*** 2013 Oakland Raiders thread *** (1 Viewer)

[massraider]

Reading the news, it is comical that anyone has a problem with cutting Huff. I have been a supporter since he was drafted, btw.

But safeties don't get big money. If they do, they get cut in a few years. Look at the free agents out there. Wilson, Rhodes, Gholdson, Pollard, Reed. Good vets every year are available.

 

[massraider]

Vic Tafur ‏@VicTafur

Splash. Raiders sign three unrestricted free agents -- DE Jason Hunter, LB Kaluka Maiava and DT Pat Sims

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Vic Tafur ‏@VicTafur

Splash. Raiders sign three unrestricted free agents -- DE Jason Hunter, LB Kaluka Maiava and DT Pat Sims

From Rotoworld:Kaluka Maiava - LB - Raiders

Raiders signed OLB Kaluka Maiava, formerly of the Browns, to a three-year, $6 million contract.

The Raiders are beginning the arduous task of remaking their decimated front seven. A 13-game starter for the 2012 Browns, Maiava finished with 53 tackles, two sacks and two forced fumbles. He graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 7 4-3 outside linebacker, but played just 498 snaps. He will be a starter in Oakland.

I assume this is an upgrade over that POS McClain(?)

 

[massraider]

Vic Tafur ‏@VicTafur

Splash. Raiders sign three unrestricted free agents -- DE Jason Hunter, LB Kaluka Maiava and DT Pat Sims

From Rotoworld:Kaluka Maiava - LB - Raiders

Raiders signed OLB Kaluka Maiava, formerly of the Browns, to a three-year, $6 million contract.

The Raiders are beginning the arduous task of remaking their decimated front seven. A 13-game starter for the 2012 Browns, Maiava finished with 53 tackles, two sacks and two forced fumbles. He graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 7 4-3 outside linebacker, but played just 498 snaps. He will be a starter in Oakland.

I assume this is an upgrade over that POS McClain(?)

Think he is Wheeler's replacement.Who signed a massive deal in MIA. No way the Raiders should have offered that. Fins will be cutting Wheeler for cap purposes in a year or so.

 

[Garrett]

Holy, I forgot about Walker. Ugh....

How about that massive contract DeAngelo Hall got from Al?

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Holy, I forgot about Walker. Ugh....

How about that massive contract DeAngelo Hall got from Al?

And the beat goes on. The take away, ads I have repeatedly said. is that Al got us into the mess. It is gonna take awhile to get out.

 

[ICON211]

Maybe Al Davis had it right. Maybe he was smart to never blow it up. Maybe he knew that if he ever admitted his team wasn't just one player away, the fans would revolt. I am personally excited to see the cuts. Huff wasn't worth the deal, dhb sure wasn't, and I hope Kelly is next, that fat smack talker. Why wait to cut these guys next year? so we have dead cap money left over from the long-dead Al Davis next year as well? Nah, I will take my medicine now please. All of it. It's not giving up. it is correcting wrongs. Be smarter than the average fan. Those contracts will only look worse,next year. And after we go 6-10, or 7-9, everyone will say, why didn't we cut these guys last year?

What I do not get is why this did not happen last year if this was the plan. It was kind of halfway done last year. And why restructure any contracts this year spreading the cap hit over future years?

 

[Vision6]

We're getting Clowney

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Maybe Al Davis had it right. Maybe he was smart to never blow it up. Maybe he knew that if he ever admitted his team wasn't just one player away, the fans would revolt. I am personally excited to see the cuts. Huff wasn't worth the deal, dhb sure wasn't, and I hope Kelly is next, that fat smack talker. Why wait to cut these guys next year? so we have dead cap money left over from the long-dead Al Davis next year as well? Nah, I will take my medicine now please. All of it. It's not giving up. it is correcting wrongs. Be smarter than the average fan. Those contracts will only look worse,next year. And after we go 6-10, or 7-9, everyone will say, why didn't we cut these guys last year?

What I do not get is why this did not happen last year if this was the plan. It was kind of halfway done last year. And why restructure any contracts this year spreading the cap hit over future years?

I think it was a combination of things. The cap hit would have been much worse, and Reggie/Allen wanted to make their own evaluations of the players up close. IMO it is much better to take time and make the correct decision on each player.Now when the hell does the other shoe fall with Palmer and Kelly?

 

[UnknownCoach]

Kaluka Maiava played on the weakside which looks like his natural position. That's where Burris played last year and Curry and Groves before him. I'm not sure the weakside is Burris's best position. I think its most likely Maiava plays the weakside and Burris moves either to the strongside where Wheeler played or even possibly to the middle.

 

[UnknownCoach]

What I do not get is why this did not happen last year if this was the plan. It was kind of halfway done last year. And why restructure any contracts this year spreading the cap hit over future years?

It was a half effort to bring back the team that had nearly made the playoffs in 2011. I believe in McKenzie's heart he wanted to completely rebuild the team and that's why the effort was too weak to put a winner on the field in 2012. The Knapp decision was Allen's fault and that was a big part of it also. Signing and relying on injured veterans like Brisiel, Bartell, and Spencer ultimately falls on McKenzie regardless of the recomendations of Knapp, Allen, and the medical staff. The decision to part with Routt and Wimbley was all McKenzie. Tollefson was another McKenzie mistake. McKenzie was slow to sign guys and his patience eventually led to better signings after camp was nearly over but by that time it was way too late to save the season.

 

[Raider Nation]

Honest question: Could you guys deal with a 1-15 or 2-14 season if it means having Clowney in Silver & Black for 8-10 years?

I would love to see Clowney in Silver and Black. However, if the Raiders are that bad next season I would think they would take a serious look at QB's next year in the draft if the Raiders don't draft one this year. Unless Pryor does start eventually and does look good doing it then that could change everything, then Clowney would be AWESOME.

Unless there is another Peyton Manning or Andrew Luck staring at them, you don't pass on the best defensive prospect in forever...

 

[kaso]

Rebuild mode doesn't mean a one offseason or two offseason turn around unfortunately. Not for the team that McKenzie took over. McKenzie was part of an organization on GB that could best be described as stable year over year over year. I fully believe that McKenzie is using what he learned through his previous roles to build that constancy in Oakland.

Have there been mistakes, sure that argument could be made. But I think there have been wins as well.

Mistakes have been documented here - Huff's contract, Briesel's deal, Knapp....

Wins - the drafting of Burris, one year deals to fill the holes while dealing with the contract mess, the release of DHB, Huff

We cannot ignore the mess that McKenzie took on. For years players were signed to horrible contracts and brought in because of their speed, or their big name,instead of how they could improve the team. Wiithout continuing to throw out huge money at FA's, the Raiders need to prove the organization is headed in the right direction. They need to prove that the program is running with purpose.

Honestly, what do you think the Raiders would have had to pay to land the services of Welker right now? Or Wallace?

I'm not happy that we lost out on Bryant and Wheeler? Nope. Because I know the Raiders will field a lesser product next season with their departures. But at this moment I do believe that it was a good move not to offer the same contracts they received. No need to load up the cap number in 2014, 2015, or 2016 if McKenzies plan is to run thin cap wise to truly reset.

I'm going to hate 2013. But I'm still on the Raider bus, and think this is a means to the correct the last 12 years.

 

[Raider Nation]

Is there a mercy rule in the NFL? Denver may beat us 73-10 twice this year.

(This is my last Negative Nancy post until September) ...

 

[LawFitz]

if we cut Palmer, and I am not sure I want to, I am in favor of a Fitzpatrick signing.

I would only be in favor of this if the org is absolutely convinced that Pryor isn't ready for a shot and that giving him one would hinder his growth. Otherwise, trial by fire and iron sharpens iron and all that.

 

[LawFitz]

Finally we sign a 1-technique DT in Sims! Just gotta hope he can stay healthy, but he's the type of player we've needed for years. Last time we had a true run stuffer at DT was extremely old, but still effective Ted Washington during our Superbowl run a decade ago. Why it took ten years to sign another one is beyond me. And please don't mention TURDell Sands.

Sims at 1-tech and Houston at his natural 3-tech could actually prove to be very productive. Heck, even Kelly is a solid 3-tech, and was totally misused in his prime playing the 1-tech spot. There's been so much misuse of DL talent on this team the last ten years, it's ridiculous (Seymour is best as a 5-tech 3-4 DE, not a 3-tech 4-3 DT!!!). Hopefully this is a sign that's changing.

And Sims can even play 0-tech (aka Nose Tackle) meaning we might finally see some formationally versatility between 4-3 and 3-4 alignments, like every other modern NFL defense.

 

[One]

Rebuild mode doesn't mean a one offseason or two offseason turn around unfortunately. Not for the team that McKenzie took over. McKenzie was part of an organization on GB that could best be described as stable year over year over year. I fully believe that McKenzie is using what he learned through his previous roles to build that constancy in Oakland. Have there been mistakes, sure that argument could be made. But I think there have been wins as well. Mistakes have been documented here - Huff's contract, Briesel's deal, Knapp....Wins - the drafting of Burris, one year deals to fill the holes while dealing with the contract mess, the release of DHB, HuffWe cannot ignore the mess that McKenzie took on. For years players were signed to horrible contracts and brought in because of their speed, or their big name,instead of how they could improve the team. Wiithout continuing to throw out huge money at FA's, the Raiders need to prove the organization is headed in the right direction. They need to prove that the program is running with purpose. Honestly, what do you think the Raiders would have had to pay to land the services of Welker right now? Or Wallace? I'm not happy that we lost out on Bryant and Wheeler? Nope. Because I know the Raiders will field a lesser product next season with their departures. But at this moment I do believe that it was a good move not to offer the same contracts they received. No need to load up the cap number in 2014, 2015, or 2016 if McKenzies plan is to run thin cap wise to truly reset. I'm going to hate 2013. But I'm still on the Raider bus, and think this is a means to the correct the last 12 years.

Great post. I've been waiting for years for Al and his aftermath to be pushed aside, leveled, then rebuilt. It's gonna hurt before it gets better. We'll be better for it in the long run.

 

[Bruno2]

Rebuild mode doesn't mean a one offseason or two offseason turn around unfortunately. Not for the team that McKenzie took over. McKenzie was part of an organization on GB that could best be described as stable year over year over year. I fully believe that McKenzie is using what he learned through his previous roles to build that constancy in Oakland. Have there been mistakes, sure that argument could be made. But I think there have been wins as well. Mistakes have been documented here - Huff's contract, Briesel's deal, Knapp....Wins - the drafting of Burris, one year deals to fill the holes while dealing with the contract mess, the release of DHB, HuffWe cannot ignore the mess that McKenzie took on. For years players were signed to horrible contracts and brought in because of their speed, or their big name,instead of how they could improve the team. Wiithout continuing to throw out huge money at FA's, the Raiders need to prove the organization is headed in the right direction. They need to prove that the program is running with purpose. Honestly, what do you think the Raiders would have had to pay to land the services of Welker right now? Or Wallace? I'm not happy that we lost out on Bryant and Wheeler? Nope. Because I know the Raiders will field a lesser product next season with their departures. But at this moment I do believe that it was a good move not to offer the same contracts they received. No need to load up the cap number in 2014, 2015, or 2016 if McKenzies plan is to run thin cap wise to truly reset. I'm going to hate 2013. But I'm still on the Raider bus, and think this is a means to the correct the last 12 years.

Great post. I've been waiting for years for Al and his aftermath to be pushed aside, leveled, then rebuilt. It's gonna hurt before it gets better. We'll be better for it in the long run.

This is the only way to do it... The Super Bowl champs just lost half their defense in two days... I know, I know they are a slightly better franchise right now. The key is replacing these losses and rebuilding with better players.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

Pretty bad so far. I had dreams of Krueger or ellerbee but I knew those were dreams. I'll reserve judgement until the roster is set But this #### looks painful.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Finally we sign a 1-technique DT in Sims! Just gotta hope he can stay healthy, but he's the type of player we've needed for years. Last time we had a true run stuffer at DT was extremely old, but still effective Ted Washington during our Superbowl run a decade ago. Why it took ten years to sign another one is beyond me. And please don't mention TURDell Sands.Sims at 1-tech and Houston at his natural 3-tech could actually prove to be very productive. Heck, even Kelly is a solid 3-tech, and was totally misused in his prime playing the 1-tech spot. There's been so much misuse of DL talent on this team the last ten years, it's ridiculous (Seymour is best as a 5-tech 3-4 DE, not a 3-tech 4-3 DT!!!). Hopefully this is a sign that's changing.And Sims can even play 0-tech (aka Nose Tackle) meaning we might finally see some formationally versatility between 4-3 and 3-4 alignments, like every other modern NFL defense.

Henderson was better than Sims. Even though he wasnt listed as a starter, he constantly rotated in the game. We've only been without a big run stuffer for one season.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Kaluka Maiava played on the weakside which looks like his natural position. That's where Burris played last year and Curry and Groves before him. I'm not sure the weakside is Burris's best position. I think its most likely Maiava plays the weakside and Burris moves either to the strongside where Wheeler played or even possibly to the middle.

LB Dan Conner is coming in for a visit. This reaffirms that Burris is most likely going to replace Wheeler on the strongside. Unless we draft Jones that is.

 

[kaso]

Rebuild mode doesn't mean a one offseason or two offseason turn around unfortunately. Not for the team that McKenzie took over. McKenzie was part of an organization on GB that could best be described as stable year over year over year. I fully believe that McKenzie is using what he learned through his previous roles to build that constancy in Oakland. Have there been mistakes, sure that argument could be made. But I think there have been wins as well. Mistakes have been documented here - Huff's contract, Briesel's deal, Knapp....Wins - the drafting of Burris, one year deals to fill the holes while dealing with the contract mess, the release of DHB, HuffWe cannot ignore the mess that McKenzie took on. For years players were signed to horrible contracts and brought in because of their speed, or their big name,instead of how they could improve the team. Wiithout continuing to throw out huge money at FA's, the Raiders need to prove the organization is headed in the right direction. They need to prove that the program is running with purpose. Honestly, what do you think the Raiders would have had to pay to land the services of Welker right now? Or Wallace? I'm not happy that we lost out on Bryant and Wheeler? Nope. Because I know the Raiders will field a lesser product next season with their departures. But at this moment I do believe that it was a good move not to offer the same contracts they received. No need to load up the cap number in 2014, 2015, or 2016 if McKenzies plan is to run thin cap wise to truly reset. I'm going to hate 2013. But I'm still on the Raider bus, and think this is a means to the correct the last 12 years.

Great post. I've been waiting for years for Al and his aftermath to be pushed aside, leveled, then rebuilt. It's gonna hurt before it gets better. We'll be better for it in the long run.

This is the only way to do it... The Super Bowl champs just lost half their defense in two days... I know, I know they are a slightly better franchise right now. The key is replacing these losses and rebuilding with better players.

Thanks. It's hard not to be bothered/concerned with the moves or lack there of, if looking at the immediate ability to win in 2013. The moves become more managable, acceptable, understood, if looking at the long term benefit to the organization.I think McKenzie is doing the best he can, to have what would equal a dynasty fantasy football team fire sale, but with a real life team. He is trying to reset while still meeting the needs of running a football organization, and has to be concerned with (some of) the needs of the fan base. To me, putting the tarps on the upper deck is a clear sign that the ownership is bought into the long term plan for this organization. And that is far more important then some FA signing in March to show where this organization is potentially headed.

 

[Henry Ford]

How do the Raider fans view DHB being cut from a fantasy perspective? Streater gets the bump? Moore? No one because there's no real consensus on who will be QB next year?

 

[Garrett]

I'm a huge fan of not building through free agency. There is so much better value to be had through the draft and using cap space to retain your own players before they ever reach the last year of their contract.

When you bring in a free agent, you are paying a premium for that player in relation to there actual value. From a macro level, you are paying more than 31 other teams are willing to pay for that same player.

 

[UnknownCoach]

How do the Raider fans view DHB being cut from a fantasy perspective? Streater gets the bump? Moore? No one because there's no real consensus on who will be QB next year?

DHB was never Palmer's favorite target. Assuming we dont sign a veteran starter, Moore and Streater are the favorites to start. I wont rule out Ford as a starter but he likely goes back to the slot. Criner and anyone else we get will have the opportunity to compete with none of the big 3 positions being firmly established.

 

[UnknownCoach]

I'm a huge fan of not building through free agency. There is so much better value to be had through the draft and using cap space to retain your own players before they ever reach the last year of their contract. When you bring in a free agent, you are paying a premium for that player in relation to there actual value. From a macro level, you are paying more than 31 other teams are willing to pay for that same player.

Gruden built with veterans. You cant build without signing FAs in this age. Back then though rookie salaries were getting out of control. High draft picks are much more valuable today because they arent killing the salary cap. We just unloaded all our old first round picks (McClain will be gone before June 2nd) in large part because of the salaries that came with those picks. Now first round picks are back on the table but you still cant build without adding veterans. Our biggest problem now is that we arent very attractive to veterans. In order to change that attitude we might have to hit on some big time rookies.

 

[Faust]

Oakland Raiders all in on elimination of 'Tuck Rule'

 

[Raiderfan32904]

I'm a huge fan of not building through free agency. There is so much better value to be had through the draft and using cap space to retain your own players before they ever reach the last year of their contract. When you bring in a free agent, you are paying a premium for that player in relation to there actual value. From a macro level, you are paying more than 31 other teams are willing to pay for that same player.

Gruden built with veterans.

Case in point. Gruden inherited a well stocked team talent wise from Tony Dungy and won a Super Bowl. That was a team stocked with home grown talent for the most part and developed under Dungy. All Gruden (and Bruce Allen) did after winning the Super Bowl was bad draft after bad draft and bad free agent signing after bad free agent signing. Gruden ironically disproves your point. I agree with Garret. We have to rebuild with homegrown players and keep the shelves stocked by resigning our own before they hit UFA status. Free agency is only meant to fill specific holes for players that meet narrow roles in schemes that coaches want to dabble in. The core of the team is built on younger players developed thru coaching and seasoning.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

Raiders bring in Nick Roach from BearsPosted by Darin Gantt on March 15, 2013, 8:14 AM EDT Bears linebacker Nick Roach might have found a chance to play in the middle, for a team with a need there.According to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, Roach has agreed to join the Raiders.He looked good in a four-game stint replacing Brian Urlacher, and there’s probably a vacancy inside with the Raiders, since they’re expected to release Rolando McClain.Roach fits with the profile of good, solid players the Raiders have brought in, though they don’t have the kind of cap room to make major changes.

Looks like we have our new MIKE LB, Nick Roach. From what I've heard looks like a decent signing. Goodbye Ro McClain.

 

[Raider Nation]

These mock drafts from Kiper, CBS Sports, Walter Football, etc. are all over the place, but many of them have Cooper going ahead of Warmack. And in some cases, WAY before Warmack. I wonder if he interviewed poorly at the combine.

 

[UnknownCoach]

These mock drafts from Kiper, CBS Sports, Walter Football, etc. are all over the place, but many of them have Cooper going ahead of Warmack. And in some cases, WAY before Warmack. I wonder if he interviewed poorly at the combine.

Warmack just had a pro day. I havent heard of anything negative outside his 40 time and verticle leap. A lot of these mockers downgraded players who didnt work out at the combine. Warmack went through more drills at his pro day but didnt bench press. I dont know if he didnt bench because of his long arms or maybe he's nursing a minor injury. He hasnt shown a ton of athleticism but he's still everything you want in a power blocking guard. Remember we took the #1 zone blocking guard prospect in last year's draft at the very end of the third round. So I dont buy that a true zone blocking team wants Cooper or any other guard in the first round. The very top of the draft still isnt clear but I would expect Cooper to go in the bottum half of round 1 and Warmack in the top half. The buzz around Warmack is quieting but I still consider him the safest pick in this draft. He wont get picked before Joekel or some of the other prospects but that's because he's a guard, not because he isnt worthy. Oakland is showing interest in a number of cheap FA guards. With the return of Brisiel I dont really expect to address the guard position in the draft as badly as I'd like to see Warmack here. We'll probably either use Bergstrom or sign a veteran to fill that LG spot. Though Bergstrom could very well end up at right tackle. On the bench we have Parsons and Nix already so we really just need one starter. However if we can somehow trade down and Warmack is still available we should definately pull that trigger. Cooper would be nice if we end up with a late first round pick but Cooper isnt the best guard prospect in over a decade.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Looks like we have our new MIKE LB, Nick Roach. From what I've heard looks like a decent signing. Goodbye Ro McClain.

McKenzie must really like him if the contract rumors are accurate. If there is a position the former NFL linebacker McKenzie seems to have a good eye for its linebackers. He gave Roach a much bigger contract than he gave Wheeler. I'm not sure if Roach is going to play in the middle or on the strongside. He has more experience on the outside but did replace Urlacher for a few games in the middle. They could move Burris in the middle and it might not be settled until training camp.

 

[Bruno2]

These mock drafts from Kiper, CBS Sports, Walter Football, etc. are all over the place, but many of them have Cooper going ahead of Warmack. And in some cases, WAY before Warmack. I wonder if he interviewed poorly at the combine.

Warmack just had a pro day. I havent heard of anything negative outside his 40 time and verticle leap. A lot of these mockers downgraded players who didnt work out at the combine. Warmack went through more drills at his pro day but didnt bench press. I dont know if he didnt bench because of his long arms or maybe he's nursing a minor injury. He hasnt shown a ton of athleticism but he's still everything you want in a power blocking guard. Remember we took the #1 zone blocking guard prospect in last year's draft at the very end of the third round. So I dont buy that a true zone blocking team wants Cooper or any other guard in the first round. The very top of the draft still isnt clear but I would expect Cooper to go in the bottum half of round 1 and Warmack in the top half. The buzz around Warmack is quieting but I still consider him the safest pick in this draft. He wont get picked before Joekel or some of the other prospects but that's because he's a guard, not because he isnt worthy. Oakland is showing interest in a number of cheap FA guards. With the return of Brisiel I dont really expect to address the guard position in the draft as badly as I'd like to see Warmack here. We'll probably either use Bergstrom or sign a veteran to fill that LG spot. Though Bergstrom could very well end up at right tackle. On the bench we have Parsons and Nix already so we really just need one starter. However if we can somehow trade down and Warmack is still available we should definately pull that trigger. Cooper would be nice if we end up with a late first round pick but Cooper isnt the best guard prospect in over a decade.

I don't know if you just saw what I saw, but Mike Mayock was just praising Warmack (and Fluker)more than I've ever heard him praise anyone.. He said throw out all the measurables and combine numbers, when he gets out on the field, he's one of the best football players in this year's draft. (paraphrasing a bit)

 

[Raider Nation]

Brandon Myers signs with the Giants.

I'd love to be one of those teams who get new players.

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Brandon Myers signs with the Giants.I'd love to be one of those teams who get new players.

Maybe next year.

 

[Chadstroma]

Brandon Myers signs with the Giants.I'd love to be one of those teams who get new players.

Even when we get out of salary cap hell, I don't think MacKenzie will splurge in the FA market. He will look for value as he is now but maybe will have more freedom.

 

[Chadstroma]

Looks like we have our new MIKE LB, Nick Roach. From what I've heard looks like a decent signing. Goodbye Ro McClain.

McKenzie must really like him if the contract rumors are accurate. If there is a position the former NFL linebacker McKenzie seems to have a good eye for its linebackers. He gave Roach a much bigger contract than he gave Wheeler. I'm not sure if Roach is going to play in the middle or on the strongside. He has more experience on the outside but did replace Urlacher for a few games in the middle. They could move Burris in the middle and it might not be settled until training camp.

Roach is a solid signing. He has a ton of versatility and is a solid player. I think like Wheeler he is a value signing more so because of the system they were in where they did not stack up numbers. I expect Roach to flourish even more so than Wheeler with us either in the middle or outside. As for the bigger contract than Wheeler, I think that mostly comes from Roach showing more with his previous team than Wheeler did. As someone who watches way more Bear games than I would like, I love this signing.

 

[Raider Nation]

Both Kiper and McShay have us taking Floyd in their latest mocks. Here are their comments:

Kiper

Analysis: The Raiders are in desperate need of young talent on the defensive line after a year where they were far too often gashed by the run. Floyd is a dynamic young talent, has played inside and on the edge and uses great leverage and power to drive blockers back and blow up plays.

Free agency factor: The future for Carson Palmer is a question mark because of his massive contract, and I can see the Raiders taking a hard look at a QB with this pick, even if the value range doesn't line up well. The Raiders also must find upgrades at linebacker. All in all, free agency shouldn't have much of an affect on this selection.

McShay

Analysis: I hear all the noise out of Oakland regarding Geno Smith, but I just can't get on board. This team has so many holes and is so financially strapped that it can't afford to take a chance on a quarterback who has some holes in his game.

The smart play is to draft the best available lineman -- offensive or defensive -- who fits what the Raiders do schematically. I give the nod to Floyd. This guy has outstanding intangibles, he doesn't have durability issues and he's a disruptive force who will fit perfectly as a three-technique in Oakland's 4-3 front.

 

[UnknownCoach]

The smart play is to draft the best available lineman -- offensive or defensive -- who fits what the Raiders do schematically. I give the nod to Floyd. This guy has outstanding intangibles, he doesn't have durability issues and he's a disruptive force who will fit perfectly as a three-technique in Oakland's 4-3 front.

I agree with the heart of the logic but not the pick. I like Warmack, Joekel, Lotulelei, and Fisher all considerably more than Floyd. Heck there are a few other prospects I like better than Floyd and we certainly arent stuck with having to take a tackle. Neither are we stuck with a 4-3 defensive front. We have such a big turnover on defense it would be really easy to change fronts and we used different fronts even last year. Not that Floyd wouldnt fit in a different front. Just that other prospects have much better resumes than Floyd.

 

[Garrett]

I was hoping Myers could come back to Oakland at the right price; wishful thinking I guess

 

[UnknownCoach]

Last year McKenzie focused on the offensive line. This year he's focused on the linebackers. We now have 3 new veteran starting LBs. Miami signed Wheeler, so we signed their strongside LB Kevin Burnett. Burnett's brother was signed mid season last year and seems likely to backup his older brother this year. This means Burris will probably be benched unless he can beat out Maiava on the weakside or become a pass rusher in a 3-4 base. It also means Roach will be in the middle.

 

[UnknownCoach]

New Raider defense so far

DE/OLB - I doubt this position is settled yet. Hunter, Crawford and potentially Burris are the only options with Hunter the most likely to start. However Andre Carter is still available and seems like he should have been one of the top priority resignings after Wheeler. Of course we lost out on Wheeler so losing out on Carter wont be surprising at this point. There's also the chance of drafting someone like Jarvis Jones or one of the other top pass rushers in the draft. We need at least one more DE/OLB on the roster. Oddly, Dumerville is available after his agent failed to get the paperwork to Denver in time for his resigning to become official. Not that he's likely to sign here. Shaughnessy is definately gone, he signed with Arizona.

DT/DE - Another unsettled position. Kelly is still on the team and could easily slide over to this spot and we could start Sims at the DT/NT position. Bilukidi is also an option. We still have room for another tackle on the roster and I'm hoping we can upgrade over Sims/Bilukidi. This draft is nice and deep at DT so even if we dont use our first round pick on one, we can probably pick up a starter in round 3. There's also a chance to have Houston start inside even though I dont like the idea. He rotated inside more last year and got more playing time in passing situations. I expect Houston to show up in great shape again and stay on the outside until he gets older and slower. Seymour is still a FA but is unlikely to be back.

DT/NT - Kelly is still on the roster and now we have Sims. Kelly's contract hasnt been restructured so he's still a cut candidate, especially come June 1 if we draft a DT.

DE - Houston is still here and assuming Crawford makes the team again we dont neccessarily need any more DEs. Though it wouldnt hurt to bring in competition.

WLB (OLB/ILB) - Maiava is a natural fit here and Burris might get a chance to fend him off and keep the starting job for himself.

MLB - Looks like Roach gets first shot here. Burris could potentially backup multiple positions including this one. Better I would expect to draft or sign another ILB. Gaither is still available and Goethel is still under contract but I'd rather go a whole new direction.

SLB - The Burnett brothers should have this locked up. Assuming the younger Burnett is brought back and makes the team again. I'm pretty sure Kevin signed expecting his brother to remain.

SS - Branch is the only returning starter locked up for several more seasons. In fact he added two more seasons to his contract when he restructured. By 2014 he might be the only remaining defensive player from the Al Davis era. Mitchell is still a FA which is a little surprising. If he doesnt get a chance to compete for a starting job elsewhere he could be resigned. More likely we'll need to find a new backup.

FS - Not only isnt this position settled, but converting a backup CB would be our only current option. Giordano is still an available FA but I think fans are very tired of watching him start. We should add a new starter and maybe a new backup too.

CB - We need a stud corner badly. We dont have anything close right now. At this time it almost appears McKenzie is neglecting this position for the second straight offseason. Let's hope he has something up his sleeve better than 34 year old Newman who might yet sign with the team. If Newman does sign let's hope its as the second starter.

CB - Having a bunch of guys compete for the second CB spot isnt a bad idea. Its looking like we'll have a lot of guys in camp to compete. Adams and Francies have already resigned. Guys like Ross and Chekwa should return. Taiwan Jones might convert to CB. Hanson and Spencer are still available FAs who could come back. Throw in a couple new names likely to be signed or drafted and the competition gets interesting.

 

[32 Counter Pass]

It seems the Raiders have queitly upgraded the linebacker position if Pro Football Foucus has any credibility:

1. Pro Football Focus graded Burnett as the No. 4 4-3 outside 'backer in football, behind only Von Miller, Jerod Mayo, and Lance Briggs.

2. Kaluka Maiava graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 7 4-3 outside linebacker.

3. Nick Roach started 14 games on a pretty good Bears defense last year.

Not the splash other teams are making, but it seems like a step forward.

 

[kaso]

Updated to included the previously mentioned item. It just feels so good to point it out again.

It seems the Raiders have queitly upgraded the linebacker position if Pro Football Foucus has any credibility:

1. Pro Football Focus graded Burnett as the No. 4 4-3 outside 'backer in football, behind only Von Miller, Jerod Mayo, and Lance Briggs.

2. Kaluka Maiava graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 7 4-3 outside linebacker.

3. Nick Roach started 14 games on a pretty good Bears defense last year.

4. The pending release of that bum McClain

Not the splash other teams are making, but it seems like a step forward.

 

[BlackMagic10]

We get a 6th rd compensatory pick...

My link

 

[UnknownCoach]

We get a 6th rd compensatory pick...

My link

So now we have 2 picks in rounds 6 and 7 but no picks in rounds 2 and 5.

 

[LawFitz]

We get a 6th rd compensatory pick...

My link

So now we have 2 picks in rounds 6 and 7 but no picks in rounds 2 and 5.

Not having the 2nd rounder hurts, especially b/c it's a high second.Good news is both Raider scouting and McKenzie are good at unearthing gems in the late rounds. Don't be surprised to see one or two of those 6th/7th rounders hit. There are always gems in the late rounds of every draft.

And absolutely can't blow the 1st round pick. Unless they see elite AND safe up there, I'd like to see them trade down. That's A LOT easier to do now with the revise rookie cap (and maybe a lil Gino hype).

 

[LawFitz]

Falcons DT Vance Walker to the Raiders. Numbers not released, but if he was signed for a reasonable price, I hope Reggie locked this guy up for 2-3 years. He's a good one and he's young and durable. And can stop the run. :OMG:

I like the signings so far considering the limited cap. All value players at reasonable contracts. Really like Roach and Walker, in particular. Sims and Burnett could prove good value too. And the Raiders told Slowrando to look for a trade to finalize the last Al Davis bust pick to be gone. I wonder if they'll even get a 7th rounder for that guy.

A LOT of work still left to be done, but these are a couple decent pieces this week.

 

[Stompin' Tom Connors]

Both Kiper and McShay have us taking Floyd in their latest mocks. Here are their comments:

Kiper

Analysis: The Raiders are in desperate need of young talent on the defensive line after a year where they were far too often gashed by the run. Floyd is a dynamic young talent, has played inside and on the edge and uses great leverage and power to drive blockers back and blow up plays.

Free agency factor: The future for Carson Palmer is a question mark because of his massive contract, and I can see the Raiders taking a hard look at a QB with this pick, even if the value range doesn't line up well. The Raiders also must find upgrades at linebacker. All in all, free agency shouldn't have much of an affect on this selection.

McShay

Analysis: I hear all the noise out of Oakland regarding Geno Smith, but I just can't get on board. This team has so many holes and is so financially strapped that it can't afford to take a chance on a quarterback who has some holes in his game.

The smart play is to draft the best available lineman -- offensive or defensive -- who fits what the Raiders do schematically. I give the nod to Floyd. This guy has outstanding intangibles, he doesn't have durability issues and he's a disruptive force who will fit perfectly as a three-technique in Oakland's 4-3 front.

I wholeheartedly agree with them both. Everything I've seen and heard out of Florida and the SEC points to Floyd being the real deal. I think I like his prospects, talent and fit better than other tackles like Richardson, or potential risks like Lotulelei. Floyd is rawer in technique, but highly flexible, and would definitely help shore up both our run D and our overall D line immediately.Geno Smith is very talented himself, but not what the Raiders need right now. With relatively few top round picks, it's not a place to gamble on a QB who in my mind has more question marks in terms of technique, and definitely won't feel at home in a less than high-octane offense.

I think Floyd is the perfect pick for us, with other potential candidates being and end like Jordan or Werner. An OT like Joeckel or Fisher would be tempting, but we need a middle anchor on the other side of the ball even more.

I don't mind not seeing the Raiders' name pop up in the early days of FA period -- we shouldn't be looking to blow cap allocations and should be seeking instead value as FA prices go down. Also agree that there is likely just as much (and cheaper) value using the draft, but again because we don't have a lot of low round picks, I can't pretend I wouldn't have liked to see at least more inquiries and outreach to some impact players by the Raiders in FA.

Like what I am seeing so far in addressing the LB depth -- it is these kinds of moves that will at least help us field a quasi-competitive team this year, though jury remains out how much these newly signed guys can prove to be diamonds in the rough.

 

[Stompin' Tom Connors]

We get a 6th rd compensatory pick...

My link

So now we have 2 picks in rounds 6 and 7 but no picks in rounds 2 and 5.

Not having the 2nd rounder hurts, especially b/c it's a high second.Good news is both Raider scouting and McKenzie are good at unearthing gems in the late rounds. Don't be surprised to see one or two of those 6th/7th rounders hit. There are always gems in the late rounds of every draft.

And absolutely can't blow the 1st round pick. Unless they see elite AND safe up there, I'd like to see them trade down. That's A LOT easier to do now with the revise rookie cap (and maybe a lil Gino hype).

Wait, what? Rod Martin, Bo Jackson, and Shane Lechler, sure, but the Raiders have not really been able to duplicate that kind of magic since the turn of the Millennium.

McKenzie has a decent track record elsewhere, but certainly not yet on the Raiders.