2011 Oakland Raiders In-Season Thread (2 Viewers)

[Ministry of Pain]

Kevin Boss is one of the worst startng TEs in football. He got what he was worth and maybe even more. He's solid at run blocking but he lacks big time in the receiving dept. He couldn't catch balls from Eli Manning, what's he gonna do when he pairs up with Campbell? Ughhhh!And one other thing my Oakland buddies...when your team is on top and they make a move you feel is better financially, I get that, but when your team is pretty awful and one fo your best prospects on offense leaves, and then one of your best interior lineman leaves...oakland was way over the salary cap and spent ridiculous when there was no cap so let's not give their FO that much credit for not signing Miller. They aren't brainchilds who made a sly move by letting Miller go for Boss. And please Oakland fans, its not meant with any hate, just trying to show some perspective of where the Raiders are at.

The FO tried to sign Miller. I'm hopeing Boss is just a short term answer as a starter. When someone else steps up, Boss could either be cut or moved into the blocking TE role. Its not like we let Miller go because of Boss. We signed Boss because Miller decided to leave.

good points

 

[Vision6]

I find it funny that Miller was pretty much ignored as an under the radar player while he was with us but when he leaves he's all of a sudden a super stud who can't be replaced.

What a coincidence

 

[massraider]

Kevin Boss is one of the worst startng TEs in football. He got what he was worth and maybe even more. He's solid at run blocking but he lacks big time in the receiving dept. He couldn't catch balls from Eli Manning, what's he gonna do when he pairs up with Campbell? Ughhhh!

And one other thing my Oakland buddies...when your team is on top and they make a move you feel is better financially, I get that, but when your team is pretty awful and one fo your best prospects on offense leaves, and then one of your best interior lineman leaves...oakland was way over the salary cap and spent ridiculous when there was no cap so let's not give their FO that much credit for not signing Miller. They aren't brainchilds who made a sly move by letting Miller go for Boss. And please Oakland fans, its not meant with any hate, just trying to show some perspective of where the Raiders are at.

Holy mother of God, what an ego.Do me a favor, don't come in here and pretend to drop knowledge of 'where the Raiders are at.'

We know our team better than you do. No one is happy Miller left. But we ARE happy that we got a vet at the position to help replace him. And we are happy he wasn't expensive.

Is that OK with you? Can we be happy the team managed to scrape up some change after "spending ridiculous', and somehow managed to sign a starting TE? I am guessing Boss is an improvement over Brandon Myers as a starter, but I defer to your knowledge. If you want to pull out some of your Brandon Myers scouting tapes and show some more perspective on where the Raiders are at, that'd be swell.

We didn't lose Gallery, BTW, we told him he wasn't getting the money he wanted from us. This season, when Tarvaris Jackson is lying on the ground in pain, if you are wondering where the breakdown came, look for Gallery. He'd be the O-lineman on his back.

Check the old Raider threads, I have been knocking this guy for over a year. Completely overrated. Decent in run pro, well below average in pass pro.

Unreal.

I like you MOP, I really do. You contribute more to actual fantasy discussion than anyone else on the board, IMO. And maybe I am just being a sensitive homer. It's possible, although I think I am pretty fair-sighted on my team. I just think you are talking a little bit out of your #### on this one, and I actually don't think this team is 'pretty awful' any more.

Moving on:

Happy we signed a TE, but I am not moving Miller's looks over to Boss. From a fantasy perspective, I think DMC catches the most balls of his young career, and Reece in particular, should benefit. That's what I am hoping anyway. The speed that those two guys possess at their position, they should be no worse than 3rd option on any pass play when they on the field. I've been pounding on Reece since we signed him from U of W a few years ago, and am really glad he has found a spot. We're talking a fullback that ran under 4.4!! You really can't commit a safety to cover a fullback regularly, and almost any LB that is covering him is outgunned. I would like to see at least three plays a game designed to get him isolated downfield.

Looking forward to these preseason games more than any year I can remember:

Can Jason Campbell actually improve, with more than one year in the same offense (First time that has happened to him since early in college. Look it up: 9 years, 9 offenses, is what he said recently)?? I think he is nothing more than a stop-gap personally, but I am rooting for him, and will be looking for him to get comfortable in the O. I hope he gets more reps than most starters this summer.

The O-line: Well, you can't say we haven't addressed the position. Battles at every position except LT. Scary, but at least I like the chances of some of the guys involved in the battles, for a change. We need two guards from Loper, Smiley, Carlisle, and Campbell (Is Campbell at G still?? I assume so). I love bringing Satele back. Lil' Wiz is not a blue chip C prospect, I am fine having a vet there to push him, and maybe keep the job one more year. Prretty encouraged about what I have read about Barksdale, and I am glad we have Khalif Barnes there as well, at this point I prefer him to Walker or Hendo. Braksdale will be one of the guys I am looking forward to seeing next week.

Along with the growing legend of Denarius Moore. Damn, but he sounds good. All the WRs should be interesting this summer actually. I don't care who develops, I really don't, but I want someone to. Chaz, DHB, Lou, whoever. Just know that I am sick of hearing about Murphy making amazing catches, then clanking a routine one. He's been the most productive guy there, but we can't have a starter dropping the easy one.

The development of Lamar Houston and Shaugnessy is also interesting. Both are SO young, I am a little giddy about what these two might do as they improve. Houston seems like a homerun of a draft pick thus far.

The WLB spot is concerning. Groves or Goethel? Question mark.

All the young CBs should be fun to watch, as they get a lot of action this summer. I don't have an opinion on any of them really, it'll be interesting to see who emerges from McFadden, Chekwa, Van Dyke, etc.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Hey Mass totally get it, and I understand. I was very excited about what Oakland was putting together last year...they would have been the other team besides KC that I felt folks were "overlooking" but this year I am jumping off ship. I don't like the moves, the loss of parts of the offense, the injuries early to both Ford and DMC who are probably their best players on offense. I really have not been looking at their defense much as I don't play IDP and all I care about is the offense, but I also am not sure the defense can carry them to greatness right now. Not a fan of Hue as a HC either but if you are on board with him, good for you and the fans. From an outside perspective though it doesn't look good to me and a lot of it has to do with Oakland spending something like $155m last year and being way over the cap this year. Poor planning IMO. So it's hard to not think that a downgrade at TE like Miller to Boss, hard to not think it has an impact on the offense. I have Oakland in the 4-5 win total this season, am I way off?

 

[massraider]

Hey Mass totally get it, and I understand. I was very excited about what Oakland was putting together last year...they would have been the other team besides KC that I felt folks were "overlooking" but this year I am jumping off ship. I don't like the moves, the loss of parts of the offense, the injuries early to both Ford and DMC who are probably their best players on offense. I really have not been looking at their defense much as I don't play IDP and all I care about is the offense, but I also am not sure the defense can carry them to greatness right now. Not a fan of Hue as a HC either but if you are on board with him, good for you and the fans. From an outside perspective though it doesn't look good to me and a lot of it has to do with Oakland spending something like $155m last year and being way over the cap this year. Poor planning IMO. So it's hard to not think that a downgrade at TE like Miller to Boss, hard to not think it has an impact on the offense. I have Oakland in the 4-5 win total this season, am I way off?

Maybe not. I don't think they get above average until they get a franchise QB, and anything can happen to make a team worse. The offense improves, IMO. I think the line is better, Campbell improves at least slightly at QB, and the young WRs get better. The defense gets better. A lot of young players that they are counting on. Losing Aso sucks, but with the Raiders D, it's all about pass rush. If we get pressure, all the corners look great. If we don't, whoever was opposite Aso looked terrible. Just the nature of running man-to-man.8-8 is what I expect. I daydream about 9-7.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Hey Mass totally get it, and I understand. I was very excited about what Oakland was putting together last year...they would have been the other team besides KC that I felt folks were "overlooking" but this year I am jumping off ship. I don't like the moves, the loss of parts of the offense, the injuries early to both Ford and DMC who are probably their best players on offense. I really have not been looking at their defense much as I don't play IDP and all I care about is the offense, but I also am not sure the defense can carry them to greatness right now. Not a fan of Hue as a HC either but if you are on board with him, good for you and the fans. From an outside perspective though it doesn't look good to me and a lot of it has to do with Oakland spending something like $155m last year and being way over the cap this year. Poor planning IMO. So it's hard to not think that a downgrade at TE like Miller to Boss, hard to not think it has an impact on the offense. I have Oakland in the 4-5 win total this season, am I way off?

Maybe not. I don't think they get above average until they get a franchise QB, and anything can happen to make a team worse. The offense improves, IMO. I think the line is better, Campbell improves at least slightly at QB, and the young WRs get better. The defense gets better. A lot of young players that they are counting on. Losing Aso sucks, but with the Raiders D, it's all about pass rush. If we get pressure, all the corners look great. If we don't, whoever was opposite Aso looked terrible. Just the nature of running man-to-man.8-8 is what I expect. I daydream about 9-7.

Are Schuening and Barksdale starting or are they just depth as guys like Barnes, Smiley, and Satele slide back in front of them? Barksdale is a rookie, Veldheer looked promising at times but he still only in year 2. Very green Tackles could mean problems throwing the ball. Schuenig, Barksdale, and Wisniewski have a total of how many NFL starts right now? Maybe those 3 will be worked in slowly but Satele and Smiley are not promising if they go that route.

 

[RaiderBones]

Hey Mass totally get it, and I understand. I was very excited about what Oakland was putting together last year...they would have been the other team besides KC that I felt folks were "overlooking" but this year I am jumping off ship. I don't like the moves, the loss of parts of the offense, the injuries early to both Ford and DMC who are probably their best players on offense. I really have not been looking at their defense much as I don't play IDP and all I care about is the offense, but I also am not sure the defense can carry them to greatness right now. Not a fan of Hue as a HC either but if you are on board with him, good for you and the fans. From an outside perspective though it doesn't look good to me and a lot of it has to do with Oakland spending something like $155m last year and being way over the cap this year. Poor planning IMO. So it's hard to not think that a downgrade at TE like Miller to Boss, hard to not think it has an impact on the offense. I have Oakland in the 4-5 win total this season, am I way off?

Maybe not. I don't think they get above average until they get a franchise QB, and anything can happen to make a team worse. The offense improves, IMO. I think the line is better, Campbell improves at least slightly at QB, and the young WRs get better. The defense gets better. A lot of young players that they are counting on. Losing Aso sucks, but with the Raiders D, it's all about pass rush. If we get pressure, all the corners look great. If we don't, whoever was opposite Aso looked terrible. Just the nature of running man-to-man.8-8 is what I expect. I daydream about 9-7.

Are Schuening and Barksdale starting or are they just depth as guys like Barnes, Smiley, and Satele slide back in front of them? Barksdale is a rookie, Veldheer looked promising at times but he still only in year 2. Very green Tackles could mean problems throwing the ball. Schuenig, Barksdale, and Wisniewski have a total of how many NFL starts right now? Maybe those 3 will be worked in slowly but Satele and Smiley are not promising if they go that route.

Up too this point in training camp so far Barksdale has been impressive. I'm not saying he will win the RT job but I wouldn't be surprised if at somepoint he will be a starting tackle for the Raiders this year.

 

[RaiderBones]

Very happy with the signing of Boss. I know he isn't on the same level of Miller when it comes to pass catching, but he is one heck of a blocker and since we want to run the ball alot this year it can't hurt to have a solid TE helping with the blocking. I think all the Raiders will be asking from Boss is to be a solid blocker and a quality endzone target. I think this year the Raiders want to emphasize getting the ball to the receivers more.

 

[massraider]

Hey Mass totally get it, and I understand. I was very excited about what Oakland was putting together last year...they would have been the other team besides KC that I felt folks were "overlooking" but this year I am jumping off ship. I don't like the moves, the loss of parts of the offense, the injuries early to both Ford and DMC who are probably their best players on offense. I really have not been looking at their defense much as I don't play IDP and all I care about is the offense, but I also am not sure the defense can carry them to greatness right now. Not a fan of Hue as a HC either but if you are on board with him, good for you and the fans. From an outside perspective though it doesn't look good to me and a lot of it has to do with Oakland spending something like $155m last year and being way over the cap this year. Poor planning IMO. So it's hard to not think that a downgrade at TE like Miller to Boss, hard to not think it has an impact on the offense. I have Oakland in the 4-5 win total this season, am I way off?

Maybe not. I don't think they get above average until they get a franchise QB, and anything can happen to make a team worse. The offense improves, IMO. I think the line is better, Campbell improves at least slightly at QB, and the young WRs get better. The defense gets better. A lot of young players that they are counting on. Losing Aso sucks, but with the Raiders D, it's all about pass rush. If we get pressure, all the corners look great. If we don't, whoever was opposite Aso looked terrible. Just the nature of running man-to-man.8-8 is what I expect. I daydream about 9-7.

Are Schuening and Barksdale starting or are they just depth as guys like Barnes, Smiley, and Satele slide back in front of them? Barksdale is a rookie, Veldheer looked promising at times but he still only in year 2. Very green Tackles could mean problems throwing the ball. Schuenig, Barksdale, and Wisniewski have a total of how many NFL starts right now? Maybe those 3 will be worked in slowly but Satele and Smiley are not promising if they go that route.

Nobody knows how it's going to shake out, especially at the tackles. Veldheer is green, for sure, but looked as a rookie the way a good tackle is supposed to look as a rookie. More nice plays than bad, and got better as season wore on. Raider fans are right to be excited about this guy. Hillsdale College two years ago, starting NFL LT last year. Better than anyone expected, and I think improvement is to be expected. If so, that means our LT spot this year will be better than last year. I am not counting on Barksdale, he was a mid-rounder, but nice to hear that he is holding his own. I still think Barnes gets the RT job to start the season, it's easy to get excited about an unknown rookie, but they are often overrated by the fans in August. It's only been a handful of practices, I preach caution on the training camp phenoms myself. People were all excited about Nick Miller a few years ago. The interior of the line is a question, but there's youth and upside right next to vets. I would be very surprised if the interior of the line isn't as good, if not better moving forward. Cooper Carlisle gets zero love, but he was just as effective as Gallery last year in both facets of line play. Tribute to an underrated player, or example of how Gallery got built up, take your pick. The Raiders liked Loper a lot, we will see. Bruce Campbell and Smiley are there, and from those four, our starting guards should emerge. Satele or Lil Wiz, I don't care which. May the best man win. I think it is very possible that Wiz needs to get stronger, and maybe Satele keeps the job to start the season. Satele is average, period. Better than Grove, who couldn't stay healthy, and if he is our backup, I am fine with that. The team has bigger questions than center, I am fine with the way this position looks, we will see how training camp shakes out. This team is freaking young. Young WRs, young linemen (both sides of the ball), young MLB, young corners. I think this team will be playing a lot better at the end of the season than the beginning, the biggest concern, year in and year out, is discipline on the field, avoiding penalties.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Very happy with the signing of Boss. I know he isn't on the same level of Miller when it comes to pass catching, but he is one heck of a blocker and since we want to run the ball alot this year it can't hurt to have a solid TE helping with the blocking. I think all the Raiders will be asking from Boss is to be a solid blocker and a quality endzone target. I think this year the Raiders want to emphasize getting the ball to the receivers more.

My sentiments exactly. Some cautious optimism mixed for Raider fans after losing our pro-bowl TE. We're incrementally better today.

 

[Faust]

Camp Confidential: Raiders

By Bill Williamson

NAPA, Calif. -- Hue Jackson doesn’t do anything slow.

He talks fast. He walks fast, and he coaches fast.

The Tom Cable put-your-toe-in-the-water-start-of-training-camp days are over.

There was no warm-up period to Camp Jackson. In his first camp as a head coach on any level, Jackson has not wasted any time. His team has been flying around the field and playing to the whistle on every play since the moment it stepped onto the pristine practice field in Wine Country last week.

Cable believed in getting into the groove of training camp slowly by holding glorified walk-through practices for the first few days while stressing the importance of the classroom. Jackson believes in teaching on the go.

Jackson sees a talented team in front of him, but he also sees a team that needs to block better on offense and tackle better on defense. It’s all about finishing plays on both sides the ball. If you don’t start, you can’t finish.

“It’s a fast game,” Jackson said. “We have to move fast. At all times.”

When they can catch their breath, Jackson's players can see the difference.

"This is totally different, totally different from last year," defensive tackle Tommy Kelly told reporters early in camp. "I mean, he made that plain and clear in the meetings when he was talking about what we had to do …(Cable), he wanted us to learn the stuff. But Hue ain't worrying about that. He just wants to go hard as you can. If you fall out, we'll put somebody else in there."

There is urgency in Oakland. The Raiders teased their fans with an 8-8 record in 2010 -- highlighted by an AFC West 6-0 sweep -- ending an NFL record of seven straight seasons of 11 losses of more. This young team has a chance to continue to improve. Jackson isn’t going to sit around and wait for it to happen.

“We got to go now,” Jackson said. “I talk to them every night about that.”

THREE HOT ISSUES

1. How to replace Asomugha and Miller? The Raiders have to spend training camp trying to figure out how to replace two of their best players. Not many teams are dealing with that this summer. But the departures of star cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha to Philadelphia and tight end Zach Miller to Seattle create holes for the Raiders.

They gave Stanford Routt, formerly a part-time starter, No.1 cornerback money in the offseason and expect him to take over for Asomugha. Oakland has reportedly toyed with signing another cornerback. But for now, veteran Chris Johnson and a host of young players, including draft picks DeMarcus Van Dyke and Chimdi Chekwa (who is currently injured), will be in charge of replacing Asomugha, who is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL. Safety Michael Huff, who just re-signed with the team, could also play cornerback in some situations.

The Raiders probably need to bring in a veteran receiver or a tight end. Right now, their starting tight end is Brandon Myers, who has 16 career catches. Miller was quarterback Jason Campbell’s favorite target, and he led the Raiders in receiving in 2010. He made the passing game go. A replacement must be established in camp. (Update: The Raiders added former Giants tight end Kevin Boss on Friday.)

2. Is the offensive line ready? This has long been Oakland’s weakest spot, and Jackson vowed earlier this year to improve it. Finding a suitable unit will be a top goal in training camp. The team drafted Stefen Wisniewski in the second round, and he will start at center. Joe Barksdale was drafted in the third round, and he could battle Khalif Barnes at right tackle if he has a good camp. If second-year guard Bruce Campbell gets healthy quickly, he could make a push at guard, where the Raiders lost longtime starter Robert Gallery in free agency. The team wanted to sign left tackle Jared Gaither, but he is still dealing with back issues. This unit remains a work in progress.

3. Is Campbell ready to be consistent? This is Campbell’s second season in Jackson’s system, and he is expected to make strides. He must show consistency in camp, and he most continue to grasp Jackson’s offense. He started slowly last season and was replaced. But he finished strong. Jackson is a believer in Campbell. Campbell needs to continue to build chemistry with his receivers and entrench himself as the leader of this offense.

CLEAN UP THE MESS

The Raiders have long been one of the most penalized teams in the NFL. It goes back to their golden era. Whether it was a cheap hit or a false start, the yellow flag is a familiar sight for the Silver and Black.

Jackson wants to end that part of Raiders’ lore.

The Raiders were ranked first in the NFL last season in accepted penalties with 604. It seems penalties have been overlooked in Oakland because it’s long been an issue. Jackson thinks that is nonsense. Playing clean football is an emphasis of this camp.

“It’s over,” Jackson said. “It’s embarrassing ... You can’t win if you keep going backward. I’ve told the team it’s got to stop. It’s not cool at all.”

DEFENSE STARTS UP FRONT

While the offensive line is still in flux, the Raiders are set on the defensive line. This camp is about establishing dominance for the group. If the Oakland defense improves despite Asomugha’s departure, the front four will be responsible.

There are several excellent pieces on the unit. It all starts with defensive tackle Richard Seymour. A likely future member of the Hall of Fame, Seymour is the best player on the team and the leader of his unit. Add Kelly, polished second-year player Lamarr Houston and run-stuffer John Henderson, and the Raiders are primed to dominate teams up front. Pass-rushers Matt Shaughnessy and Trevor Scott (if healthy) give this unit an important dimension.

OBSERVATION DECK

[*]Jackson has often lauded second-year linebacker Rolando McClain during camp. He thinks McClain has developed in the offseason, and McClain is expected to be a stalwart.

[*]Running back Darren McFadden was spectacular during camp before he suffered a broken orbital bone. He is expected to miss two weeks. The Raiders expect him to make a serious Pro Bowl push. He and restricted free-agent Michael Bush should be a good tandem again.

[*]Second-year linebacker Travis Goethel could potentially push Quentin Groves at weakside or Oakland could look for an upgrade elsewhere.

[*]The team is excited about fifth-round receiver Denarius Moore. He is a polished and very fast and has a chance to contribute. It will be interesting to see him in the preseason.

[*]Seventh-round pick David Ausberry has looked good as he makes the transition from receiver. He’s a project, but he has excellent size and speed.

[*]Fourth-year receiver Chaz Schilens is finally healthy and Raiders think he can live up to his potential. But his health is the key.

[*]Kelly looks tremendous. He is in great shape and looks primed to build upon his strong 2010 season.

[*]Trent Edwards will be given every opportunity to beat out Kyle Boller as Campbell’s backup.

[*]Jackson thinks the Raiders fourth-round pick, speedster running back Taiwan Jones, could make his mark this season. It will be fun to watch him in the preseason.

 

[massraider]

This Gutierrez guy ain't bad, I haven't read a ton of his stuff:

Paul Gutierrez

CSNCalifornia.com

Practice No. 7

Summary: With the players union re-certifying itself and voting to ratify the new Collective Bargaining Agreement early Thursday afternoon, the Raiders had a larger complement of players at their disposal. The veterans who agreed to contracts with the team after the lockout ended were finally allowed to practice, giving the Raiders 83 players on their training camp roster. But one big name is still missing, that of restricted free agent Michael Bush, who has yet to sign his first- and third-round tenders. Plus, there were so many guys nicked up that didn't suit up. The offense again got the better of the defense for the second day in a row, even if the defense showed what is likely to be its starting 11 come opening night in Denver. Yes, it was the Denarius Moore show again.

Injury report: Fifteen players sat out practice with various "nicks," receivers Jacoby Ford (broken left hand), Louis Murphy and Eddie McGhee, fullback James McCluskey, tailbacks Taiwan Jones, Michael Bennett and Darren McFadden (fractured eye socket), offensive linemen Cooper Carlisle, Bruce Campbell (knee), Lou Eiliades and Alan Pelc, defensive backs Chimdi Chekwa (shoulder), Walter McFadden and Joe Porter and defensive end Trevor Scott (knee). Plus, linebacker Rolando McClain, cornerback Walter McFadden and quarterback Jason Campbell did not finish practice.

Offensive play of the day: A day after putting together a highlight reel tape against cornerback Stanford Routt, rookie receiver Denarius Moore delivered again. This time, running a post from 25 yards out, an outstretched Moore went up and, between Stevie Brown and DeMarcus Van Dyke, plucked Jason Campbell's pass out of the air. Moore came down with both feet in the end zone for the touchdown, just in front often goalpost. It was as impressive as it was physical.

Defensive play of the day: While a healthy Chaz Schilens has been the most impressive wideout thus far in camp, "forgotten" cornerback Chris Johnson owned him on one play. With Schilens running a short curl, Johnson cut in front of him and intercepted Jason Campbell's pass. For a split second, when Johnson's No. 37 flashed for the pick, it looked like Lester Hayes and gobs of stickum flying into the picture. Almost.

Eye on reps: With all of their players finally available, the defense took on a familiar look. On the line, Lamarr Houston, Tommy Kelly, Richard Seymour and Matt Shaughnessy. Quentin Groves, Rolando McClain and Kamerion Wimbley were the linebackers. And Stanford Routt and Chris Johnson were the cornerbacks while Tyvon Branch and Michael Huff were the safeties.

Rookie report: Center Stefen Wisniewski's baptism by fire continued in an especially grueling session in which he went one-on-one with the Raiders' fearsome three-headed monster of Richard Seymour, John Henderson and Tommy Kelly. All in a day's work for the Raiders legacy. Especially since he's more than holding his own.

Notable: With the Raiders entering the day anywhere from $14 million to $17 million over the cap, reportedly, and the players ratifying the new CBA in time to officially start the new league year, the 1 p.m. deadline for teams to get under the $120-million salary cap was pushed back 24 hours. "We will be in compliance," said Raiders coach Hue Jackson. "(Al Davis) knows that cap as well as anybody in this league." As such, there was no movement in the Kevin Boss talks, though reports came out that Stanford Routt and Richard Seymour both re-structured their contracts to help out. Neither, though, confirmed as much.

Quotable: "Well, you know, I always remain, Hey, I don't talk about contracts and, uh, anything like that. But, you know, I'll be ready for Game 1, so." - Defensive tackle Richard Seymour on if he's re-structured his contract to help the Raiders' salary cap woes.

Next practice: Friday, 3:30 p.m.

http://www.csnbayarea.com/08/04/11/Camp-Report-84-Raiders-welcome-back-old-/landing_gutierrez.html?blockID=546143&feedID=7638

 

[massraider]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825103/vp/44037956#44037956

Florio and Gutierrez

 

[Chadstroma]

Very happy with the signing of Boss. I know he isn't on the same level of Miller when it comes to pass catching, but he is one heck of a blocker and since we want to run the ball alot this year it can't hurt to have a solid TE helping with the blocking. I think all the Raiders will be asking from Boss is to be a solid blocker and a quality endzone target. I think this year the Raiders want to emphasize getting the ball to the receivers more.

My sentiments exactly. Some cautious optimism mixed for Raider fans after losing our pro-bowl TE. We're incrementally better today.

As indicated by my several posts wanting to target him- I am very happy with this signing.

 

[massraider]

http://twitter.com/#!/VittorioTafur

Good Twitter guy to follow for training camp reports.

 

[massraider]

There were a lot of new faces, as 15 recently-signed players practiced for the first time on Thursday (per the new CBA). But for the second straight day (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/03/SPKQ1KJ3KL.DTL), the standout was rookie receiver Denarius Moore.

The fifth-round pick made four nice catches on Wednesday, then topped them all Thursday with tip-toe catch in the back of the endzone over Stevie Brown and DeMarcus Van Dyke. Teammates, including quarterback Jason Campbell, ran down the field to mob him.

"It was overwhelming for a rookie to make a play like that and then get supported by the whole team," Moore said. "The support and the love I was getting, I was real happy from it."

Moore and Campbell connected again later, on a deep touchdown pass that Moore hauled in over his shoulder in stride.

"The young man can make some plays, can't he?" coach Hue Jackson said. "Oh, my gosh is he something? He's fun to watch. Every day there's something. A ball goes up, he comes down with it and makes a play. He has tremendous talent. The game is not too big for him."

Moore is getting into the heads of veteran cornerbacks (Stanford Routt Wednesday) and rookie cornerbacks (Sterling Moore Thursday) alike.

"I swear, if @Moore_ThanEnuff runs one more out-and-up, double move or corner-and-up, ima kill someone!!!" Sterling Moore Tweeted after practice.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Are Schuening and Barksdale starting or are they just depth as guys like Barnes, Smiley, and Satele slide back in front of them? Barksdale is a rookie, Veldheer looked promising at times but he still only in year 2. Very green Tackles could mean problems throwing the ball. Schuenig, Barksdale, and Wisniewski have a total of how many NFL starts right now? Maybe those 3 will be worked in slowly but Satele and Smiley are not promising if they go that route.

Schuening is fighting just to make the roster and is benefiting from injuries to B Campbell and Carlisle. Campbell was rumored to be expected to start this year but hasnt passed his physical yet. The main competitors for starting guards are Campbell, Smiley, Carlisle, Loper, and possibly Satele or Wisniewski. I like how Oakland gradually gave Veldheer more and more snaps as the season went on last year. I could see them doing the same with Barksdale if he isnt starting week 1. Barnes and Heyer just got to camp yesterday like everybody else who signed new contracts. Barkdale was the beneficiary. Starting RT is a wide open competition between all our tackles with the exception of Velheer because he's the LT. Barnes, Barksdale, Heyer, and Wand are the main competitors. Nobody has been given the edge yet.Its too early in camp to proclaim anyone a starter. There are a lot of new faces. Veldheer is looking good and is pretty much a lock back at LT after Gaither and Henderson failed their physicals. They want Wisniewski to start but like even the most touted rookie he has to earn it. Like RT, starting LG is vacant until someone earns it. I expect Smiley or Campbell to win that spot but Loper who started when Gallery was hurt is also in the mix. Carlisle will fight to keep his job at RG but that's where Campbell is most rumored to supposed to be competing.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Practice Notes Day Nine

Second year MLB Rolando McClain remained on the side line for today’s practice with an undisclosed injury. WR Louis Murphy also sat.

This was his third day on the bench.

With RBs Michael Bennett and rookie Taiwan Jones still injured as well, veteran Rock Cartwright and Louis Rankin joined forces to man the back field.

Rankin has been impressive so far in camp after a brief stint in Seattle rejoining the Raiders.

Former NY TE Kevin Boss did sign with Oakland it was announced today but he was not on the practice field. His $16 million dollar contract ($8millionguaranteed) is under the entirety of former Raider, now Seahawk TE Zach Miller whose5 year, $32 million dollar deal guaranteed him $17 million.

Boss underwent arthroscopic surgery on his hip last season but apparently cleared Oakland medical.

Speaking of injuries, second year OT Bruce Campbell was seen working out briskly with LB Trevor Scott. Both had knee issues with Scott's ligament tear last year the worse of the two.

Rookies continue to make their case with 5th round pick Denarius Moore hauling in a TD pass over a stunned DeMarcus Van Dyke. CB Sterling Moore snagged his second pick of camp today and looks like the best UDFA of the off season so far.

OL Roy Shuening is making some noise and garnering reps while RG Cooper Carlisle is out with a "nick".

He's been making plays and taking no quarter after being involved in a brawl today.

Kudos to veteran DT Big John Henderson who chased ball carries all over the field today.

WR/TE rookie David Ausberry snags a deep ball over the middle to end the session.

Good practice today.

 

[Garrett]

Kevin Boss is one of the worst startng TEs in football. He got what he was worth and maybe even more. He's solid at run blocking but he lacks big time in the receiving dept. He couldn't catch balls from Eli Manning, what's he gonna do when he pairs up with Campbell? Ughhhh!

And one other thing my Oakland buddies...when your team is on top and they make a move you feel is better financially, I get that, but when your team is pretty awful and one fo your best prospects on offense leaves, and then one of your best interior lineman leaves...oakland was way over the salary cap and spent ridiculous when there was no cap so let's not give their FO that much credit for not signing Miller. They aren't brainchilds who made a sly move by letting Miller go for Boss. And please Oakland fans, its not meant with any hate, just trying to show some perspective of where the Raiders are at.

OK.

The fact that you think letting Gallery leave hurt Oakland, disqualifies anything you say about the team for the next 5 years. If anything Oakland/Tom Cable saved his career as a NFL player by paying him 2nd overall pick money to fail miserably at tackle and learn, on the job, how to play guard. The guy evolved from being documented as one of the most penalized "false start/holding" players in the league (link) to a turnstile in pass protection at guard.

Spending "ridiculous" when there is no cap is a bad move? Heyward Bey is obviously struggling to live up to his rookie contract, why not max it out during the uncapped year and advance getting it off the books moving forward? He earned 21.5 million last year towards his 23.5 guaranteed contract. Any team that did not use the uncapped year to help burn off salary cap nightmares should be the topic of your next post. Why is burning off guaranteed money in an uncapped year a bad move, because Al Davis did it? That is an honest question because I am not a salary cap expert, but to me it makes sense to burn contracts off when there is no cap.

You mentioned Boss is solid at run blocking, you know Oakland is the best running offense in the NFL right? What kind of TE do you think we are looking for? Just because he isn't going to help your fantasy team doesn't mean that Oakland didn't benefit from signing this guy.

 

[massraider]

I am rooting for Rankin. He has skills.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

TY Mass and UK Coach, really good stuff.

 

[massraider]

So reading through the camp reports (really glad Jerry Mac is still on the beat, even tho Corkran gets the more day-to-day stuff), Seems like Denarius Moore, Barksdale, and Ausberry are the best-looking newcomers. If they turn out to be good picks, just goes to show why come Draft Day, you need to be willing to withhold judgement a little bit. Not really favorites of Raider Nation initially, especially Barksdale.

Read today that Barnes got some work at RT because Barksdale had been getting ALL the work. Interesting. Has he looked that good, or are the Raiders trying to fast-track him because they don't believe in Barnes? Maybe they just want to see what he has? Can't wait to watch him in the preseason.

Glad we re-signed Bush, and I expect this to be his last season in Oakland. With DMC, Bush, and Taiwan, I hope we have the seen the last regular season carry of Michael Bennett.

Goethel has been working at all three LB spots, I wonder if that means he ain't good enough for one of them, or if the Raiders are trying to find his best spot. They were pretty excited about him last summer, I hope to hear more about him.

 

[massraider]

Check out this Tweet from Jerry Mac:

BLTN Raiders practice notes: Not likely to come to pass, but idea has been floated within organization to move Ro-Mac outside, Goethel MLB

BLTN Raiders notes: Reasoning behind Ro-Mac, Goethel debate . . some feel Goethel better at taking on blockers, Ro-Mac better at angles.

 

[RaiderBones]

So reading through the camp reports (really glad Jerry Mac is still on the beat, even tho Corkran gets the more day-to-day stuff), Seems like Denarius Moore, Barksdale, and Ausberry are the best-looking newcomers. If they turn out to be good picks, just goes to show why come Draft Day, you need to be willing to withhold judgement a little bit. Not really favorites of Raider Nation initially, especially Barksdale. Read today that Barnes got some work at RT because Barksdale had been getting ALL the work. Interesting. Has he looked that good, or are the Raiders trying to fast-track him because they don't believe in Barnes? Maybe they just want to see what he has? Can't wait to watch him in the preseason. Glad we re-signed Bush, and I expect this to be his last season in Oakland. With DMC, Bush, and Taiwan, I hope we have the seen the last regular season carry of Michael Bennett. Goethel has been working at all three LB spots, I wonder if that means he ain't good enough for one of them, or if the Raiders are trying to find his best spot. They were pretty excited about him last summer, I hope to hear more about him.

Also been hearing good things about undrafted free agent rookie Sterling Moore DB. I don't know anything about the guy but its nice to have good competition from the DB position.

 

[kaso]

Looks like the Raiders signed Chad Jackson. Can't say I know much about him. I do remember him being an interesting prospect with NE drafted him...From Twitter:

David CarpenterCongratulations to DEC MANAGEMENT client WR Chad Jackson for agreeing to terms with the OAKLAND RAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIDDDDDDDEEEEEEERRRRRRRSSSSSS

 

[massraider]

Looks like the Raiders signed Chad Jackson. Can't say I know much about him. I do remember him being an interesting prospect with NE drafted him...From Twitter:

David CarpenterCongratulations to DEC MANAGEMENT client WR Chad Jackson for agreeing to terms with the OAKLAND RAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIDDDDDDDEEEEEEERRRRRRRSSSSSS

I give him almost a zero chance to make the team. Chaz, Lou, DHB, Ford, Moore......well, maybe if we carry 6. A UDFA WR, whose name escapes me, just blew an Achilles or a knee yesterday, so we need another camp body.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Also been hearing good things about undrafted free agent rookie Sterling Moore DB. I don't know anything about the guy but its nice to have good competition from the DB position.

UDFAs CB Sterling Moore and C/G Ben Lamaak are guys I'd like to see at least make the practice squad. Of course you have to worry about another team signing them. Sterling Moore was a shut down corner for SMU but missed time with a knee injury. If not for the injury he could have been a late round draft pick. He's from the Bay area and grew up a Raiders fan. Ben Lamaak played center, tackle, and guard at Iowa State. He was a TE and QB in high school and played basketball also. He went from a 250-pound freshman to a 320-pound fifth-year senior. Second team Big 12 center last year. Big, smart, athletic, and versatile.

 

[Raider Nation]

Is Zach still on deck?

 

[King of the Jungle]

Is Zach still on deck?

?

 

[Raider Nation]

Is Zach still on deck?

?

Subtitle.

 

[massraider]

Is Zach still on deck?

?

Subtitle.

Cripes, I didn't get it either. Changing now.

 

[Raider Nation]

Is Zach still on deck?

?

Subtitle.

Cripes, I didn't get it either. Changing now.

We need to look like we know what's going on. Raider fans get enough heat as it is.

 

[djmich]

Dynasty league, do you grab Moore or Schilens?

 

[FavreCo]

I'm super deep at WR. AJ, Calvin, Jennings Marshall. I grabbed Moore. Schilens was already on a team and I don't need him in the next few years. If you need a guy to start then maybe Schilens.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Smiley is better than Loper

I have no idea. And neither do you.

And now we'll never know. Smiley off of Raiders roster per P. Gutierrez tweet.ETA: Smiley retired. That's some tough camp that Hue Jackson puts on.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Raider loading up on WR bodies for Thursdays game against Arizona, sign former Patriot washout Chad Jackson and former NY Giant Derek Hagan. Hagan had a brief moment of fantasy relevance last year when Hakeem Nicks was down with his injury, but he never really had much impact as was hyped.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Practice Notes Day Ten

RB Darren McFadden joined WR Jacoby Ford on the exercise bikes to start off today’s practice. The Raiders had a bunch of players sidelined with injury. That’s part of the reason for the slew of scrub signings in recent days. Part of it is to put warm bodies on the field for the upcoming pre season opener against the Cardinals at home this Thursday. Our condolences to anyone who purchased pre season tickets this year.

Newly signed former Giant TE Kevin Boss suited up today for the first time. Boss was sporting the number #87 as opposed to his usual #89. That number is currently held by WR/KR Nick Miller. Rather than pay Miller for the rights to it, Boss will wait and see if it becomes available if Miller doesn't make the team. That’s our guess anyway.

RB Michael Bush ended his "hold out" and signed his one year $2.3 million dollar tender. It was good to see him in pads especially with Taiwan and DMC out but we love Rock Cartwright, and Louis Rankin more than filled in during their absence.

Denarius Moore looking like a draft steal yet again today. Excellent CB prospect DeMarcus Van Dyke has an NFL attitude. Much more is learned from failure than success and the better the competition, the sharper your skills. We hope he's hunting down Rod Woodson every chance he gets and peppering him with questions. Not every young DBs in the NFL will ever get that chance. In battle, it’s about exploiting opportunity. Hard to get much more exploitier than that. We hope all of Oakland’s young and rookie DBs take advantage of the Raiders uniquely stocked HOF Secondary Coaches.

Speaking of rookie DBs UDFA Sterling Moore is making a name for himself in camp. He, like everyone else, is getting burned by the other Moore in camp, WR Denarius, but is also making plays and keeping up stride for stride on some man coverage plays.

He's one to watch too.

Raiders with the day off tomorrow...

 

[RaiderBones]

Dynasty league, do you grab Moore or Schilens?

My guess is short term Schilens and long term Moore. If your deep at WR then I would take a chance and roll with Moore he sounds awsome in camp so far. If you need someone righ away then mayble lean towards Schilens. My personal preference would be to just roll with Moore.

 

[Dragon1952]

Dynasty league, do you grab Moore or Schilens?

I'm tired of grabbing Schilens and then dropping him later. Same with Donnie Avery. You can have them both. I'd rather take Moore.

 

[UnknownCoach]

And now we'll never know. Smiley off of Raiders roster per P. Gutierrez tweet.ETA: Smiley retired. That's some tough camp that Hue Jackson puts on.

*Veteran guard Justin Smiley decided he no longer has what it takes to grind it out every day in training camp and stand up to the rigors of a 16-game regular season. So, he walked into coach Jackson’s office Saturday, thanked him for the opportunity and called it a career after seven seasons with the 49ers, Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars.“What a man,” Jackson said. “He came in to see me today and said, ‘Coach, I just, this is just not for me right now.’ And I respect that. The great thing about this place is, I told you, this is hard work. Everybody can’t do this. If your mind and body is not ready to do this on a daily basis, it’s tough. And he said, ‘Coach, thanks for the opportunity, but my heart’s just not in it anymore, football. So, nothing against you or the Raiders, but I just can’t do this anymore.’ And I respect that.”

Sounds like he flat out quit his second day in camp. I like that Jackson is running a hard camp. Its too bad about Smiley. If we dont improve our guards its looking like Wiz could end up at LG with Satele playing C again this year. B Campbell needs to get on the field. We could bring in another vet but the pickings should be better later on. Then you got to worry about bringing in someone late who doesnt know the plays and team. Not the best situation right now. All that matters though is how it works out in the end. That's why you have training camp.

 

[Faust]

Raiders' Campbell ready to take the next step to stardom

By Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Analyst

Published: Aug. 8, 2011 at 06:16 a.m. Updated: Aug. 8, 2011 at 10:36 a.m.

This is the year Jason Campbell becomes a franchise quarterback.

While that statement will sound outlandish to those outside of Raider Nation, the collaboration of Hue Jackson and Al Saunders will finally allow the seventh-year pro to flourish as a starter.

Granted, optimism typically runs high when changes are made, but the marriage between the two offensive masterminds and Campbell appears to be a match made in heaven. The coaching duo share similar schematic philosophies for moving the ball, and the Raiders' signal caller is an ideal fit for the bombs-away attack they envision.

Saunders, a 27-year NFL coaching veteran, was hired by Jackson to serve as the Raiders' offensive coordinator after spending last season working as a consultant for the Baltimore Ravens. He is a Don Coryell disciple with a vast knowledge of the vertical game. As a highly respected architect with a keen knowledge of the passing game, he has orchestrated some of the most explosive offenses in league history, including the 2001-05 Kansas City Chiefs, who led the league in points, touchdowns and net yardage during that span.

As a play designer, Saunders loves to incorporate a variety of pre-snap motions, shifts and formations to keep defenses off-balance. The utilization of movement is designed to test the discipline of the coverage, and exploit blown assignments or hesitant defenders unsure of their responsibilities.

Jackson, however, will remain the play caller on game day, and the team will build upon the momentum created by the offense's strong showing a season ago. The Raiders finished sixth in scoring offense with 410 points, more than double their output from the previous season. While Jackson relied heavily on their second-ranked rush offense, the unit showed flashes of being explosive in the passing game.

The Raiders ranked fifth in the league with 12 passes of 40-plus yards and the continued development of Jacoby Ford, Louis Murphy and Darrius Heyward-Bey could lead to more big plays in 2011.

Saunders and Jackson are not only highly respected for their overall offensive acumen, but they are lauded for their ability to groom receivers. Under Jackson's tutelage in Cincinnati from 2004-06, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ochocinco became one of the most prolific receiving tandems in the league, and each topped the 1,000-yard mark in his final season.

In St. Louis, Saunders developed a dynamic receiving corps -- Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Ricky Proehl and Az-Zahir Hakim -- as part of the "Greatest Show on Turf," and also tutored an explosive crew of receivers for "Air Coryell" in San Diego.

Given the vast knowledge and expertise of the Raiders' offensive architects, Campbell should post big numbers in his second season at the helm in Oakland. For one of the few times in his career, he gets to play in the same scheme for the second straight year and that allows him to build upon the momentum he created at the end of the season. During the Raiders' final five games, Campbell completed 64.7 percent of his passes with six touchdowns and only two interceptions for an impressive 94.6 passer rating.

With Saunders coming over to add a few more wrinkles to the offensive approach, Campbell's game is certain to reach a new level in 2011. That optimism is fueled by the familiarity between the pupil and student (Saunders was offensive coordinator of the Washington Redskins for two of Campbell's first three years in Washington), and the growth of the signal caller since that point.

Campbell has shown steady improvement over the course of his career from an accuracy and decision-making standpoint, and his willingness to take more chances down the field has resulted in his yards-per-attempt average improving each season.

He is a strong-armed thrower with above-average touch and accuracy. He shines on intermediate throws, but is very capable of making pinpoint tosses down the field. He routinely throws in rhythm when working off play-action or conventional drops, and his timing allows him to lead receivers into open windows.

Given the Raiders' desire to implement more rhythm and vertical throws into the game plan, Campbell's numbers should go through the roof this season.

The Raiders have set their sights squarely on making the postseason in 2011, and the play of their quarterback will go a long way toward making that happen. With a pair of masterminds intent on building their offense around his game, Campbell will finally prove he is worthy of putting a franchise on his back.

 

[Faust]

Raiders camp report: Jackson raising team's expectations

By Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Analyst

Published: Aug. 6, 2011 at 03:47 p.m. Updated: Aug. 6, 2011 at 04:19 p.m.

Observation deck

1. There is a buzz surrounding the Raiders' camp, and it's coming directly from the confidence, energy and enthusiasm of Hue Jackson. The rookie head coach has set the bar high for his team, and he has been unrelenting in his approach to get his guys to think and act like champions. Jackson spent most of practice loudly encouraging and challenging his players to compete and finish drills with zest. His reinforcement of the fundamentals is a welcomed sight for a team that has tried to win solely on the basis of its talent for years.

2. The Raiders' offense will build upon the momentum created at the end of last season to rank as one of the league's best units in 2011.2. The Raiders' offense will build upon the momentum created at the end of last season to rank as one of the league's best units in 2011. That's saying a lot considering Oakland finished sixth in the league in scoring and ranked second in rushing offense in Jackson's first season as offensive coordinator. The addition of Al Saunders, however, will help the unit reach new heights due to extensive knowledge of the vertical passing game. He spent his formative years in the NFL working under Don Coryell, and he will certainly incorporate some of those principles into the Raiders' playbook. Saunders also is familiar with Jason Campbell after serving his offensive coordinator at Washington. Given their pre-existing relationship, the chemistry between play-caller and quarterback should help the offense get off to a fast start.

3. The Raiders' defensive line is the best in the league. Richard Seymour and Tommy Kelly are absolute monsters in the middle, and their ability to dominate the interior will give opponents problems. Kamerion Wimbley is undersized by prototypical standards, but his speed, athleticism and rush skills are impressive as a situational rusher. Also, keep your eye on defensive end Lamarr Houston. The second-year pro has the potential to be a stud as a base end due to his combination of size, strength and agility.

4. Nnamdi Asomugha's departure might force the Raiders to run more zone coverage. While that thought is almost blasphemous in Oakland, Stanford Routt and Chris Johnson could struggle holding up extensively in man-to-man coverage without consistent safety help. Routt, in particular, is not a classic No. 1 corner capable of locking down elite receivers, and opponents could have success relentlessly attacking his side. Although he is a talented athlete coming off the best season of his career, he has been up and down throughout camp and looked nothing like a cover man in the mold of his predecessor.

5. The Raiders might have discovered a viable replacement for Zach Miller in rookie David Ausberry. The former USC receiver has been sensational at camp, and his athleticism makes him a matchup nightmare in space. While he is still learning the nuances of blocking as a tight end following a collegiate career as a receiver, he is a potential weapon in the passing game as an H-Back, and the coaching staff has been beaming about his play through the first week of practice.

6. Hue Jackson still hasn't figured out how the Raiders' offensive line situation will play out, but he isn't afraid to experiment with various combinations to find the right fit. The team has kept Jared Veldheer primarily at left tackle, with Khalif Barnes and Joseph Barksdale battling at right tackle. Cooper Carlisle, Justin Smiley, Stefen Wisniewski, and Samson Satele have been rotated among the interior three spots, with Wisniewski and Satele sharing snaps at center. Bruce Campbell, a second-year pro expected to vie for a starting spot at guard, hasn't practiced to date due to an injury and will have a tough time cracking the lineup given his extended absence.

New guy to watch

Denarius Moore has opened eyes at camp with his speed and playmaking ability. He has repeatedly gotten free against the No. 1 defense, and a penchant for making acrobatic catches in a crowd has made him a favorite target of Raiders quarterbacks. Although the team loves its young corps of receivers, Moore is well on his way to working into the rotation as a third or fourth receiver.

Overheard

Hue Jackson yelling to the defense after watching Moore make a series of remarkable catches during a team drill: "Mama, there goes that man again!"

Prediction

The Raiders haven't been to the playoffs in eight years, but they assembled a talented roster that makes them viable contenders this season. Their schedule features a pair of AFC heavyweights in the New York Jets and New England Patriots in the opening month, but the rest of the slate is manageable for the Silver and Black. If they can quickly resolve their offensive line issues, there is no reason why the Raiders can't make a run at the postseason in Jackson's first year. A 9-7 record will certainly keep them in the hunt.

 

[massraider]

Raiders' Campbell ready to take the next step to stardom

By Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Analyst

Published: Aug. 8, 2011 at 06:16 a.m. Updated: Aug. 8, 2011 at 10:36 a.m.

This is the year Jason Campbell becomes a franchise quarterback.

Bucky Brooks= A decent article on our O-line battles:

- Sixteen players. Steel cage match. The five men who walk out get to start on the offensive line for the Raiders.

Oakland head coach Hue Jackson hasn't gone that far yet, but he has been telling the linemen at training camp that there is wide-open competition. One might take that as a bad sign for such important jobs - keeping the quarterback upright and tacklers out of running backs' way - but Jackson has confidence in line coach Bob Wylie's ability to build bullies.

"We have infused that group with a lot of different types of bodies, players, attitudes, and now we're going to put this thing together," Jackson said. "We have a chance to have a really, really good offensive line. I think our coaches are doing great.

"We have a lot of young talent with (Stefen) Wisniewski and (Joe) Barksdale and then you take some of those veteran guys like (Cooper) Carlisle, Khalif Barnes, and then (Jared) Veldheer who is in his second year in the league. ... I'm excited about that group."

There were 17 linemen in camp, but former 49ers guard Justin Smiley, 29, retired Saturday.

So that's one name off guard Roy Schuening's list, if he had a hit list. The 27-year-old Oregon State alum, who played one game for the Rams in 2008 before spending 2009 on the Raiders' practice squad, has learned to have tunnel vision when it comes to camp competitions.

"You can't sit there and think about it," said the 6-foot-3, 315-pounder, who got some first-team snaps on the right side last week. "You can't count guys in the locker room. You can't look at a guy like Cooper, who has 12 years experience, and worry about that. Keep your head in your (play) book and keep pushing forward."

The left side of the line appears to be set with Veldheer at tackle and Daniel Loper at guard. Loper played well in his four starts for the injured Robert Gallery (now with Seattle) a year ago.

The right side is the most wide-open. At guard, many thought Carlisle was going to be cut as owner Al Davis favors Bruce Campbell after the second-year player was used sparingly by head coach Tom Cable last season. Campbell has been out with a knee injury, and Carlisle has split time with Schuening and even Wisniewski lately.

Wisniewski, the Raiders' second-round pick, was slated to be the starting center, but now is competing with re-signed Samson Satele, last year's starter. The loser could start at right guard. "I'm going to let these moving pieces unfold," Jackson said. Wisniewski is "one of our better linemen, there's no question about that."

At right tackle, Barksdale, a third-round pick, has held up well, especially considering he and Wisniewski didn't have any offseason workouts or classroom time with the coaches because of the lockout. Barksdale will be pushed by Barnes, a six-year veteran, and Stephon Heyer, whom the Raiders signed away from the Redskins for $1.7 million last week.

Heyer, a 6-6, 332-pounder, started 33 games for the Redskins the past four years, and he is getting snaps at guard and tackle in Napa.

"Wherever they plug me, I'm just gonna sling, sling, punch and sling and push people back as hard as I can to get a shot or to get a starting spot or just a job on this team," Heyer said.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/07/SPG21KJEM4.DTL&feed=rss.raiders&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitterRight side of the line is going to be worth watching the entire preseason. Can't wait to catch the replay on NFLN.

 

[LawFitz]

Not a fan of Hue as a HC

No? He's been pretty successful jumping around and moving up the coaching ranks quickly. He has an energy that players and other coaches seem to respond to and he seems organized and capable when it comes to creating a modern offense.Last season, his first as OC, he helped turn the offense from consistent joke to #6. And that was with a very slow start as the team attempted to gel and find a QB. Campbell actually looked half decent by the end of the season under Jackson. I'm pretty optimistic about Hue. Here's a sample of his style.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0GreQKZZwQ&feature=player_embedded

 

[Raider Nation]

Love the article on Campbell. I'm going to keep my expectations reasonable, but I am optimistic.

Saunders is getting old, but I'm sure Hue wouldn't have hired him if he wasn't on top of his game.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Practice Notes Day Twelve

Even with an emphasis on RB Darren McFadden and new TE Kevin Boss, none of will make a difference unless Oakland slaps together an O line and fast.

Second round draft pick and Raider legacy Stephen Wisniewski has been suspiciously quiet throughout camp and was seen playing guard a few times so far this camp. Today he was at Center mostly, where last year’s recent re-signee Samson Satele has been of late.

We hope that’s a good sign.

Wiz 2.0 also slid over to the Left Guard slot in place of Daniel Loper during this session. A bad sign for Coach Hue Jackson was his selection of neon shoes. RB Michael Bennett had some on last week. Rumor is Coach lost a bet.

Today’s walking wounded list included Safety Mike Mitchell, OT Bruce Campbell, RB Darren McFadden, WR Louis Murphy, DB Chimdi Chekwa and WR Jacoby Ford.

Speaking of WRs rookie Denarius Moore has been stellar throughout camp and we're very glad he looked less than stellar fielding punts. That would be a waste.

RB Michael Bush is set to make an impact. Clearly he's in the best shape of his life which is fortunate because it just happens to be a contract year.

We think DE Jarvis Moss is quietly poised to wreak havoc. He's finally healthy, keeping his pads low and acting with aggression.

He smacked back up TE Brandon Myers a couple of times but no response from Myers.

Let’s see what would happen if Moss shoved Boss...

Let’s not forget about WR Chaz Schilens. He hasn't been healthy since a broken foot his senior year of College. Rehab went wrong but after two years and ill informed fans calling for his release, the former San Diego State star is finally healthy enough to show the world what Oakland and we, have known for years.

He's really good.

People forget the 6-4, 225 lb WR ran a 4.33 40.

H/W/S...

He looked good hauling in a deep sideline pass today and has looked good throughout camp.

Darius Heyward Bey has not.

Again the pricey Wide Receiver sits out of camp with another mystery injury. We hope he's all right but if 5th round pick Denarius Moore and 7th round pick Schilens out shine him Al and Bey will hear about it.

In his first real practice of the year Bey caught a beautiful post pattern in stride. Then again, later in the session, Campbell hit Bey for big yards over the middle but veteran CB Chris Johnson popped the ball out which was alertly scooped up by Defensive Back DeMarcus Van Dyke.

Van Dyke's struggled in coverage a couple of times and that’s expected. He's a project who'll be allowed to grow. We think he could be a good one. He snagged his second pick of camp so far today.

QB Jason Campbell laughed off rumors about a groin strain and was rested one practice after throwing a lot earlier in camp. After a day off yesterday, Oakland let him air it out down field.

It looked good.

The leading scorer in Oakland Raider history finally booted some field goals at this year’s camp and with that, three horns sounded and the day was done.

 

[UnknownCoach]

The cornerback competition isnt producing any clear cut winners.

Chris Johnson, our nickel corner last year is the best corner so far in camp - this is not hopeful news as Johnson is already 31 years old.

Routt, who signed a huge contract, has not looked the part.

W McFadden hasnt taken any big steps so far in his second year.

Ware, also in his second year, is looking like a loser in the battle for roster spots.

Van Dyke has shown potential but his rookie rawness is obvious.

Chekwa popped his shoulder at the beginning of camp and has been on the sidelines. In the roster competition, he's becoming a PUP/IR candidate.

S Moore, an undrafted rookie now has a real shot at making the team.

We are going to really miss Asomugha this year. We might be seeing a lot of Huff/Branch playing nickel with Mitchell on the field.

 

[massraider]

I am really not sweating the CB position. We always seem to find them.

I'd be more worried if I wasn't so excited about our D-line, which is the first time I have thought that since McGlockton/Russell.

Tough to not get ahead of myself on Denarius Moore, but I am pretty dang excited. Our beat writers aren't the type to overhype players in camp. They are pretty fair. And we haven't heard chatter about a new player like this since DMC.

Paul Gutirrez talking Raider football here at 4:45 Pacific time: http://www.kpft.org/

No idea how the streaming works, guess I will find out then.

 

[gbill2004]

Jacoby Ford and Darrius Heyward-Bey are listed as the starting receivers on the Raiders' first depth chart of training camp.Coach Hue Jackson talked up Ford all offseason, and he's backed it up by placing the explosive second-year breakout candidate atop the depth chart. As soon as Ford recovers from a broken hand, he will start outside and likely move to the slot in three-wide sets. Louis Murphy and Chaz Schilens are backing up DHB and Ford respectively. Training camp sensation Denarius Moore could move quickly behind Heyward-Bey and Murphy.

 

[massraider]

The starters have been tweeted:

(Doing this from memory)

Campbell

DMC

Reece

DHB

Ford

Boss (or maybe it was Myers)

Veldheer

Loper

Satele

Carlisle

Barnes

Houston

Kelly

Seymour

Shaugnessy

Wim

Ro

Groves

Johnson

Routt

Branch

Huff

No surprises.