotta stay far away from him. It'd be just like the Lions & Browns if he came to Oakland.
NY - true gallery IS a turnstyle, but why go backwards even further? the only reason sims is going back there is because he has experience. he always had trouble with the elite pass rushers. i doubt he'll make the final roster.
i just don't believe that with all of al davis' "wisdom" that they would risk so much on russell. get an experienced free agent QB via trade and that'll settle the QB issue FOR NOW. no matter who the qb is, he'll spend more time on his back anyway and we're not going anywhere anytime soon so get the pieces together for his supporting cast. the "PRIORITY" is NOT a QB when we don't even have any semblence of an O-line. THAT is the true priority. a stud running back will take immense pressure off the QB. so there are many ways around the QB issue. his supporting cast should first be in place.
remember there are no reggie bush type impact players in this years draft. i was so against vince young last year and comparing young to russell (if they were in the same draft), i'd gladly take young over russell any day!
and true johnson is a luxury BUT dude can catch and he can surely fly!
scorpio said, "remember there are no reggie bush type impact players in this years draft."
not at rb at least. That is why I think we should go after a vet RB for cheap. Jamaal Lewis would be nice, but like Garcia, a potentially large cap hit. Ron Dayne would be awesome.
The reason I say this is because the potential at RB in the next draft. I've said it before Darren McFadden-Arkansas is going to be a stud (my early pick for Heissman). There are a few others too. The only RB I'd truly consider in this draft is Michael Bush and Adrian Peterson; but both are coming off injury.
Whoa! I couldn't help but notice that Lamont Jordan has been removed from the depth chart on the Raiders' web page. Is something happening here? Are the Raiders about to free up some more space under the cap? Anybody hear any rumors as to who the Raiders might be talking to?
That's because the depth chart is still from last year. If you look at the "Team" page, he's listed on Injured Reserve. They remove the players from the depth chart if they are on IR.
I don't think we want Dayne [sloooow to the hole] or any FA RB this year. Better prospects in the draft
Dayne maybe slow to the hole, but he'll square his shoulders and run you over, like he did our defense last year. He's better than Jordan too. He is consistent at rushing for 100+ yards, Jordan is consistent with landing on the IR. I'd take Dayne (a cheap acquisition) to help improve the running game; which to me was the second biggest void on our offense (the first being the lack of an o-line).
Bama7
Scorpio you say that last year you were so against taking Vince Young. This pretty much kills your argument against taking Russell. You were wrong about Young. Those of us that wanted Young last year look back now and realize he WAS the real deal.
One scribe recently wrote that the time to draft a QB high is when you're bringing in a new coach and new system, so they can grow together. That's us now. Russell has improved every year at LSU. What was it, 22 TDs and 8 picks last year? And in the moment of truth, with the hype surrounding him vs. Quinn, he basically waxed the guy on national TV. He's been working with one of the best QB trainers around and has been attending QB camps all his life. He can throw the ball 80 yards. It's a no brainer. And if Al pulls the trigger and he ends up a bust, well screw it because MOST EVERYONE THOUGHT HE WAS AN UNBELIEVABLE TALENT.
I'm just scared because of how fast Johnson ran at the combine. He was so smart. HIs agent must have said... look Oakland has first pick and Davis loves speed... roll the dice and run. And the guy kicked ass. BUT WE DO NOT NEED A WR.
And as for the Rodgers BS for Moss... screw that. How many Cal QB's have to flop in the nfl before everyone realizes that those QB's in that system are not as good as they seem (even makes me question how good Lynch really is). Plus I agree with the other opinions here that Green Bay has been looking at Rodgers for quite awhile and they're ready to deal him when their starter is playing probably his last season???? says it all. They're clearly not impressed with the guy.
Take Russell. Dump Moss for no less than a first rounder, or else he stays and cathes 80 yarders from Russell.
There are two SEC backs that are pretty good that can probably be had in a later round: Darby of ALabama and Ware of Georgia. Tough runners that would be great complimentary backs.
Lastly, Stabler has a new talk show here in Birmingham and I called in a few days ago. Snake thinks Russell is solid. And remember he's from Snake's area... LA. That's Lower Alabama. Snake's from Foley near Gulf Shores and Russell is from Nearby Mobile. We all know how well we did last time we had a Bama native at QB.
This years draft presents a golden opportunity to get a LT.
Usually, there is only one blue chip Lt per draft, but this yr, there is Joe Thomas, & Levi Brown.
Some even believe Brown is the better of the two.
Thomas is projected to go in the top five, while Brown is slated for the top twelve.
I realize that just because a player is graded high for the draft, it doesn't mean they will pan out in the pro's(see Robert Gallery).
I know that Gallery has fallen on his face, and his sides, ans his back, but that can't mean we should give up trying to find the next great LT.
Scorpio is correct when he points out that Sims is not much of an upgrade over Gallery.
Obviously, we cannot take the LT with our no. one pick, so it would be nice if the Raiders can find a way back in the top twelve, and grab Mr. Brown.
The waiver wire has become a free-for-all. Add Joey Porter and Joe Horn to the already growing list of vets being dumped due to bonus and salary cap issues. Guys like Horn will make it difficult to deal Moss.
Bama
yeah i admit i might have been semi-wrong about that one based on the potential young showed in the 2nd half of last season. that said, sure he got R.O.Y. but how do we really know young will continue on and be a superstar franchise player? the jury is still out on him so i'm not completely wrong just yet. it's WAY too early to know.
but that was NOT my point. of the big 3 QB's last year, the most NFL ready was leinart, then cutler, then young. young was even more ready than russell at the same stage of their careers. if these 2 were in the same draft, i would take young over russell. HELL, i'll take QUINN over russell in this draft!!!!! THAT'S my point. i don't think his head is in it to be honest. he can spin it as best as he could to be that first pick but $30 mil GAURANTEED is a lot of $ to throw at a guy who just might be the fattest QB ever to suit up! i wouldn't want my multi-million dollar player, the face of MY franchise to be caught dead at krispy kreme. if it were my cash (and part of it is by the way) i'd want someone who is truly a dedicated student the game.
look - if davis does pick russell and i don't think he will, then i hope in 2 or 3 years (because that's how long we're gonna be waitin' on him) that i'm wrong and he does go on to be a superstar.
where a guy is from has absolutely NOTHING to do with his success on the field. it's all about skills and maturity. this is not a good year to have the very first pick!
but bama - i am with you on the rogers deal. no way green bay!
scorpio said, "$30 mil GAURANTEED is a lot of $ to throw at a guy who just might be the fattest QB ever to suit up!"
SEE: Giant's second stringer Jared Lorenzen...the "Round Mound of Touchdown"
Also, I don't particularly like Dayne, but mixing him up with Fargas could suit us as a poor man's version of Garner and Wheatley. This would, of course, just be temporary before we can get a top flight guy, possibly next year.
whoa! that's big. and that's my point exactly franco. if russell is the pick, will he show the dedication, the determination to be worthy of a first overall pick? or will he be an overpaid jared lorenzen?
trade down. stockpile more picks for this year and next.
RN 75-
I think Jordan was noticeably slower to the hole last year also. I think there's a reason Fargas did best behind our line--he could get to and thru a small space quickly and he could get to the corner. Dayne might be able to truck somebody in space, but how often does he get there, and how often would he get there behind the Raiders line? He also does not catch the ball well [and neither do Jordan and Fargas--we really need a back that can catch check downs and convert third and 5s and shrink second and longs]. I think there will be better options in Rds 2 and 3--Bush, Booker, Irons. Booker has the best hands of the three and I would be looking for him with our Rd 2 pick
Scorpio- google "JaMarcus Russell and red clay" and you'll read alot about his determination
In the news...
They signed restricted free agent defensive tackle Tommy Kelly to a one-year, $1.35 million contract. That gives the Raiders all 11 starters from last season's defense under contract entering next season. Free agency began at 9 p.m. Thursday.
The Raiders also have approached running back LaMont Jordan about restructuring a contract that calls for him to receive a $4.75 million roster bonus Wednesday and counts $7.15 million against the cap this season.
A person close to the negotiations said Jordan isn't sure if he wants to restructure. If not, that increases the likelihood of the Raiders releasing him and turning over the starting job to Justin Fargas or a player they add through the draft or free agency. But the Raiders have yet to tell Jordan whether they would let him out of his contract if he refuses to restructure.
Scorpio said, "young was even more ready than russell at the same stage of their careers."
I respectfully disagree with this statement for one reason. Young played in the Big 12, and Russell played in the SEC. The SEC is the Conference that is most NFL ready today. They have the toughest conference in college football because all their programs are built on speed, pressure, talent, and mental toughness. The fight to get to their Conference Championship games have always comes down to the last game on the schedule. The only team consistently making the Conference Championship games has been LSU. The players making the most impact in the NFL over the past decade or so, have come out of the SEC. No conference has had more teams in the Top 25 than the SEC since '02(BCS-5 this past season, 5 in '05, AP-4 in '04, 5 in '03, and 6 in '02), compared to the Big 10 (BCS-4 in '06, 3 in '05, AP Poll-3 in '04, 4 in '03, and 4 in'02), the Big 12 (BCS-3 in '06, 3 in '05, AP-2 in '04, 3 in '03, and 4 in '02), and the Pac 10 (BCS-4 in '06, 3 in '05, AP-3 in '04, 2 in '03, and 2 in '02).
I guarantee, if in these years there was a playoff system, the SEC would have a champion every year. So I disagree that Young was/is more NFL ready than Russell at this point in their respective careers. Young has a lot of drive to win, which is why he did well, but he has a lot of learning to do in regards to the playbook, and not forcing plays. Russell has had discipline at LSU in the playbook, creating plays, has learned not to force things, has better abilities at the QB position than Young did, was in the toughest conference of college football, and continually excelled each year.
I do however agree that Dayne may not be the best FA RB, but he is cheap, and effective at his price. I think we could afford him, I think we would still have room to draft Michael Bush in the 2nd round (or if we trade up from the 2nd round). I say we trade Moss and our 2nd Round to Green Bay, straight up for their 1st Round. Just my opinion.
Jake Plummer retires. Echoes of Kerry Collins flirting with retirement and dragging his feet before joining the Titans. At least Jeff Garcia has competitive fire and a true desire to play football to the bitter end. The Raiders were duped in 2005 and the Broncos were duped in 2006 by guys who, it turns out, could take or leave the sport.
It reminds me of Rick Reilly's post-Super Bowl column (I can't stand the guy, but I read him anyway, and occasionlly he has something worth reading). He asked Grossman why he fumbled the snaps and Grossman replied that the web ball was difficult to handle. He then asked Peyton Manning how he was able to handle every snap, and Manning revealed that ever few weeks he soaks a bunch of footballs in a tub and has his center snap the wet balls to him, even though he plays in a dome at least half of the time.
Sometimes desire can be measured.
Garcia to sign with Raiders. I don't know how reliable this is but check it out.
http://www.raiderfans.net/forum/showthread.php?t=96847
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