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2011 Oakland Raiders In-Season Thread (3 Viewers)

kaso said:
The fact that we haven't franchised Miller makes me think we got a long term contract in the works.
When is the deadline to have the tag placed on him?
Feb. 24th, I think.They may just wait till the last minute, as they like to do in so many things.
Makes sense that they would be working with him then. With the Seymour signing it shows that Oakland is willing to sign their players without waiting for the CBA issue to be closed off.
 
We tag Wimbley and extend Stanford. Not sure I like this deals. Seems like a whole lot of money for both players.
I agree. The money involved is surprising for both deals.
It is hard to say really... considering we have no real idea on how the CBA will make things work out. I do think it is a good assumption that there will be more spending room but I would much rather see us tie up Aso, Miller, and Gallery than Wimbley and Stanford. I am reserving my reaction and trying to shelve my displeasure until I see how we end up with ALL the free agents we have but it does make me very uneasy.
 
Raiders re-signed Henderson 2 years $8 million today also.
I hope he can stay healthy. I thought he really helped out on run defense, but a guy his size with foot injuries scares me. I assume Oakland's medical staff has already considered all of this though.
 
Raiders deals include no signing bonuses

By JOSH DUBOW - AP Sports Writer

2011-02-28 19:05

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) - While the Oakland Raiders have handed out some big contracts already to keep potential free agents off the open market, they won't have to start paying out on those deals until after there's a resolution to the league's labor dispute.

The Raiders have made more than $80 million in commitments to five of their players, but none of those deals include signing bonuses that need to be paid before any games are played.

``When you're signing these players to contracts the way we signed them, these contracts are all for the future,'' senior executive John Herrera said Monday. ``These guys will have to come in and play and earn their money before they get paid. The Raiders have not paid out a dime at this point in time.''

The Raiders have been one of the most aggressive teams so far this offseason as most clubs wait until a new collective bargaining agreement is reached before making moves. The current CBA expires Thursday.

Oakland gave cornerback Stanford Routt a $31.5 million, three-year deal; handed defensive tackle Richard Seymour a $30 million, two-year contract with $22.5 million in guarantees; placed a $10.1 million franchise tag on linebacker Kamerion Wimbley; signed defensive tackle John Henderson to an $8 million, two-year deal and signed special teams standout and backup running back Rock Cartwright to an undisclosed contract.

``What we did is protect our football team,'' Herrera said. ``These are moves that protect our franchise and protect our team and put us in a position to move on.''

Herrera equated the move to keep Seymour as Oakland's ``first-round pick'' this year since the Raiders sent that selection to New England before the 2009 season to acquire Seymour. He has already played two seasons in Oakland, making the Pro Bowl last year as the Raiders finished 8-8 for the first non-losing season since 2002.

Seymour made a big impact on the field, as well as in the locker room where a mostly young team viewed him as a strong leader with the experience of having won three Super Bowl titles with the Patriots.

``In my opinion, he was the heartbeat of our defense as far as high level of performance he demands from everybody on the field,'' Routt said. ``He's definitely someone you don't want to disappoint or let down because he came from New England where he won three titles. You don't want him to have any harsh feelings about no longer being in New England.''

The Raiders tried to keep Wimbley for much less money by exercising a $3.5 million buyback option that would have given him about $4.1 million next season. But the NFL ruled that contract was invalid so the Raiders used the franchise tag instead to keep the player who led the team in sacks last season.

Oakland views Routt as a potential number one cornerback after he had his best season in six years as a pro last year, putting up some of the best numbers in the league in terms of shutting down opposing receivers.
 
According this this site: <a href="http://www.sbreport.net/oakland-raiders-roster" target="_blank">SB Report</a> The Raiders FA's are as follows:

QB

Kyle Boller

Charlie Frye

Bruce Gradkowski

J.T. O'Sullivan

RB

Michael Bennett

Michael Bush

Rock Cartwright Re-signed

WR

Johnnie Lee Higgins

TE

Zach Miller

Oline

Khalif Barnes

Robert Gallery Unlikely to come back with latest salary demands

Mario Henderson

Daniel Loper

Samson Satele

Langston Walker

WR

John Henderson

Jarvis Moss

Richard Seymour Re-signed

LB

Ricky Brown

Thomas Howard

Sam Williams

Kamerion Wimbley Re-signed

Jon Condo

CB

Nnamdi Asomugha

Stanford Routt Re-signed

S

Hiram Eugene

Michael Huff
Lets take a moment to play a game of What If while we wait (hopefully only another week) for a new CBA.Now that we know some of the players the Raiders have as free agents, who the Raiders have re-signed, and who has become available as teams release players. Who are the next group of guys to sign?

Yes, I'm aware of the current CBA issues, but lets ingore them for the moment and turn the conversation back to football. And yes, the real CBA will play a role in how players are signed to what terms and what kind of money. But that doesn't matter. Teams will always find a way to work within the limits of what is allowed.

So... Miller next? He has to be the next highest priority right?

Do the Raiders make a move at one of the FA WRs who were recently released, or go after a tendered WR? James Jones, MSW, and Sidney Rice come to mind.

Do they may a move to replace Gallery?

Do they go after another CB to replace Asomugha? (I'm running with the assumption he will not be back with the Raiders - even with Rod Woodson on the coaching staff.)

 
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According this this site: <a href="http://www.sbreport.net/oakland-raiders-roster" target="_blank">SB Report</a> The Raiders FA's are as follows:

QB

Kyle Boller

Charlie Frye

Bruce Gradkowski

J.T. O'Sullivan

RB

Michael Bennett

Michael Bush

Rock Cartwright Re-signed

WR

Johnnie Lee Higgins

TE

Zach Miller

Oline

Khalif Barnes

Robert Gallery Unlikely to come back with latest salary demands

Mario Henderson

Daniel Loper

Samson Satele

Langston Walker

WR

John Henderson

Jarvis Moss

Richard Seymour Re-signed

LB

Ricky Brown

Thomas Howard

Sam Williams

Kamerion Wimbley Re-signed

Jon Condo

CB

Nnamdi Asomugha

Stanford Routt Re-signed

S

Hiram Eugene

Michael Huff
Lets take a moment to play a game of What If while we wait (hopefully only another week) for a new CBA.Now that we know some of the players the Raiders have as free agents, who the Raiders have re-signed, and who has become available as teams release players. Who are the next group of guys to sign?

Yes, I'm aware of the current CBA issues, but lets ingore them for the moment and turn the conversation back to football. And yes, the real CBA will play a role in how players are signed to what terms and what kind of money. But that doesn't matter. Teams will always find a way to work within the limits of what is allowed.

So... Miller next? He has to be the next highest priority right?

Do the Raiders make a move at one of the FA WRs who were recently released, or go after a tendered WR? James Jones, MSW, and Sidney Rice come to mind.

Do they may a move to replace Gallery?

Do they go after another CB to replace Asomugha? (I'm running with the assumption he will not be back with the Raiders - even with Rod Woodson on the coaching staff.)
I think Zack Miller and Michael Bush will be at the top of their list to re-sign. After that I don't know what Al is thinking. He is too hard to predict.
 
Raiders big-spending visionaries?

While many NFL executives shook their heads at the moves that the Oakland Raiders made the last two weeks -- it's hard to sell players that changes need to be made in the Collective Bargaining Agreement when one team is doling out $80 million -- there is an important detail being overlooked.

The Raiders haven't spent a dime. In signing five potential free agents to contracts before the CBA expires today, Oakland didn't include one signing bonus that required a check being cut before a game is played.

"I'd like to see more teams follow the lead of the Oakland Raiders," agent Drew Rosenhaus said. He thinks owners will regret not being as aggressive as Oakland owner Al Davis if they, as expected, lock out players.

"There are some real problems for teams," Rosenhaus said. "It's not just the players and the union. The owners need to be concerned, too. They've invested a tremendous amount of money in the players that they have under contract. There's no way for them to get better. They can't sign guys. They can't make trades. They're limited during the draft. They can only trade picks.

"They can't work their guys out. Their coaches can't talk to their players."

And while some may argue whether or not linebacker Kamerion Wimbley's nine sacks are really worth the $11.3 million franchise tag that he signed on Monday, the Raiders chose not to wait for the CBA. Oakland improved to 8-8 last season after seven straight years with 11 or more losses, and Davis credited the players and not since-fired coach Tom Cable.

Besides Wimbley, the Raiders gave cornerback Stanford Routt a $31.5 million, three-year deal, defensive tackle Richard Seymour a $30 million, two-year contract and defensive tackle John Henderson an $8 million, two-year deal. Oakland also signed backup running back Rock Cartwright, a special teams standout, to an undisclosed contract -- ditto backup receiver Nick Miller on Tuesday.

"That just shows Al's mentality," Routt told the Associated Press. "He's always been an aggressive-minded individual. He wants what he wants. He doesn't want to waste any time or wait on the CBA or all the possible unknowns or uncertainties to work themselves out. If you want to keep something, you might as well take care of it when in front of you rather than take a chance."
 
Raiders finally give defensive coordinator title to Chuck Bresnahan

By Jerry McDonald

Oakland Tribune

Posted: 03/07/2011 06:12:21 PM PST

Updated: 03/07/2011 06:12:24 PM PST

By Jerry McDonald

jmcdonald@bayareanewsgroup.com

The Raiders named Chuck Bresnahan has their defensive coordinator Friday, more than a month after he returned to Oakland as a "defensive coach" without a specific designation.

Bresnahan replaces John Marshall, whose contract was not renewed following the season, and may possibly have completed the staff of head coach Hue Jackson.

The Raiders have not hired a quarterbacks coach, but Jackson said at the NFL scouting combine it was conceivable there wouldn't be a need for one since he and offensive coordinator Al Saunders would be spending plenty of time with the quarterbacks.

Jackson said in a statement issued by the team that seeing Bresnahan work for the past month helped with the decision.

"The fact that I've had the chance to be in defensive meetings with Chuck and watch him lead the defensive staff made it an easy decision to name him our defensive coordinator," Jackson said. "I am impressed with his passion, attention to detail, and energy. This staff gives us the opportunity to have one of the best defenses in the NFL."

The Raiders previously added former Raider and Hall of Famer Rod Woodson to the staff to coach cornerbacks and elevated Greg Biekert from a defensive assistant to linebackers coach. Bresnahan and Jackson worked on the same staff with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he worked as defensive coordinator

from 2006 through 2008.

The Raiders won three division championships from 2000 through 2002 with Bresnahan as defensive coordinator. He was fired along with much of Bill Callahan's staff following a 4-12 season. He coached the Raiders defensive backs in 1998-99.

"This is an incredible opportunity for me to come back to the Raiders and work again where we had so many great years," Bresnahan said in a statement. "It's so exciting to be reunited with Hue Jackson because of the passion and energy he brings. I'm also thrilled to be a part of this talented staff, many of whom I've shared a previous success with."
 
It'll be interesting to see what changes new Raiders D coordinator Chuck Bresnahan will bring to this team. Here's a look at what he'll have to work with:

The Cornerbacks

Nnamdi Asomugha 6-2, 210 lb

The 8 yr vet could be the hottest FA thanks to a suspicious under performance clause. Oakland knew full well no one throws at Nnamdi and by playing Al Davis bizzaro ball Nnamdi rarely shadows teams X receiver like everyone else. Instead, like Charles Woodson before him, Nnamdi dutifully locks down and effectively takes away an entire side of the field. It’s not glamorous; it’s not filled with big plays, but its effective and a cornerstone of Oakland’s defensive scheme. Stranger things have happened and it’s always difficult to surmise what Mr. Davis will do but we're thinking there’s no way Al lets one of his greatest finds and key fixtures simply slip away.

CB Stanford Routt 6-1, 195 lb

Routt had his best year in 2010 and it earned him a massive pay raise. One that may have more to do with big Al flipping the finger to the League he never forgave and effectively warping other teams contract negotiations. Routt's never had a breakout year and it’s always suspect when a 6th yr guy suddenly plays better in a contract season. Does Routt deserve the money? Every Sunday when we see him give up a touchdown drive in the 3rd by drawing yellow and giving up a deep ball, we'd swear no, but his stats puzzlingly say otherwise. He better be golden in 2011. Especially if Nnamdi walks.

CB Chris Johnson 6-1, 200 lb

Johnson looked like he might have another good year in camp but a hammy and other dings kept him on the bench and under 100% the lion’s share of the season. He'll be back in 2011 and if he can stay healthy could turn heads again.

Walter McFadden 5-10, 180 lb

His make-up burst, play making ability and cover skills make McFadden one to watch as the Raiders try to polish this diamond in the rough. "Wheezy" as he's known by Moms, has quite the bloodline considering his brother Bryant plays for the Cardinals and his cousin, LSU's Patrick Peterson is head and shoulders the best CB prospect in this year’s draft. McFadden struggled to play catch-up after a hamstring injury in pre season stunted his growth. It couldn't have come at a worse time, since McFadden saw very little field time early on at talent laden Auburn. Six interceptions his senior year and a 101 yd pick six in the Outback Bowl saw Al Davis pull the trigger on WMC despite his less than Raider size. A sub 4.4 40 yd dash sealed the deal. If he can progress like they think he can, WMC could be a valuable Nickel corner for years to come. Just don't ask him to run support much.

CB Jeremy Ware 5-10, 185 lb

Ware showed flashes including a timely end zone pick in one of Oakland’s two wins over San Diego but fell out of favor for whatever reason and disappeared from significant game time even with Asomugha out with an ankle injury for several games. With a changing of the guard at the Coaching level, including Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, it will be interesting to see where Ware stands especially if Oakland selects a CB high in this Aprils draft.

The Safeties

FS Hiram Eugene 6-2, 200 lb

In 5 seasons has yet to win a starting slot on what was a pretty wide open competition. Contributes on special teams and is a decent fill in.

FS Michael Huff 6-1 205 lb

Also a 5 yr vet, Huff posted career numbers and finally seems to be settling into the difficult single high safety slot only the Raiders seem to covet. It remains to be seen if Huff's banner year was motivated only by his contract year status. We'll see how that plays out soon enough.

SS Tyvon Branch 6-0, 205 lb

Branch had a solid year posting 104 tackles, 4 sacks, a forced fumble and a pick but his lack of coverage and constant bite on play fakes cost Oakland points, momentum and games in 2010.

SS Mike Mitchell 6-1, 220 lb

Rumor had it Mitchell was to be released by Coach Cable last year and over ridden by upstairs. The former 2nd round shock pick may or may not have come close to oblivion but his performance and propensity for violence against people wearing uniforms of a different color will make Raider fans happy for years to come.

S Stevie Brown 5-11, 215

He should do nothing but benefit from the presence of HOFer Rod Woodson. Brown has the instincts and ball hawking skills the Raider secondary has been missing all these long years. He also contributed on special teams and as a 7th round pick last year, comes at a more than reasonable price.

The Linebackers

MLB Rolando McClain 6-3, 255 lbs

His rookie year wasn't a Pro Bowl caliber world beater but it was good enough to improve Oakland’s offense and prove its more Davis' scheme than the players playing it. Still, McClain posted 85 tackles, half a sack an interception and more than several highlight reel beat downs the likes of which haven’t been seen in Oakland since...good gawd we can't remember when. In fact, we're of a mind if McClain had played against Jacksonville (the one game he missed out right last year) Oakland might've been 9-7 and gone to the play offs. He didn't completely solve the long runs Oakland’s traditionally gouged for (again, that’s likely Davis' fault) but Jason Campbell and the offense showed that THEY are the Oakland defenses best weapon. If they can keep McClain and co, fresh in the 4th and give them a lead to protect you will see Oakland in the play offs in the very near future.

SLB Kamerion Wimbley 6-4, 255 lbs

Wimbley recently became a double digit millionaire thanks to Al Davis and a 58 tackle, 9 sack season. In all honesty Wimbley tends to disappear off the radar too often but he was slowed with a few dings at times. This was his rep in Cleveland who selected him 13th overall back in 2006. Despite worries he may struggle to cover more agile backs and tight ends out in pattern, Wimbley silenced critics in 2010 by showing good speed and coverage skills. A lot of his sacks came in garbage time or against teams that were already blown out, so it will be interesting to see if Wimbley regresses in 2011, or if he has found a home in Silver and Black and can finally start living up to that lofty draft status and huge pay check.

WLB Quentin Groves 6-3 265 lbs

With Wimbley at Strong Side Linebacker Oakland wanted a replacement for freshly demoted LB Thomas Howard on the Weak Side. They chose yet another stalled out high draft pick in Quentin Groves. Taken 52nd overall in the 2nd round of the 2008 draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars the former Auburn pass rush specialist languished in Jacksonville and was traded to the Raiders for a 5th round pick in the 2010 draft. Groves struggled early on and also had a nagging injury that slowed him but he looked a step behind and out of sorts too often early on then around the mid way point Groves suddenly seemed to start getting it, shooting gaps in the run game, disrupting plays, making tackles and even posting an impressive safety. If Groves and Wimbley can pick up where they left off last season and continue to grow Oakland may have one of the most impressive starting Linebacking corps in the League.

MLB Ricky Brown 6-2, 235 lbs

Brown's one start last season was against Jacksonville, the League’s leading rushing team. Rookie Roland McClain was out with a foot injury and it cost the Raiders not only the game but possibly a Wild Card berth. Brown's got tenure and understands the game but he's a throw back to when footballs finest TEs ruled the AFC West. So is our next subject.

WLB Thomas Howard 6-3, 240 lbs

Howard and former D Captain Kirk Morrison were Oakland’s answer to a Division stocked with Pro Bowl caliber tight ends. Sort of. After years of poor run defense, blown assignments and horrible audibles, Oakland ditched Morrison who now plays for Jacksonville. Howard took a step backward and was demoted to back up and Special Teams play, but never faltered. He may or may not be back for the 2011 season.

LB Sam Williams 6-5, 260 lbs

Many feel Williams is a Davis favorite which would explain how a guy can play in the League 8 seasons and never be good or healthy enough to vie for a starting slot. Williams contributes occasionally on Special Teams but is costly when he sees field time. If Al Davis is still alive when they select Oakland’s 53 for 2011, Williams will probably be on the squad.

LB Travis Goethel 6-2, 240 lbs

Again, not exactly the H/W/S at the Linebacking position Oakland seems to be reaching for right now but Goethel impressed Raider coaches enough in OTAs and camp in 2010 to keep him on the roster despite back surgery that cost him most of the season. At the college level Goethel made up for a lack of size and speed with great reads and better coverage. During his limited game action in the back half of 2010 he looked out of place and step behind in coverage which is kind of to be expected with the injury rehab and first exposure to NFL speed but he started making plays against the run that show his potential.

LB Bruce Davis II 6-3, 250 lbs

He is a legacy whose father played for Oakland. Brought on as depth part way through last season to contribute on Special Teams mostly, he drew a few flags and not much else. May be one of those guys Oakland dumps and resigns back and forth for the practice squad.

LB? Quentin Scott 6-3, 220 lbs

He was signed by the Bears as a rookie UDFA, and then signed on to Oakland’s practice squad on September 23rd. He's listed as a Linebacker but was a Safety at Northern Iowa, a Safety with ball hawking skills and great instincts.

So as the Raiders name former Cincinnati, former Raider D coordinator Chuck Bresnahan new Raider D coordinator again, he'll restart his tenure with some pretty good pieces in place as far as the Linebacking corps goes but after the starting 3 there are definitely questions about depth.

Wouldn't be surprised to see Oakland add a LB prospect in the draft.

 
According to the SB Report The Raiders FA's are as follows:

QB

Kyle Boller Re-signed

Charlie Frye

Bruce Gradkowski Not Tendered (?)

J.T. O'Sullivan

RB

Michael Bennett Re-signed

Michael Bush 1st and 3rd Round Tender

Rock Cartwright Re-signed

WR

Johnnie Lee Higgins

TE

Zach Miller 1st and 3rd Round Tender

Oline

Khalif Barnes

Robert Gallery Unlikely to come back with latest salary demands

Mario Henderson

Daniel Loper Re-signed

Samson Satele

Langston Walker

WR

John Henderson Re-signed

Jarvis Moss

Richard Seymour Re-signed

LB

Ricky Brown 2nd round tender

Thomas Howard

Sam Williams

Kamerion Wimbley Re-signed

Jon Condo 2nd Round Tender

CB

Nnamdi Asomugha

Stanford Routt Re-signed

S

Hiram Eugene Re-signed

Michael Huff
Figured I'd update the list with what we know...
 
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'Raiderfan32904 said:
It'll be interesting to see what changes new Raiders D coordinator Chuck Bresnahan will bring to this team.
I can answer this: Zero changes. My guess is Marshall was let go partly for blitzing too much. Certainly wasn't like he wasn't producing. Defense played its best since the Super Bowl years. Jerry MacDonald has a quick write up on Bres, and breaks down the Radiers D, as it has been for years. 4-3 Cover-1, meaning the FS is deep, alone. So we get a FS with an impossible task, and a SS that plays the run. That's why Tyvon is such a tackle monster, and why our free safeties always get blasted by the fans. They are essentially asked to back up every CB deep, and then turn around and make one-on-one tackles with no one within 125 yards of him to back him up. That Huff was able to have a good year is amazing, and he will probably go somewhere else and be a great cover safety. With the simplicity of the scheme, it is essential that the Raiders have better players at defensive linemen. Strong DL makes the back 7 look so much better, freeing up LB to make tackles, and giving the CBs less time to have to cover WRs. It's no coincidence that the defense played best when Houston and Shaugnessy emerged, Henderson was clogging lanes, and Seymour was drawing double teams. You can have 4 Nnamdi's back there, but no one can cover a WR for 5-8 seconds every play.
 
Raiders' QB plan is taking shape

By Bill Williamson

I wanted to dig deeper into Oakland’s decision to give Kyle Boller a one-year deal.

Boller is reportedly going to be paid $1.25 million for this season. I think it is clear the team plans for Boller to be the backup quarterback, or at least the primary veteran behind starter Jason Campbell. I wouldn’t be surprised if Oakland drafts a quarterback to be either the backup or No. 3 as a rookie.

It’s starting to be clear that Boller has a better chance to stick around Oakland than Bruce Gradkowski or Charlie Frye. Gradkowski was not given a contract tender, making him an unrestricted free agent. Frye is also unrestricted. By giving Boller the one-year deal, it shows that Oakland made him the priority, at least for now, over the other backup quarterbacks.

Sure, Gradkowski and Frye could be re-signed, and they could all go to camp and compete like last year. But I know new Oakland head coach Hue Jackson likes Boller, and he was instrumental in bringing him to the Raiders. Boller played under Jackson in Baltimore in 2008.

I think Oakland likes the idea of having Boller back up Campbell. First, Boller has experience if he needs to play. He has started 46 games since being the Ravens’ No. 1 pick in 2003. He played sparingly in Oakland in 2010. This is also important: Boller won’t be looked to as a threat to Campbell.

Campbell performed better last season after Gradkowski was lost for the season with an injury. It seemed like Campbell was tight when Gradkowski, who replaced Campbell on a few occasions, was waiting in the wings. Oakland owner Al Davis and Jackson have both said this offseason they truly believe Campbell is the right man for the job. Thus, a Campbell-Boller pairing appears to be in the works.
 
Gutierrez: Rundown of Raiders' remaining free agents

GUTIERREZ ARCHIVE

RAIDERS PAGE | RAIDERS VIDEO

Paul Gutierrez

CSNCalifornia.com

Obviously, the Raiders were one of, if not the busiest team in the NFL in the days, hours and minutes leading up to Thursday’s deadline in advance of the Collective Bargaining Agreement expiring (and before extensions were granted).

Daily now, reports leak out of what Oakland did to “protect” its franchise with a flurry of roster moves, though the team has not announced or confirmed a majority of them.

Tuesday morning, the National Football Post reported the Raiders had re-signed offensive lineman Daniel Loper (two years, $3.9 million) and running back Michael Bennett (one year, $865,000). Later, the Oakland Tribune reported the Raiders had slapped a second-round tender on backup middle linebacker Ricky Brown and re-signed quarterback Kyle Boller (one year, $1.25 million) and free safety Hiram Eugene (four years, $10.25 million).

That means 18 of the Raiders’ 31 expiring contracts are accounted for, and starts to bring into focus a clearer picture of the Raiders’ thoughts on a new CBA and what it will mean to free agency. Reading between the lines, and taking into account the signings and tenders issued, it appears as though Oakland believes unrestricted free agency will begin after four seasons, rather than the six accrued years of service it took last year.

It also starts to put into focus a potential offensive line. How about LT Jared Veldheer, LG Daniel Loper, C Samson Satele, RG Bruce Campbell, RT Mario Henderson, with a drafted OG/C (Penn State’s Stefen Wisniewski?) working his way into the lineup? What about Langston Walker and Khalif Barnes on the right side, or former Jets RT Damien Woody, cut by New York last week?

It also shows either how A) little the Raiders thought of Gallery at left guard in offering him $2.5 million, or B) how high they are on Loper by offering him slightly less per season.

Plus, the money earmarked for Eugene and the lack of a contract or even rumors of interest for Huff, who has been Tweeting about his love of Texas of late, seemingly means Eugene could be the new starting free safety.

In any event, a look at the Raiders’ expiring contacts and where they purportedly stand at the moment…

PLAYERS WITH SIX-OR-MORE YEARS SERVICE TIME

CB Nnamdi Asomugha – Will be unrestricted free agent upon agreement of a new CBA with his contract voiding by his not meeting certain playing incentives.

OL Khalif Barnes – Unknown. Locker room cutup and pass-catching threat who could presumably challenge for starting right tackle position.

RB Michael Bennett – Re-signed as insurance to one-year, $865,000 deal.

QB Kyle Boller – Re-signed to one-year, $1.25-million deal to back up Jason Campbell.

RB Rock Cartwright – Re-signed to undisclosed contract.

QB Charlie Frye – Unknown. But seems to be on coaching path.

LG Robert Gallery – He gone, to quote baseball’s Hawk Harrelson. Said it was a mutual decision; Raiders say he wanted $8 million, were offering $2.5 million.

DT John Henderson – Re-signed to two-year, $8-million deal.

OL Daniel Loper – Re-signed to two-year, $3.9-million deal.

QB J.T. O’Sullivan – Unknown. The Pride of UC Davis is probably too long in the tooth to be considered a project for the Raiders’ future.

CB Stanford Routt – Re-signed to three-year, $31.5-million deal.

DT Richard Seymour – Re-signed to two-year, $30-million deal.

OL Langston Walker – Unknown. But he is a favorite of owner Al Davis so not hard to imagine him coming back to challenge for his job at right tackle.

LB Sam Williams – Unknown. But he is another favorite of Davis who would gladly come back at, really, any price.

PLAYERS WITH FIVE YEARS SERVICE

LB Ricky Brown – Slapped with a second-round tender.

LS Jon Condo – Slapped with a second-round tender.

FS Hiram Eugene – Re-signed to four-year, $10.25-million deal.

QB Bruce Gradkowski – Not offered a tender or a contract, seemingly signaling an end to his time in Oakland.

LB Thomas Howard – Unknown. Though hard to imagine the proud one-time starter returning.

FS Michael Huff – Unknown. Still, the second-team All-Pro wants to return but thinks he’ll be allowed to test the free agency waters.

LB Kamerion Wimbley – Slapped with franchise tag worth whopping $11.3 million after NFL did not allow Raiders to use $3.5-million buyback option on him.

PLAYERS WITH FOUR YEARS SERVICE TIME

RB Michael Bush – Slapped with first- and third-round tenders.

OT Mario Henderson – Unknown. Another favorite of Davis who presumably could challenge for starting right tackle gig.

WR Johnnie Lee Higgins – Unknown. As his punt return qualities have diminished, his expendability has grown.

TE Zach Miller – Slapped with first- and third-round tenders.

DE Jarvis Moss – Unknown. But impressed coaches after being picked up off Denver’s curb late in the season.

C Samson Satele – Slapped with an original-round tender, second round.

PLAYERS WITH THREE YEARS-OR-LESS SERVICE TIME

DT Desmond Bryant – Unknown. Still, Davis likes the undrafted Ivy Leaguer. A lot.

LB Bruce Davis – Unknown. The Raiders legacy – his father Bruce Sr. has a pair of Super Bowl rings with the Raiders – added special teams depth.

WR Nick Miller – Re-signed to undisclosed deal. Undrafted punt returner is seen by many as a poor man’s Wes Welker.

FB Marcel Reece – Unknown. Yes, the undrafted converted receiver is another player on the owner’s radar.
 


Changing of the Guard: Oakland Raider G Gallery Replaced by Bruce Campbell

By

RaiderusMax

(Correspondent) on March 9, 2011 - Oakland

KANSAS CITY, MO - SEPTEMBER 20: Robert Gallery #76 of the Oakland Raiders walks off the field during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on September 20, 2009 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) OG Robert Gallery

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

G Robert Gallery (6' 7", 325 lbs) has made it clear that he will part ways with the Oakland Raiders. Since the release of former head coach Tom Cable, Gallery has been at odds with the organization.

Losing Robert Gallery, however, will not hurt the Oakland Raiders. In fact, they may actually prosper by picking up a guard in the NFL draft or through free agency.

Gallery was drafted in 2004. As the second overall pick in the NFL draft, Gallery signed a seven-year contract with the Oakland Raiders. From the start it appeared that Gallery would be a bust as he was often burned by the defense and the QB was hurried or sacked.

While Gallery has improved, his asking price is much higher than what he should be paid. Recently, Gallery had been seeking $8 million from the Oakland Raiders. Al Davis didn't bother to look into his check book as he and the Silver and Black were thinking $2.5 million, which is about Gallery's worth.

It appears that rookie Bruce Campbell will take over for Robert Gallery. Campbell was selected in the fourth round of the 2010 Draft by the Oakland Raiders (106th pick overall). He looks solid, and should do well in the running game.

Campbell will surprise a lot of fans. Weighing in around 315 lbs, the 6' 6" lineman is a beast, and when moving forward he can help set the run tone for RB Darren McFadden.

On special teams last season, Campbell took on multiple speedy defenders and opened holes in space. He is also quick to set the edge. During his tenure at Maryland, he did a great job jamming opponents with heavy hands and was quick to reset when pass rushers attempted to slap his hands away.

The Oakland Raiders could possibly pick up another OL from the NFL draft this year or pick up a veteran that has proven talent. It's very unfortunate that many first rounders are handed huge amounts of money, only to be a bust at the professional levels (a.k.a. JaMarcus Russell). Yet, there are some stellar players in the draft, so it will be exciting to see who the Raiders pick up next.

As for veterans, Logan Mankins would have been perfect for the task, however the New England Patriots franchised him earlier this season. Mankins wanted a huge contract and it wasn't likely Al Davis would go after him.

It appears that the Raiders are working to keep a lot of last season's players. The team was on the verge of a playoff run, however there were issues at QB and that may have hindered their efforts last season.

Many players have been resigned (Richard Seymour, Kamerion Wimbley, Tyvon Branch, Stanford Routt, etc.). On the rookie side, Mike Mitchell, Rolando McClain and Jacoby Ford are budding superstars and their futures are looking extremely bright in Oakland, California.

Of course there is also the Asomugha free agency issue. In all likelihood, Al Davis will pay to keep the best in Oakland.

The Oakland Raiders have made some extreme decisions, yet every one of them seems correct thus far. This team should have no problem taking the AFC West Championship. The focus in Oakland will have to be defeating teams such as the New England Patriots. That's a game this writer will definitely be attending.

Go Raiders, and welcome Bruce Campbell to the starting lineup!
 
Minor news but some news nevertheless:

Raiders get compensatory pick at No. 240

By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer

Friday, March 25th, 2011 at 7:19 pm in Oakland Raiders.

The 240th pick in the this year’s NFL draft is unlikely to change the fortunes of the Raiders, but it adds a seventh pick to their stash this year for a fringe player or something to add in a trade if they want to move up.

Oakland was one of three teams awarded a sole compensatory pick because, in the words of an NFL release, “even though they did not suffer a net loss of compensatory free agents last year. Under the formula, the compensatory free agents lost by these clubs was ranked higher than the ones they signed (by a specified point differential based upon salary and performance).

And if you’ve figured that out, leave a comment and explain it to us.

The Raiders are scheduled to have picks in the second (No. 48 overall), third (No. 81), fourth (No. 113), fifth (No. 148), sixth (No. 181), and seventh (No. 218) in addition to No. 240.

(Clarification: The Raiders cannot trade the compensatory pick, but having it makes it easier to deal No. 218)

So what are we talking about at No. 240 or below overall?

Some recent and distant history of Raiders you may have heard of (Drafts were shortened to seven rounds in 1992):

2010_S Stevie Brown (seventh round, No. 251 overall)

2007_WR Jonathan Holland (seventh round, No. 254 overall)

2004_TE Courtney Anderson (seventh round, No. 245 overall)

1991_TE Andrew Glover (10th round, No. 274 overall)

1982_WR Mervyn Fernandez (10th round, No. 277 overall)

1981_FB Frank Hawkins (10th round, No. 276 overall)

1979_OT Bruce Davis (11th round, No. 294 overall)

1979_NT Reggie Kinlaw (12th round, No. 320 overall)

1977_LB Rod Martin (12th round, No. 317 overall)

1971_DE Horace Jones (12th round, No. 305 overall)

1968_FB Marv Hubbard (11th round, No. 277 overall)
 
This is a dang tough schedule.

Wk Date Matchup Time (ET) Time (PST)

1 Mon. Sep. 12 at Broncos 10:15 PM 7:15 PM

2 Sun. Sep. 18 at Bills 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

3 Sun. Sep. 25 vs. Jets 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

4 Sun. Oct. 02 vs. Patriots 4:15 PM 1:15 PM

5 Sun. Oct. 09 at Texans 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

6 Sun. Oct. 16 vs. Browns 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

7 Sun. Oct. 23 vs. Chiefs 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

8 BYE

9 Sun. Nov. 06 vs. Broncos 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

10 Thu. Nov. 10 at Chargers 8:20 PM 5:20 PM

11 Sun. Nov. 20 at Vikings 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

12 Sun. Nov. 27 vs. Bears 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

13 Sun. Dec. 04 at Dolphins 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

14 Sun. Dec. 11 at Packers 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

15 Sun. Dec. 18 vs. Lions 4:05 PM 1:05 PM

16 Sat. Dec. 24 at Chiefs 1:00 PM 10:00 AM

17 Sun. Jan. 01 vs. Chargers 4:15 PM 1:15 PM

 
I don't think so. I see three games I pencil in as losses-Jets, Pats, Packers. The rest, I don't see a significantly better team anywhere. And I even question how good the Jets will be.

Obviously, we aren't going undefeated in the division again, but seems like we did good. Week 8 bye, all seems pretty good to me.

 
I don't think so. I see three games I pencil in as losses-Jets, Pats, Packers. The rest, I don't see a significantly better team anywhere. And I even question how good the Jets will be. Obviously, we aren't going undefeated in the division again, but seems like we did good. Week 8 bye, all seems pretty good to me.
The Texans and Bears are tough games. The Lions and Vikings will be competitive. I expect the Browns to be improved. Outside of the Broncos, Bills and Dolphins the rest of the teams are either most likely a loss or threats to lose.
 
I don't think so. I see three games I pencil in as losses-Jets, Pats, Packers. The rest, I don't see a significantly better team anywhere. And I even question how good the Jets will be. Obviously, we aren't going undefeated in the division again, but seems like we did good. Week 8 bye, all seems pretty good to me.
The Texans and Bears are tough games. The Lions and Vikings will be competitive. I expect the Browns to be improved. Outside of the Broncos, Bills and Dolphins the rest of the teams are either most likely a loss or threats to lose.
Well, I think that all of our games are threats to lose. It's the nature of being a middle-of-the pack team. Which, I should say, is an improvement. We are in that weird 7-9 to 9-7 range, where we can lose to anyone or beat anyone. But we didn't draw a bad NFC division. The Vikes are interesting. They have been solid, and have a lot of talent. I wonder, however, about a team that took its shot with Favre the last two years, and fell short. I wonder about their mindset. I think it's imperative that they get a legit vet QB while they still have a semi-legit defense (that already showed cracks last year). Right now, tho, they'd be rolling out Joe Webb. We could be facing Jake Locker or Ryan Mallet. And for the in-division, all I can ask after the last decade is to be competitive in our division. We aren't the favorites, but we can play with all these teams.
 
I don't think so. I see three games I pencil in as losses-Jets, Pats, Packers. The rest, I don't see a significantly better team anywhere. And I even question how good the Jets will be. Obviously, we aren't going undefeated in the division again, but seems like we did good. Week 8 bye, all seems pretty good to me.
The Texans and Bears are tough games. The Lions and Vikings will be competitive. I expect the Browns to be improved. Outside of the Broncos, Bills and Dolphins the rest of the teams are either most likely a loss or threats to lose.
Your looking at the glass half empty. I'm looking at the glass half full. What you look at and see as likely losses, I see as games that good just as well being a win for us as well. IF we have another good draft and a good offseason, like free agency and players staying healthy I see no reason with that schedule why we can't win 9+ games.
 
I don't think so. I see three games I pencil in as losses-Jets, Pats, Packers. The rest, I don't see a significantly better team anywhere. And I even question how good the Jets will be. Obviously, we aren't going undefeated in the division again, but seems like we did good. Week 8 bye, all seems pretty good to me.
The Texans and Bears are tough games. The Lions and Vikings will be competitive. I expect the Browns to be improved. Outside of the Broncos, Bills and Dolphins the rest of the teams are either most likely a loss or threats to lose.
Well, I think that all of our games are threats to lose. It's the nature of being a middle-of-the pack team. Which, I should say, is an improvement. We are in that weird 7-9 to 9-7 range, where we can lose to anyone or beat anyone. But we didn't draw a bad NFC division. The Vikes are interesting. They have been solid, and have a lot of talent. I wonder, however, about a team that took its shot with Favre the last two years, and fell short. I wonder about their mindset. I think it's imperative that they get a legit vet QB while they still have a semi-legit defense (that already showed cracks last year). Right now, tho, they'd be rolling out Joe Webb. We could be facing Jake Locker or Ryan Mallet. And for the in-division, all I can ask after the last decade is to be competitive in our division. We aren't the favorites, but we can play with all these teams.
I think the Vikes will go hard after McNabb once the CBA is fixed. They still think they have the pieces but need that QB and they have shown that they are willing to make the big move now. What worries me about the Vikings though is Peterson. Our run D has improved but that guy can make a good run D look bad and ours is still not 'good' yet. I still think the schedule is tough but I am not saying we are doomed or anything. I think you are right about that 7-9/9-7 thing. I do think that we can win this division. I don't really believe in the Chefs and the Donkeys are obviously rebuilding. The Dolts are always capable of laying an egg regardless of how talented they are.
 
This is a dang tough schedule. Wk Date Matchup Time (ET) Time (PST)1 Mon. Sep. 12 at Broncos 10:15 PM 7:15 PM2 Sun. Sep. 18 at Bills 1:00 PM 10:00 AM3 Sun. Sep. 25 vs. Jets 4:05 PM 1:05 PM4 Sun. Oct. 02 vs. Patriots 4:15 PM 1:15 PM5 Sun. Oct. 09 at Texans 1:00 PM 10:00 AM6 Sun. Oct. 16 vs. Browns 4:05 PM 1:05 PM7 Sun. Oct. 23 vs. Chiefs 4:05 PM 1:05 PM8 BYE9 Sun. Nov. 06 vs. Broncos 4:05 PM 1:05 PM10 Thu. Nov. 10 at Chargers 8:20 PM 5:20 PM11 Sun. Nov. 20 at Vikings 1:00 PM 10:00 AM12 Sun. Nov. 27 vs. Bears 4:05 PM 1:05 PM13 Sun. Dec. 04 at Dolphins 1:00 PM 10:00 AM14 Sun. Dec. 11 at Packers 1:00 PM 10:00 AM15 Sun. Dec. 18 vs. Lions 4:05 PM 1:05 PM16 Sat. Dec. 24 at Chiefs 1:00 PM 10:00 AM17 Sun. Jan. 01 vs. Chargers 4:15 PM 1:15 PM
I guess I don't think it is as bad as everyone else? Jets/Pats/@Texans is the roughest 3 game stretch all year, and when 2/3 of your toughest games are at home you have to kind of roll the dice and think Oakland can come up big at home for a win.I agree with what the others have said about the easy NFC draw. Chicago and Minnesota don't have a QB (trust me on Cutler) and Stafford is young enough to be rattled playing at Oakland.I am happy with 5 home games and 3 road games first half of the season, that and a bye week right in the middle (hate very early/late byes).
 
With free agency being delayed, it is hard telling what will happen in the open market, but I really think that Oakland would be well served to come out of this draft with at least one solid FB prospect in the 4th-7th rounds. I am sure they are well aware of their lack of depth there.

 
With free agency being delayed, it is hard telling what will happen in the open market, but I really think that Oakland would be well served to come out of this draft with at least one solid FB prospect in the 4th-7th rounds. I am sure they are well aware of their lack of depth there.
It's one of those positions where decent players are sitting around after the draft. Do most teams carry two? I'd really like to see a developmental QB, a G, maybe a T, and some back 7 guys on defense. Players I'd like to see us get at any point:Colin Kaepernick--I think we have room for a developmental QB. It should also be said that I believed in JaMarcus Russel as a draft pick, so maybe this is the last guy we should take.Danny WatkinsBenjamin Ijalana--They are talking about Pouncey and Watkins both in the first. I dunno about that. I have a feeling scouts pushing for interior linemen in the first round get ignored more often than not. Cameron Jordan--Even if Zach returns, which I expect. If we can't get the ball to our WRs, then let's give Campbell another target underneath. I would love, absolutely LOVE, to have two solid TEs on this team. If we got a starting G in the 2nd, and this kid in the 3rd, I would be pretty content. Mason FosterKJ Wright--I think the team should still be looking for a WLB. Prefer to have this addressed in FA. I think Groves is just stopgap, and we have no idea what we have in Goethel. A cornerback, obviously. They tend to go early, as do D-linemen. I could see the team going after a CB in round 2, and snagging an interior lineman in the 3rd.
 
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I'd really like to see a developmental QB, a G, maybe a T, and some back 7 guys on defense. Players I'd like to see us get at any point:
Totally agree on dev QB, T. I wish we could somehow get Pouncey to play C as I think that's a need too.
Colin Kaepernick--I think we have room for a developmental QB. It should also be said that I believed in JaMarcus Russel as a draft pick, so maybe this is the last guy we should take.
I like this guy's upside. He's sort of a younger, fresher Campbell, which could seemingly make for a good fit under the vet. Rd 2, I'd be fine. Rd 3 or later I'd be stoked.
Danny WatkinsBenjamin Ijalana--They are talking about Pouncey and Watkins both in the first. I dunno about that. I have a feeling scouts pushing for interior linemen in the first round get ignored more often than not.
I like this guy too if he falls. Rd 2 does seem to be a place to find stud interior linemen and pay them on the cheap as starters for a few years.
A cornerback, obviously.
Secondary is one area where Al is still a wizard at scouting, even after all these years. Asomougha (1st rounder) and Routt (2nd) were both were considered "reaches" and yet both worked out pretty well. I like Chris Johnson (FA) as a nickle corner, but not as a starter. Ware (7th) and W. McFadden (5th) both showed some upside last year, but also looked pretty lost at times. Still not bad at all for late round rooks who you can build with going forward. But if Nnamdi leaves, he should be replaced by some experienced free agent CB on a cheaper, but still decent deal (Cromartie?). I love the young pup safeties athletically - Mitchell (2nd), Branch (4th), Brown (7th) - and I think they can grow as football players under new DB Coach Woodson. Michael Huff finally looked like a baller last season, but I don't expect him back as he'll probably get a fairly large deal somewhere other than Oakland. But maybe not? Maybe Huff could to corner and take Nnamdi's spot? It would be a risk since he hasn't played extensively at CB, but S money for a CB who knows your system might be worth it for the Raiders. But that kind of position change might also be just a fantasy player's pipe dream, I suppose.
 
I love the young pup safeties athletically - Mitchell (2nd), Branch (4th), Brown (7th) - and I think they can grow as football players under new DB Coach Woodson.
I am wondering about Mike Mitchell taking a spot, and Branch playing more FS. He got beat in coverage some last year, but has the speed our FS needs. If Mitchell is good enough to play SS, I find it hard to believe Eugene would be a better option at FS than Branch.
 
I love the young pup safeties athletically - Mitchell (2nd), Branch (4th), Brown (7th) - and I think they can grow as football players under new DB Coach Woodson.
I am wondering about Mike Mitchell taking a spot, and Branch playing more FS. He got beat in coverage some last year, but has the speed our FS needs. If Mitchell is good enough to play SS, I find it hard to believe Eugene would be a better option at FS than Branch.
Yeah, I avoided Eugene's name for a reason. He's a stop-gap at best until the younger guys are ready to be counted upon to not make the bonehead errors, which has plagued this defense for years. That said, a lot of that is a scheme problem because of the single high look that Al loves so much. I saw more scheme diversity last season; I hope that trend sticks. I really liked what I saw from Stevie Brown last season, considering his 7th rd rookie status. He's not the athletic specimen that Mitchell and Branch are, but he seems to have better football instincts. He might make a play for either S spot.
 
Great read, thank you. I was particularly interested in hearing about Al Davis' thoughts on Bruce Campbell. Sounds like the guy is going to be given a shot at one of the G spots. Clearly that dude is a physical beast. I will be excited to see if he can handle a starting role. If he excels this year, it will really make last year's draft even more impressive when you consider McClain, Houston, Veldheer, Ford, and even Brown/Ware/W. McFadden/Goethel. I see between five to seven of those guys winning starting jobs for this team in their coming sophomore season.
 
The draft is tomorrow... and for the first time since I was a little kid, I don't give a s##t. I don't know if it's because of the lockout, or because we don't have a first-round pick, but I'm not into it at all. Hopefully the juices will start flowing when the commish puts the Panthers on the clock.

 
The draft is tomorrow... and for the first time since I was a little kid, I don't give a s##t. I don't know if it's because of the lockout, or because we don't have a first-round pick, but I'm not into it at all. Hopefully the juices will start flowing when the commish puts the Panthers on the clock.
I felt the same mostly, but the last day or two have been like breaking down and falling into the old addiction. Rumors are the Raiders are a good shot to trade back into the first round. We need offensive linemen as Barnes is not opting to return, Walker is going to retire, and Gallery is gone. The entire O-line looks to be Veldheer, and some rotating pieces and it looks like a given that Bruce Campbell will get his shot to start this year. We could use a couple more O-linemen. The other priority is DB. We are looking at losing Nnamdi's services, and our 2 DB's we drafted late last year aren't going to fill his void. We need a top CB in this draft. I am hoping the Raiders trade up into the first round for Colorado CB Jimmmy Smith. Or if we stay at 48, we could take Stefan Wisniewski. You gotta like the Raider bloodlines. Some others are linking us with one of the QB's like Colin Kaepernick. I am not too keen on him at 48, let alone having to trade up to get him. We need help now on the O-line and especially at corner. :popcorn:
 
Huff and Aso: Will they stay or will they go?

Many of the best Raider minds are seriously leaning toward Nnamdi Asomugha no longer being a Raider.Maybe Al Davis thinks Oakland’s pass rush will make any Cornerback look good.As we mentioned earlier Oakland’s O line flux could make tomorrows draft interesting. So could the news that Nnamdi should start shopping for a house in Houston.Word is the Texans are willing to pay.Houston feels like they can compete this year if they can find someone to replace the production they lost when Dunta Robinson went elsewhere.Nnamdi's team mate 6-1, 205 lb Safety Michael Huff hopes a team will crack open their check books for him as he tests the waters in Free Agency.We're surprised by sources insistence that the former 7th overall pick is as good as gone if someone is willing to pay. He's been tied to Jacksonville. Houston could bite too.Huff faces competition from Free Safeties Melvin Bullit from Indy and Eric Weddle of the Chargers if 4 year players without contracts do indeed become Free Agents.The fact this year’s draft looks particularly weak at the Safety spot could help teams decide.Nnamdi and Huff.Both of these players fates will tie in directly to the Raiders success, or failure in the near future.Will they stay?Will they go?The draft in a few short hours could be our first indicator.
 
Is there a Raider O line Emergency?

When oft injured Raider Guard Robert Gallery priced himself out of the market earlier this year most conceeded Oakland would need to look at some of the linemen available in tomorrows draft but what many may not realize is how dire the Raiders O line problems could actually be.Rumor mill has it Tackle Mario Henderson was offered and refused a 1 yr contract offer. Not sure why he thinks he deserves more. He was benched from blind side duties last year in favor of rookie Jared Veldheer and is likely to miss games depending on the outcome of a gun charge aquired during the lock out.Henderson played at Right Tackle a few plays while starting RT Langston Walker was out with a concussion.Walker made a surprising return to Oakland after being dumped by the Bills who were foolish enough to pay him a big money contract. He played well enough but was not impressive enough to declare the position filled.Lets hope the Raiders have been looking at replacements. Rumor is Walker is thinking of retirement anyway.Add to this the fact Right Guard Cooper Carlisle is past his expiration date and you start to see the depth of Oaklands O line woes.But wait, theres more.Oakland took Left Tackle Bruce Campbell out of Maryland in the 4th round of last years draft . The man is a beast and has some football skills but saw little game time in college and is very inexperienced.He was dumped inside to Right Guard by former HC and Line guru Tom Cable as Cooper's heir apparent but many felt the move negated some of Campbell's best features, solid pass blocking and a massive wing span to snag out side rushers.Few realize Campbell did see game time last year in a very limted fashion and once games were out of reach.He was erratic.One play would look good and the next he'd falter but thats exactly what you'd expect from an inexperienced lineman.Hopefully he can learn as fast as fellow line man Jared Veldheer who never fell for the same trick twice despite being thrown in the fire his rookie year. Moves worked on him and he gave up 7.5 sacks in 11 games but again, no one fooled him twice.Speaking of getting fooled, Tackle Khalif Barnes is rumored to be on his way out of Oakland too.This one is a little shocking considering this resurgence as an "extra TE" in jumbo formations that decimated smaller, quicker 3-4 defense like those run by every single one of our AFC West rivals.He even caught a TD pass.6th yr man Daniel Loper is expected to compete for Gallery's old job at Left Guard and he made a few decent plays but then dissapeared in the line wash for a few games before apparently crossing Cable and Co.With Gallery back in the line up we never heard from Loper again except for a cool dismissal by Cable in a post game presser. Its a pretty safe bet we'll hear his name more this year. Lets hope its for the right reasons. With Free Agency stalled out at the moment and the draft hot on our heels look for Oakland to address its O line needs starting April 28th.According to some inside the Raiders organization, they have to.Then again, with Mr. Davis pulling the trigger, you never know...
 
From Rick Gosselin's final mock...

Team with no first-round pick48th pick: Oakland RaidersDontay Moch -- DE, NevadaAl Davis built the Raiders on power and speed in the 1960s and clings to that philosophy a half-century later. Moch is the fastest pass rusher in this draft with 4.46 speed in the 40.
I think they have other needs that are more pressing.
 
From Rick Gosselin's final mock...

Team with no first-round pick48th pick: Oakland RaidersDontay Moch -- DE, NevadaAl Davis built the Raiders on power and speed in the 1960s and clings to that philosophy a half-century later. Moch is the fastest pass rusher in this draft with 4.46 speed in the 40.
I think they have other needs that are more pressing.
Maybe.I mean, a LG and a RT would be nice, but I wonder if we can get a starting RT at 48. If there was one position that I would say we would be targeting I would say it's be RT. Guards? You can get guards. But if there is a premier pass rusher that, in their opinion, fell......well, I have no problem getting him. Although in this particular case, I think Goose was just placing the Raiders with a name of a player that fit their mold, and had been linked to them. Moch fits both. I don't care about position to round. We can use another CB, S, LB, OT, OG, and QB--and I have no problem with another DE, DT, or TE. I would just like to see us get good value at those picks. If we got Kaepernick in the 2nd, and Lil Wiz in the 3rd, that's be great. And if we got Watkins in the 2nd, and Davon House in the 3rd, that's be great too.
 
Source: Kaepernick is No. 1 QB on Raiders’ draft board

Posted by Evan Silva on April 28, 2011, 12:42 PM EDT

Twelve days ago, a league source told PFT that one unnamed AFC West team informed Nevada’s Colin Kaepernick that he is the No. 1 quarterback on their draft board.

PFT has tracked down the team.

Per a league source, it’s the Oakland Raiders.

The Raiders hosted Kaepernick for an official, team-facility visit on April 12. Thursday morning, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Oakland is trying to trade into the first round of the draft.

Michael David Smith speculated that Kaepernick could be the Raiders’ target. Other reports suggest it could be Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith.

Meanwhile, NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora told a Miami radio show Thursday morning that he believes the Dolphins will draft Kaepernick with the 15th overall pick.

Kaepernick was not included in renowned draft prognosticator Rick Gosselin’s first round.

 
If you go by Gosselin's mock(and history says he'll nail 26 or so), here's the players available in round 2:

22, Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson

33, Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple

35, Marcus Cannon G TCU

36, Ryan Williams RB Virginia Tech

37, Jon Baldwin WR Pittsburgh

38, Akeem Ayers S UCLA

39, Kyle Rudolph TE Notre Dame

40, Ryan Mallett QB Arkansas

41, James Carpenter OT Alabama

42, Daniel Thomas RB Kansas State

43, Greg Little WR North Carolina

44, Brooks Reed DE Arizona

45, Kenrick Ellis DT Hampton

46, Ras-I Dowling CB Virginia

47, Rahim Moore S UCLA

48, Torrey Smith WR Maryland

49, Jarvis Jenkins DT Clemson

50, Orlando Franklin OT Miami

51, Mikel Leshoure RB Illinois

52, Titus Young WR Boise State

53, Lance Kendricks TE Wisconsin

54, Stephen Paea DT Oregon State

55, Randall Cobb WR Kentucky

56, Will Rackley G Lehigh

57, Edmond Gates WR Abilene Christian

58, Allen Bailey DE Miami

59, Terrell McClain DT South Florida

60, Martez Wilson OLB Illinois

61, Shareece Wright CB Southern California

62, Taiwan Jones RB Eastern Washington

63, Colin Kaepernick QB Nevada

64, Brandon Harris CB Miami

65, Bruce Carter OLB North Carolina

66, Rodney Hudson C Florida State

67, Dontay Moch DE Nevada

68, Shane Vereen RB California

69, Luke Stocker TE Tennessee

70, Jah Reid OT Central Florida

71, Leonard Hankerson WR Miami

72, Marcus Gilchrist CB Clemson

73, Steve Wisniewski C Penn State

74, Kendall Hunter RB Oklahoma State

75, K.J. Wright OLB Mississippi State

76, John Moffitt G Georgia

77, Tandon Doss WR Indiana

78, Drake Nevis DT LSU

79, Marcus Gilbert OT Florida

Boy, I wouldn't be mad if Bowers slid that far.

 
Scouts Inc. 7 round mock for Oakland:

2 48 Johnny Patrick CB Louisville

3 81 Joseph Lefeged S Rutgers

4 113 David Arkin OG Missouri State

5 148 Jordan Cameron LB USC

6 181 Aldrick Robinson WR SMU

7 219 Nathan Enderle QB Idaho

7 241 Michael Smith OT Nebraska

 
Stefan Wisnewski. Interesting that we passed on Mallet.
I like the pick. Raider bloodlines. We needed the help on the O-line. I don't like Mallet's makeup. Lil' Wiz is going to make a nice impact on the line, and we need a center. Satele did a great job in the 2nd half of last year, and we don't have a backup on the roster, till this pick. I honestly was hoping that we would have had a shot at Kaepernick, but that wasn't to be. I think you'll like what you see from Stefan.
 
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