It's All About The QB
The notion that Matt McGloin or Terrelle Pryor is going to take us to the promised land is laughable. Stop kidding yourself. I know it's been a while since we've seen an elite player in Oakland. But that's no excuse for kidding ourselves.
We need to find a franchise quarterback, sooner rather than later.
Look at who's left in the NFL Playoffs: Manning, Brady, Brees, Rivers, Kaepernick, Luck, Wilson and Newton. It's not a coincidence.
The pedigrees of Manning, Brady and Brees are unquestioned. It's safe to say that Luck is on his way to becoming the next great thing. Kaepernick is taking his team deep for the second straight year. Russell Wilson is going to be around for a long time. You could say that Rivers and Newton aren't elite, although Newton is knocking at the door.
This bears repeating from an earlier take, quoting a piece in CBS Sports: The Indianapolis Colts raised the bar on rebuilding by going from a 2-14 record in 2011 to the playoffs in 2012 after a roster purge similar to Oakland's. Indianapolis had a league-high $38.79 million of dead money last season (2012). The biggest difference in the two situations is the Colts were able to draft a franchise quarterback, Andrew Luck, in 2012 with the first overall pick while one wasn't available for the Raiders in this year's draft.
Luck is making hay with T.Y. Hilton, DHB (!), LaVon Brazill and Da'Rick Rogers. The Colts are still rebuilding, and they're in the playoffs for the second straight year. Luck is an extreme example, as he's a once-a-decade kind of a prospect, but he demonstrates the palliative power of the QB position in today's NFL.
In other words, the sooner we find an elite QB, the sooner we become a perennial contender. Period.
Now, that's the rub, isn't it? Elite QB's aren't exactly falling out of trees.
The 2014 is said to be a QB-rich draft, but only one or or maybe two of them will pan out as franchise quarterbacks.
So what's Reggie to do? Focus on the right prospect, and go all out in drafting him, even if that means trading up.
But what if he gets it wrong? Well, here's my answer: don't.
I'm sick of all of the excuses as to why the Raiders never seem to veer into the elite. You can talk about thin free agency classes, how the draft is a crapshoot, etc.
That may be true. But if you take that thinking to the Nth degree, then what you are saying is that the NFL is just a roulette wheel, and we might as well let chimpanzees sit in the executive chair.
That is not true. Yes, everyone misses. But some GMs and teams routinely miss less than others, and find a way to draft and sign free agents more effectively than others. Those are the teams that perennially contend. It's not luck (unless you're talking about Indy, in which case it is Luck).
The entire NFL missed on Wilson and Kaepernick through round one of their drafts. But you know who didn't? The Niners and Seahawks, who are both in the playoffs again. Did they get lucky? Maybe. But they also got "lucky" picking effective head case Aldon Smith over retired head case Rolando McLain, and picking sure-handed Crabtree over stone-fingered DHB, and drafting Richard Sherman instead of Chimdi Chekwa, and finding a way to trade for Anquan Boldin, Marshawn Lynch, etc.
It's not about being right all of the time. It's about being right more often than most.
The time has come for the Raiders to aspire to, and attain, that type of excellence. There's money in the bank, and we're now in three year of the rebuilding (or year one of the "reconstruction," if that's how you choose to look at it, hah!).
Is it unfair to say that Reggie and the Raiders need to hit it out of the park in the 2014 draft and free agency market? At this point, I don't care if it is unfair, because it's high time.
Perennial contenders do it, and now the Raiders need to do it. Starting with the quarterback position.
We need to find a franchise quarterback, sooner rather than later.
Look at who's left in the NFL Playoffs: Manning, Brady, Brees, Rivers, Kaepernick, Luck, Wilson and Newton. It's not a coincidence.
The pedigrees of Manning, Brady and Brees are unquestioned. It's safe to say that Luck is on his way to becoming the next great thing. Kaepernick is taking his team deep for the second straight year. Russell Wilson is going to be around for a long time. You could say that Rivers and Newton aren't elite, although Newton is knocking at the door.
This bears repeating from an earlier take, quoting a piece in CBS Sports: The Indianapolis Colts raised the bar on rebuilding by going from a 2-14 record in 2011 to the playoffs in 2012 after a roster purge similar to Oakland's. Indianapolis had a league-high $38.79 million of dead money last season (2012). The biggest difference in the two situations is the Colts were able to draft a franchise quarterback, Andrew Luck, in 2012 with the first overall pick while one wasn't available for the Raiders in this year's draft.
Luck is making hay with T.Y. Hilton, DHB (!), LaVon Brazill and Da'Rick Rogers. The Colts are still rebuilding, and they're in the playoffs for the second straight year. Luck is an extreme example, as he's a once-a-decade kind of a prospect, but he demonstrates the palliative power of the QB position in today's NFL.
In other words, the sooner we find an elite QB, the sooner we become a perennial contender. Period.
Now, that's the rub, isn't it? Elite QB's aren't exactly falling out of trees.
The 2014 is said to be a QB-rich draft, but only one or or maybe two of them will pan out as franchise quarterbacks.
So what's Reggie to do? Focus on the right prospect, and go all out in drafting him, even if that means trading up.
But what if he gets it wrong? Well, here's my answer: don't.
I'm sick of all of the excuses as to why the Raiders never seem to veer into the elite. You can talk about thin free agency classes, how the draft is a crapshoot, etc.
That may be true. But if you take that thinking to the Nth degree, then what you are saying is that the NFL is just a roulette wheel, and we might as well let chimpanzees sit in the executive chair.
That is not true. Yes, everyone misses. But some GMs and teams routinely miss less than others, and find a way to draft and sign free agents more effectively than others. Those are the teams that perennially contend. It's not luck (unless you're talking about Indy, in which case it is Luck).
The entire NFL missed on Wilson and Kaepernick through round one of their drafts. But you know who didn't? The Niners and Seahawks, who are both in the playoffs again. Did they get lucky? Maybe. But they also got "lucky" picking effective head case Aldon Smith over retired head case Rolando McLain, and picking sure-handed Crabtree over stone-fingered DHB, and drafting Richard Sherman instead of Chimdi Chekwa, and finding a way to trade for Anquan Boldin, Marshawn Lynch, etc.
It's not about being right all of the time. It's about being right more often than most.
The time has come for the Raiders to aspire to, and attain, that type of excellence. There's money in the bank, and we're now in three year of the rebuilding (or year one of the "reconstruction," if that's how you choose to look at it, hah!).
Is it unfair to say that Reggie and the Raiders need to hit it out of the park in the 2014 draft and free agency market? At this point, I don't care if it is unfair, because it's high time.
Perennial contenders do it, and now the Raiders need to do it. Starting with the quarterback position.
posted by Raider Take at 5:19 PM
138 Comments:
OK, I'm in. Trade up to get the QB.
And guess what ? I don't even care if Reggie blows it.
Because Reg will probably blow the #5 pick anyway.
Nate75. Why so concerned about Manziel and casino's ?
As I recall, Michael Jordan loved casino's too.
I can probably name you over a dozen, hall of fame athletes, that loved to go to casino's.
It's not the end of the world.
Huge point in Raider history. If this regime fails, this Org could be finished for another decade. I have liked what I have seen from McKenzie so far, I put my trust in him to do a good job this off season and beyond. Until he shows me otherwise, that's it.
JONES
It's funny, I think we're all in the same boat now. Everything is converging, and THE YEAR is upon us.
Some of us are more questioning, some of us are more confident, but everyone seems to agree that it's show-me time.
I agree that 2014 is the "Show me, no excuses" year.
My concern is that I don't view any of the QBs in the draft as being "franchise" QBs. Do you? I know that 2 or 3 QBs in the 2014 might emerge as franchise QBs eventually. I just don't know if you blow up your draft to move up to take Bridgewater .
Some how, some way, sooner than later, the Raiders need to identify a franchise QB.
If Reggie doesn't feel strongly about Bridgewater or any of the 1st round QBs, you might be forced to take a QB in the later rounds.
That's the thing, it's so hard to say. Surely there's ONE franchise quarterback available this year? If so, the Raiders need to get him. Who will it be? That's what Reggie gets paid for.
Nobody thought that there were franchise QBs in Wilson and Kaepernick in the second rounds, at least not to the degree of grabbing them in the first round.
Is Manziel (or Bridgewater, etc.) destined to excel, or doomed to fail? I don't know. But pay me a half million per year salary (or whatever Reggie makes) and I'll gladly accept the responsibility of making that call!
This is the era of "get it right." We need to be THAT team that "lucks out, gets it right, hits a home run, outsmarts everyone" or whatever you call it. The time is now.
It's always been show me time, but, some do it with the context in mind. Some just blurt at the result and say WTF?
When the whole picture is taken into account, there is understanding. When only snippets are taken, there is anger and confusion.
With such an overhaul and rebuild in order, the big picture is huge. It all has to be taken into account with context. Once that is done, you will see that this reconstruction is moving forward in the right direction.
There will be some bumps, that is to be expected. I think the OAKLAND RAIDERS really need the fans to back this regime at this time. All the positive energy we can muster, it can contribute to a better outcome, believe it.
JONES
Raider Take
You are spot on until Reggie fixes the QB issue the Raiders will suck
All the best
Sandy
As far as a QB...if Reggie needs to trade up to get a top QB this year...I say go for it. Seems to be a couple of good prospects this year.
Build the lines through FA.
DB's draft and FA,
LB FA.
FA WR, TE, G's. Draft T, RB, C.
Build the depth, create competition within the team, raise the bar as far as standard of play....let the Leaders lead the team. The STANDARD MUST RISE DRAMATICALLY starting in mini camp.
Reggie is known to pick FA's who have quality character and football IQ. He has also said he will shy away from big contracts.
It all hinges on this year, this is the swing year. If the rumors are true and Mark is sticking his nose in it, then it's going to be shit. If Mark is sticking to his word and deferring to Reggie, then the Raiders are in good shape.
JONES
Laying all the cards on the table ... is Bridgewater the guy to go "all in" by moving up to the #1 spot and mortgaging multiple high picks?
If you feel that he is the Franchise QB, then YES! If you aren't as sure as necessary, NO. Not so easy, is it?
As I said earlier, I'm not convinced that he's "the guy".
It truly is a high stakes poker game.
Yes, Reggie is paid and trusted to make the right call. The right call might be to "fold" on Bridgewater, and take someone else in the 2nd round.
Great Take.
Was Chekwa really chosen before Sherman? Now that's depressing. But I guess no more depressing than DHB over Crabtree.
This concern about Manziel off the field is kind of laughable. Especially coming from Raider fans. Remember a guy named Kenny Stabler? He was no saint. I'm more concerned with the guy's frame more than anything, but he never seems to take a big hit and has a knack of avoiding them.
Kenny Stabler was from a much different era. McKenzie has made it clear he doesn't want problems. If there is a hint of trouble from Manziel, Reggie won't touch him, IMO.
I don't know enough about Bridgewater to make the call. It is Reggie's and we all hope Reggie makes the right call. It's all just wait and see now, this is what he was hired for, he must be like a kid in a candy store. Lot's of room for all kinds of options.
Go Reggie, Go Raiders
JONES
Bridgewater is the real thing. Outside of Mariotta who is staying school there is not one college qb who is worth rolling the dice on.
I am from South Florida so I have watched Bridgewater since high school he can do it on the pros
With Cutler gone there is no FA that could carry the franchise for a number of years. So though Teddy may not be as sure a thing as Luck its the best the Raiders can do.
I worry that Reggie's play it safe attitude will lead to signing someone like Schaub which will just keep the Raiders mired in mediocrity at best
The one thing that the Colts did not "rebuild" is their offensive line. They had a lot of the same guys on the O-Line that Manning had when they drafted Luck. They went 2-11 because they did not have anyone behind Manning. I'm not buying that the Colts totally destroyed their team and rebuilt. They had pieces of the puzzle together and got the "Luck of the draw" in the draft.
I don't mind if we went out and grabbed a QB in the draft, or signed or traded for a veteran QB; but I would like to see what McGloin would be able to do with a decent O-Line and protection. He showed a lot of poise in the pocket for an undrafted rookie, and that is really impressive!
Yes, he made rookie mistakes; but those happen because of the speed of the game. I'm not saying he will be elite; but I am saying he will be above average if we surround him with better players like Manning, Brady, Luck, Kapernick, Wilson, and Brees has. And he will put us in a position to win.
How many times did McGloin put the Raiders in that position this last season without the supporting cast? 4 out of the last 6 games he played in.
There were 2 games in that stretch where you could blame McGloin for rookie mistakes that cost us. I think he deserves a shot to prove himself.
Say we draft a QB, then what? Are we going to expect them to be like Luck, Brady, Brees, Kapernick, etc; and take us to the promise land based on just the fact that we drafted "said" QB? Nevermind the supporting cast around these other guys. What about development? Are we going to allow these QB's to mature and develop their game from college to pro; or are we going to expect them to know it and be it?
To say we need a QB only and then things will be better is uninformed. How many passes did the WR's drop this year? How much pressure did the opposing defense get on our QB on passing plays? How well did our running game help the offense? The problem with the Raiders right now, is it is more than QB inept; it is talent inept. No #1 WR, a makeshift offensive line, and a "getting by" running game. How about we start building a supporting cast? How about we start filling the glaring holes we have on both sides of the ball?
I'm not opposed to getting another QB, don't get me wrong (via draft, trade, or free agency); but I think McGloin deserves a chance to show what he is capable of with a supporting cast.
I think McGloin is in a situation that can be comparable to Alex Smith's time in San Fran. Alex's first 3 years were dismal with the 9ers, and he didn't even play in 2008. But when he did, he showed spark, and the ability to lead; but like McGloin, did not have the supporting cast around him; nor good coaching that was helping him develop.
In 2009, a switch flipped and he became the QB everyone expected him to become. And even though Kapernick was the QB in the Super Bowl last year for the 9ers, it was Alex Smith who led them to a 10-0 record. I believe if Smith would have started against the Ravens last year, the 9ers would have won the Super Bowl.
I think the same thing can happen with McGloin and the Raiders. Get the supporting cast that any QB is going to need, and let him prove himself. If he fails, then I will stand corrected. Either way, it would be better to let him prove it here in Oakland, rather than letting him go somewhere else. He has got poise, and has proven he has leadership qualities that we have lacked.
I'm just not feeling McGloin as a long-term starting solution. I suppose it's possible that he could rise to the Alex Smith level, or even Drew Brees, who took a few years to put it all together.
As for Luck, let's not sell him short. He's amazing. Look at the below quote from an article published on 12/24 about the Colts' O-Line struggles. Luck is 18-2 in games decided by a touchdown or less so far in his career. He's now working under a different OC than last year. He lost Reggie Wayne but hasn't lost a step. His second best wide receiver right now is drop-happy DHB!
Well, enough Luck love. He's a once-a-decade prospect. But if there's one guy out there who's fated to be a franchise quarterback this year, then we need to draft him, even if it's in the second round, or if we need to trade up. We finally need to be THAT team that gets it right and outsmarts the others.
"If the early struggles to protect quarterback Andrew Luck weren't problem enough, the injuries along the offensive line in recent weeks gave the Indianapolis Colts every excuse to fall apart up front.
Seven different starting lineups along the line, including five in the past five games, have forced coach Chuck Pagano to be creative in his tinkering with the line.
The Colts had only six healthy offensive linemen before they brought center Thomas Austin up from the practice squad the day before their game against the Kansas City Chiefs last weekend. Austin was released on Tuesday."
Right on Take! QB is priority # 1. Can't afford to miss this year.
Obviously, it makes no sense to anoint a starting QB now. I believe the Raiders should stack the position, e.g., through draft and free agency, then let the best man win the job.
There's no question the draft can be high-risk, and I agree Andrew Luck is an exceptional once-every-10-years type of QB.
Plus, the Raiders don't exactly have a recent history of developing QBs. Perhaps that's ancient history now that we have new management/coaching.
In spite of the loser that JaMarcus Russell became, his failures weren't all his fault. I think the coaches played a part in "allowing" Russell to fail because he was Al’s pick.
Either way, Russell looked like a stud coming out of college, which gives me pause about anyone as highly rated as Bridgewater, and whose name isn’t “Luck.”
Manziel reminds me of a more polished McGloin, but both guys may be undersized for sustained success at the NFL level. However, perhaps having both on the same roster provides clone-like backup in case of emergency.
One thing for certain, this offseason has the makings to be the most interesting we’ve had in a long time.
Reggie's play it safe attitude? Where do you come up with that one?
Reggie had to redo the roster twice in 2 years. If he was play it safe, he would of held on to the old guard and try to continue to build around them.
He didn't, he wiped the whole slate clean and said it was time to start over. That is not play it safe by any means. As you can see, his job is being questioned already because he had to tear it down. Is that playing it safe?
JONES
I think McGloin is a great story, but, I think the Raiders can do better. He would be an excellent backup and could develop into a good QB. I think the Raiders need a difference maker, a QB who can put the team on his back and take them where they need to go.
IMO, I don't think Reggie and Allen will want to hitch their wagon to McGloin. I think they would want better and I hope this is the case. I like McGloin and what he has done, but for the Raiders, we should expect better.
JONES
OK, I'm going to quote Montana. Well, Tony Montana,(Scarface), not Joe.
First u get de money.
Then u get de power.
Then u get de girl.
Now I will quote Raidertake.
First u get de QB.
Then u get de respect.
Then u get de Super bowl.
It's very simple Reggie. Just follow de, I mean, the plan.
Hah, good one!
Things are sure quiet in Alameda right now...Eerily quiet.
RT, I half expect someone(s) on the assistant coaching level to take some of the blame for the 2013 season. I thought they were meeting on this yesterday. Think maybe Allen is fighting for Tarver's job?
OO - If you're spelling phonetically, I’d replace "u" with "chu", mane!
Yeah, or even fighting for his own. Stranger things have happened in Raiderland.
Jones your right Reggie is a risk taker I forgot about that dumb ass pick of Hayden.
When Hayden has his first full training camp and the 2014 season progresses, we shall see if it was a "dumb ass pick". Until then, it is to be determined.
Considering he could have taken Star, or about 15 other guys who started and produced as of today its a dumb ass pick
Not sure which is dumber; judging Hayden now or thinking the Raiders would have posted a different result in 2013 had they selected a more "NFL-ready" player.
Looks like the speculation from the mediots is we are losing Sparano to the Buccaneers because he wanted a 2 year deal, not a 1 year.
The Raiders front is really tight lipped as to who is really leaving, or who is staying.
The mediots are reporting 6-7 coaches have signed a 1 year deal; but there are no indications as to who they are.
If Sparano departs, that will be disappointing. We will see once Allen and McKenzie talks to the Coaches to see who is staying and who is gone.
I've pretty much talked myself into the idea of Manziel at this point, so if that was to happen at least it would be exciting, but I think the best case scenario for the Raiders would be to find themselves in a position to grab a guy like Clowney or Sammy Watkins at 5 and then try to strike gold on one of the intriguing Day 2 quarterback prospects like Mettenberger, McCarron or Murray.
Those guys all seem like solid, smart players that could really excel at the next level.
Based on what QBs the Raiders currently have on their roster, the thin prospect of upcoming free agent QBs and the ultimate importance of the position (which I think we all pretty agree), would it be too insane to select a QB in the 1st and 2nd rounds?
Probably never been done.
Manziel announced he is entering the NFL draft, and is saying and doing the right things:
From PFT:
Bruce Feldman of CBS reports that Manziel plans to move to San Diego for the next few months to train with private quarterbacks coach George Whitfield, who will help Manziel prepare for the NFL Scouting Combine and private workouts with NFL teams.
Manziel told Feldman, “I’m ready to become a professional and dedicate myself to making my dream a reality of becoming the best quarterback I can be.”
JONES!!!
You ignorant ass piece of shit!!!
Copy Post:
Nothing to hide
you know it and I know it, so what are you going to do, tough guy?
by endocannabinoid on Jan 8, 2014 | 5:18 AM up reply rec flag
_________________________________
I'm
not dumb enough to put a pic of myself with an underaged ‘wife’ and boast about it. But thanks for outing yourself anyways, LOL.
__________________________________
Wow
you are so smart. I laid it out for you the 1st day and you ran on here like a dingbat out of hell, waiting to try and do your agent orange work. Hey, just keep your hands off her, if I hear any different = trouble.
by endocannabinoid on Jan 8, 2014 | 5:34 AM up reply rec flag
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LOL
2 sides to every story. Waste of time, is well known for his characters. I don’t play that crap and in no way am I $$ whatever, if you haven’t noticed, Panty sniffer uses that symbol often.
He has been busted using multiple names, he also has ripped this regime from day 1.
The only thing I have ever said about his wife was that it disgusted me that he was bragging about having an underaged wife. HE WAS BRAGGING, so I pointed out that it was very classless. He took that as an attack on his family. It’s what he does, he twists things and uses multiple accounts to confuse. He does plenty of meth and flip flops regularly. So believe him if you want, he is a flake with no stability, that’s why he loved the last regime so much.
by endocannabinoid on Jan 8, 2014 | 2:23 PM up reply rec flag
http://www.silverandblackpride.com/2014/1/7/5284644/meeting-with-mark-davis-today-to-decide-fate-of-raiders-coaching-staff#comments
PantyRaider....The LIAR Blew His Cover!!!!
You guys are happy to proclaim Streater and Sio Moore great picks based on the body of evidence that exists as of today. Just doing the same with Watson and Hayden. Hope i am wrong but as of Jan 8th 2014 they suck
I guess I'm on board with Manziel. I'm more concerned about his durability than his nightlife. But I like the idea of a playmaker at quarterback. He seems to be competitively motivated, given that his family has plenty of money. If I were a GM, I'd really want to get a sense of his work ethic, however.
Is he going to go all out in the work ethic department like Manning, Luck, Wilson, etc.? If he doesn't master the little things, he could end up flaming out.
One thing you'll notice about the QBs playing this weekend, they're smart dudes. Listen to them at the presser podium. Manning, Wilson, Brees, Luck, Brady, Newton...Now contrast that with the personal presentation of a guy like JaMarcus Russell (for the most extreme example), or even hat-on-backwards guys like Romo and Stafford, who never quite seem to rise to the occasion.
I think it's something that bears paying attention to. Is Manziel going to clean up the dopey stuff and man up to the responsibility of being the CEO of the team?
Forgot all this stuff about Manziel the person lets talk about the skills. He does not have the arm strength and has not played under center. Two major flaws.
Be it Bridgewater, Manziel, or some other QB, the key to potentially drafting a franchise QB this year -- and really the difference from past years -- will be the preparation and overall decision-making process by management (and having mgt & coaching on the same exact page!). This is where McKenzie needs to separate himself from past Raiders' processes and selections. Suffice to say, it's not a decision that should come from watching You Tube Highlights or by comparing longest passes or 40-times at the NFL Scouting Combine.
JaMarcus Russell; lesson learned!
Good to see that the Raiders retained arguably their best coach to a 2 year deal in Sparano. He did an outstanding job in 2013 with a make-shift, depleted OLine.
Yes, a good sign that things are well in Oakland. If it was a mess, these coaches would have bolted, they all decided to sign on, even for 1 year. That means they want to be in Oakland and that is a good sign of stability within the Front Office, IMO.
JONES
I agree CJ and Jones; begins to mitigate the historic reactions we have become so accustomed to that our owner was once again meddling, things are "rotten in Denmark," no one will work there, etc.. Hard to suppress habitual responses given the leadership we knew for so long in Oakland.
That is part of why it is so difficult to read the tea leaves in the decisions being made and why. Our default answers and filters are not always aligned to the new reality. Personally, I found this signing to be another step in believing something truly different is taking place in Oakland. While some people might argue Dennis Allen should have been fired, and I see both sides to that argument, none can question that under previous management, he would have been. Like Bill Murray said at the end of Groundhog Day, anything different is better. So with all due respect to Al Davis, I am taking this as another sign that anything different is better.
Blue Monday
Any odds on the Raiders using their 1st pick on a QB? Or even if Reggie trades up to get a top 3 pick? Now that the coaching is settled, this off season is going to be something to see. I look forward to it.
JONES
I believe the Raiders should (really need to) use their 1st pick on a QB. There are at least three very interesting QB prospects probably worthy of consideration for a top 5 pick.
I'm a fan of DJ Hayden but I don't expect the Raiders to take another chance like that (dude was coming off life-threatening injury). This year's pick has to be a slam dunk!
They have four months to study the draft and get it right.
NYR -
I don't believe any of the QB prospects are "slam dunks".
Even moving up to take a guy like Bridgewater is VERY risky since it would require a hefty price of losing a boatload of our picks.
One of the only guys in the draft that I see as a true "slam dunk" is OT Jake Matthews who as blue chip as they come.
The Raiders need to start adding significant building blocks. Matthews fits that description to a T at a very important position for any successful team.
CJ - I meant slam dunk only from standpoint that the Raiders do their homework! Their pick at #5 shouldn’t be clouded by extraordinary uncertainties, or be such a reach that it makes absolutely no sense (DHB!).
Matthews has experience at RT, which is where some scouts project he will play in the NFL. My fear is Matthews could end up being another Robert Gallery (ho-hum) pick.
Take a look at Greg Robinson, who some think has more upside than Matthews.
From CBS Sports:
“Physical and tenacious, Robinson is a grizzly bear in the running game, mauling opponents with an exciting blend of size (6-5, 320 pounds), strength and athleticism.”
Raiders need a bus load of guys like this.
NYR,
No doubt about the importance of the Raiders due diligence.
My concern is reaching up to take Bridgewater and mortgaging our other top picks or taking a QB such as Manziel at #5 for the sake of taking a QB.
AngelicRaider
I am still a fan of beefing up the trenches first. For example Matt Flynn looked a whole lot better with Green Bays O-line and WR's than he did with the Silver and Black. Why draft a qb just to get killed and lose hope. I bet McGloin would do better in New Orleans or Pryor in San Fran because they have more talent in front of them. When Rothlesbeger came in as a rookie he too was the benefactor of a stout offensive line and a good running game.
I hear ya Take we do need a better qb, but I believe we need a better line then a better running game then a go get us another Stabler.
It's really a matter of "all of the above." We need to make improvements across the entire team. That said, I doubt we need any extra time to acquire and develop a serviceable O-line, i.e, beyond this off-season and the available cap spending.
However, and RT has been making this point all along, the top four QBs still in the hunt speak volumes to the importance of the position; Manning, Brady, Kaepernick and Wilson.
But, I agree, don’t draft a QB #5 or trade up for the sake of it. Let’s make sure we do it right. If the Raiders decide none of the top QB prospects are worthy and we end up with a top prospect at another position, I’m on board.
It looks like we can steal Cincy's pick because of tampering. Hue Jackson, the new OC in Cincy, made some curious mentions of McFadden, and a desire to sign him to the news media. You can check out the article on ProFootballTalk.com.
OOPS!
We can learn a lot from Indy.
They have Luck, but many other holes were exposed during playoffs.
Their D gave up 90+ points in 2 games.
Still, can we picture Indy winning a SB in 2 years ? Yes.
But if Indy had a solid D, but minus Luck, the story would not be the same.
Do like the Patriots do... Trade down!! How many playoff appearances with a whole bunch of no namers and unknowns from lower round picks!?!?
Yes they have Brady, but guess what round they got him from? 6th round!
Brady is the exception not the rule. Last time Raiders fielded a good team they had Rich Gannon, and he was league MVP. The QB problem has to be solved.
Need a QB.
Ha, well what came first, chicken or egg ?
What came first, Harbough or Kaepernick ?
Carroll, or Russell ?
Belichick, or Brady ?
Maybe Raiders need someone, anyone in the organization, that can identify a real QB.
The key to the success of all the above mentioned HC's, is that they found their QB, fast.
They didn't sit around crying, that it's sooooooooo hard to find a good QB these days.
Make no mistake. Harbough, Carroll, and Belichick, are not lucky lotto winners, they're good at what they do.
They knew what they were looking for, and they went out and found it in short order.
Meanwhile, Reggie/DA, spent off season, pouring over tapes, of Matt Flynn, and Tyler Wilson.
Oh well. I guess Pete Carroll liked Flynn too, for about 2 seconds.
Well, it is being reported by ProFootballTalk that the Raiders have re-signed D Coord Jason Tarver (which his contract expired today).
WHY? Could be the dumbest signing of the off-season.
Simple; continuity. Coaches are not ready to blame themselves for what happened last year. Heads will role if it happens again. Not much else to say.
Lol... uh, roll! End of a long day here on the east coast.
For what it is worth, ESPN's Scouts, Inc. has the highest graded QB (Bridgewater) at #12 (92/100) and Matthews at #2 (95/100);
SCOUTS INC.'S TOP 32 FOR 2014
1. Jadeveon Clowney* DE S Carolina 96
2. Jake Matthews* OT Texas A&M 95
3. Anthony Barr OLB UCLA 95
4. Sammy Watkins* WR Clemson 94
5. Khalil Mack OLB Buffalo 93
6. Greg Robinson* OT Auburn 93
7. Timmy Jernigan* DT Florida St 93
8. C.J. Mosley ILB Alabama 93
9. Marqise Lee* WR USC 93
10. Taylor Lewan OT Michigan 92
11. Justin Gilbert CB Oklahoma St 92
12. T. Bridgewater* QB Louisville 92
13. Stephon Tuitt* DE Notre Dame 92
14. Eric Ebron* TE N Carolina 92
15. Blake Bortles* QB UCF 91
16. H. Clinton-Dix* S Alabama 91
17. Louis Nix III DT Notre Dame 91
18. Johnny Manziel* QB Texas A&M 90
My Top 5 Mock picks:
Texans-Jadeveon Clowney
Rams-Jake Matthews
Jaguars-Teddy Bridgewater
Browns-Johnny Manziel
Raiders-Marquis Lee
Texans definitely take Clowney -- and they'd be stupid not to -- after JJ Watt endorsed the pick by suggesting he would push Clowney to play hard. With Watt's intensity and Clowney's potential, that could be a tremendous marriage for the Texans.
Do the Rams need another OT?
NFL.com mock draft has the Raiders taking Bridewater at #5, which would be ok by me.
Drafting Lee would be another headscratcher for me. Besides kinda hoping we don't pick a WR with our 1st pick, I don't think Lee's even the best WR in the draft and he's had injury problems as well as being reported to drop passes.
If we go OL, I like what I read about Robbinson over Matthews. Robbinson is a dominant run-blocker, as well as capable pass protector.
P.S. There's a lot of talent at the top of this draft class, which represents a huge opportunity for the Raiders to immediately improve their team with a single pick.
So it's gonna be critical they make the best possible choice.
Drafting a WR at #5 would be a major headscratcher considering the players available and our current needs.
It would be far more prudent, IMO, to find an established WR in free agency.
Watkins and Lee might be good WRs in the NFL but the WR position is a relatively lower priority compared to other units.
You guys are falling right back into the same old mindset that got Raiders to 4 wins every year.
What did Raidertake just write ?
Raiders NEED a QUARTERBACK!!!!!!
So all this talk about drafting WR's, and O-line, is waste of time.
If Raiders do that, might as well order from the 4 win menu again.
Hell, let's get it over with and take the best Corner in draft, at #5.
Don't the Raiders always end up picking a Corner with 1st pick anyway ?
Raider00 - go back and read the posts. The point has been made. Raiders need a QB, yes, but don't pick one at #5 just for the sake of it. We don't need another JaMarcus Russell-like blunder and three more years of this nonsense. Raiders need to do their due diligence and determine if any of these guys...
Bridgewater
Manziel
Bortles
...are worth a top five pick; should they trade up, down, or look to a later round?
Short of that, we are exploring other options at #5.
I would go with Robinson at #5 as well. The QB I have my eye on, and want to see how he fairs in the Sr Bowl, is Jimmy Garoppolo of Eastern Illinois. Yes, it's the same school that Tony Romo went to; and Jimmy has put up Romo like numbers. He may be a 2nd or 3rd round steal.
Free Agent WRs that I would bring in: Anquan Boldin, and/or Eric Decker. Either of those 2 can be a #1 WR on this team.
I would stay away from Hakeem Nicks, as he is built for a natural #2 WR, and we have plenty of those. I think Marquis Lee, though was injured this season, is still a top-notch/caliber WR. If we don't sign Michael Oher, then yes, I do draft an OT with the #5 overall pick. If we do sign Michael Oher, do we pick an OT to build depth; or do we go after a defensive lineman; or do we go after a WR, because we do need help at WR.
I feel we need to stay away from the QBs in the 1st Round. A QB is only going to be successful as the people around him. I don't think McGloin was as successful as he could have been because he doesn't have a lot of good people around him. Let's get him that talent, add Garoppolo in 2nd or 3rd Round, and build a better team.
Ok, so why can't Raiders be smart for a change ?
If Raiders don't think, Bridgewater, Manziel, or Bortles is worth a high pick.
Then target a Garappolo, or a McCarron, that can be had in late 1st/early 2nd, and keep trading down to aquire more picks for draft.
Raiders just seem to drift from season to season with same problems.
Make a plan. try something. Let's go!!!!!!!
When is the last time Adrian Peterson or Calvin Johnson or Dez Bryant or Chris Johnson (when he had 2k yards) led their teams deep into the playoffs?
The most gifted, talented QBs are always at the top of the standings. The most gifted, talented RBs and WRs often aren't.
It all starts with the QB. Draft accordingly.
The opportunity still needs to present itself. Who would you draft, based on your gut right now?
Bridgewater and last nights game SF-SEA proves it. You need to be able to make plays from the pocket throwing down the field. Kapernick could not do that.
Bridgewater has lined up under center and can make all the throws from the pocket. Manziel has not played in a pro offense and can not make all the nfl throws while standing in the pocket
Hopefully a few foolish teams like Cleveland fall in love with Manziel and Bridgewater drops to the Raiders
Worst Super Bowl Ever! I won't be watching, and it will be the first time I have not watched a Super Bowl since 97-98. I don't want to watch either team win. I hope it ends in a tie, and nobody wins (which I know is impossible, so re-read it with thick sarcasm).
Back to the point of the draft. I get that a good QB is what is going to lead a team to the Super Bowl. Name the last 1st Round QB to take their team to the Super Bowl? Anyone? There have been 14 in the history of the NFL. The last 3: Rothlesburger, Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning.
I don't think any of the QBs expected to go in the 1st round have the capability of being close to any of those 3. It is not a matter of where you pick a QB, as a matter of picking the right QB. I think Garoppolo fits that bill, and I think McGloin has the potential to do the same.
I still believe the game is won in the trenches. In order for the QB to be above average, you have to protect him. This is something the Raiders haven't been able to do since losing Robbins.
The 9ers prove year in and year out, that when you are aggressive on the defensive line, you can do anything. Their front 4 is amazing to watch, consistently getting pressure on the QB. If you can't do that, then you defense falls apart; and this is what has happened with the Raiders over the last 11 years.
BUT, like RM said last week; despite the losing record this year; there has been a tremendous difference in what I saw in the Raiders this year, over the last 10 years. I still think there needs to be big improvements; but I haven't seen a Raider team with this kind of spirit since Gruden. I hope changes are made, and we continue to get quality players.
Michael Oher, Eric Decker, BJ Raji, Greg Hardy or Jared Allen, Alex Mack, and Veldheer should be the Free Agents on our radar. We should also bring back C-Wood. I also wouldn't mind pursuing Jarius Byrd, Aqib Talib, Lamar Houston, Vance Walker, Usama Young, Mike Jenkins.
I say we draft a O-line or D-line with our first pick (though I am still intrigued by Marquis Lee). Just my thought.
Seven of the last eight Super Bowls were won by Joe Flacco, Eli Manning, Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers and Big Ben. All first rounders.
I'm not saying we need to reach on someone. I'm saying WE NEED TO GET IT RIGHT at this (by far) most important position. If that's in the second round, fine.
We've been screwing around at this cornerstone position for ages, and it shows. If there's one guy at QB who is "it" this year, the RAIDERS need to get him. They need to identify him and get him and get it right.
That's not asking too much, because that's their job.
We need to hold ourselves to the standards of the teams that played yesterday, not the likes of the Browns and Buccaneers.
The 8th quarterback is Drew Brees, who was taken with the first pick of the second round. You have to go back to Tom Brady to find someone outside the first 33 picks taking their team to the championship.
PS
Take:
Totally agree.
Getting it right is what counts. Our best qb since Plunklet has to be Gannon, a guy who was drafted as a db, and who had been cut at least twice.
And the conf championship games had a # 1 overall, and guys drafted in the 2nd, 3rd and 6th rounds.
Point is that RM and DA have 4 months to get it right.
Tinfoil
Yeah, Gannon was drafted in the 4th round, and more than capable of leading the Raiders to the Superbowl (twice if the refs didn't blow the call in NE).
Something to be said for a crafty veteran QB who has the wisdom of years in the league. Unfortunately, I don't think there's a viable QB option in free agency. Trent Edwards, who the Raiders just acquired, certainly isn't the answer.
If we are going to draft a QB, why not let our young QB McGloin develop? What about him did people not see promise? For being an undrafted rookie, I felt he showed incredible poise in the pocket, and saw an extreme upside to him as an above average QB.
Yes, he has to polish some things up (clock management, rookie mistakes, know what passing risks are worth taking, etc). But we are going to have to do that with a QB we draft.
What is it about Manziel, Bridgewater, Bortles, or any other QB coming into the draft screams that they would have faired better this past season? With our O-line and WRs, I don't think there is a solid vet QB that would have faired better! Yes, Palmer threw for massive yards in 2012, but we still ended up with only 4 wins. He would have continued to put up numbers had he stayed with the Raiders, but would we had more than 4 wins? I don't think we would have.
Again, what good is a QB going to do with so many holes in the offense of this team, and so many holes in the team overall? A QB is like a Head Coach, in that you are as only as good as those around you. Peyton Manning is nothing if he doesn't have the protection, or WRs that understand what he wants done. Case in point, Joe Flacco last year (2012). Look at what Big Ben has been able to do this last season with no support. He looked flat and horrible!
If we are looking to draft a QB, then I say stick with McGloin. Build a supporting cast around him, and see what he can do. I think he deserves that much.
The Raiders are not going to do much unless they build a roster worth a crap, regardless of who is QB. You have to start with the trenches, win the battle in the trenches, you win ball games period. That is really the issue that we are facing. To be quite honest, that is the same issue the Browns are facing as well. I'm not saying our entire roster is crap, but the few stand out players we have are not enough to make an impact of where we want the Raiders to be.
In a way, the Raiders had the right plan last year; stack the QB position and let the best man win the job. Of course, part of making that plan work is a well-thought selection process.
Very interesting and healthy debate about how to build a team -- in some ways a chicken before the egg type dilemma in terms of creating a platform for a QB to succeed. My hope is that Reggie has identified a QB whether that is moving up or down in the 1st round or taking a QB in the 2nd round.
I want the team to identify championship caliber players and get them. If those players are already on our roster it's just as important to identify them. We can't be throwing resources at things that aren't problems. That means QB too. If McGloin is really a championship QB, don't get another one. I saw a lot of balls that had no business being thrown, and a lot of staring down receivers. If our staff thinks those things are correctable - in the heat of battle and in just a year or possibly two - then I want them to make grooming McGloin the plan and execute it with passion.
What I don't want is some vague hope that with a top flight WR and some solid blocking he'll blossom into something he ain't right now. Hope is not a plan!
Raider Nate love your commentary but seriously dude. McGloin no way this guy is starter material. He has extremely limited upside is about 5 foot 5 tall, was averaging like 8 or 9 balls batted down per game and barely won one game last year.
No upside with that guy. The Raiders must solve their QB problem and McGloin is not it. Hell I would rather roll the dice with Pryor at least he has some skills and is an uber athlete he has a hell of a lot more upside. Don't get me wrong Pryor is not the answer either but McGloin come on journeyman at best
I think "elite" tends to announce itself fairly quickly. For example, we'd know by now if Pryor is elite. He's not. I think I've seen enough of McGloin to say he's not elite, either.
Also, here's one thing to remember about all the millions we have to spend this offseason...Money doesn't always buy happiness.
Look at the Seahawks. Many of their leaders are castoffs like Lynch and late rounders like Wilson (3rd), Sherman (5th), Chancellor (5th). Their lead receiver right now was undrafted. Their tight end used to play for the Raiders.
The Raiders just need to be super smart right now. The money definitely helps. But they also need to find some diamonds in the rough. There has been way too much rough and not enough diamonds lately.
Again, what have you seen from McGloin that screams he cannot be an above average starter that has potential to lead us to the playoffs/Super Bowl? How many "elite" NFL QBs are in the draft, or available Free Agency that you would like to sign with the Raiders?
My argument again, is not that McGloin is elite; but his poise as an undrafted rookie was phenomenal. Yes, he has some things to work on, some rookie mistakes that are coachable; but he showed promise! You don't need an "elite" QB to make it to the playoffs/Super Bowl. Look at Flacco, he is not an elite QB. Neither is Wilson, Foles, Dalton, Alex Smith, Newton, Rivers, Schaub, or Cutler; but they have all QB'd their teams to the playoffs the last few seasons; and Wilson and Flacco took them to the Super Bowl. The only "elite" QBs are Brady, both Mannings, Brees, and Rodgers.
The point I am also making is these QBs have a supporting cast around them that contribute in making plays. The Raiders don't. I'm saying if we get the supporting cast around McGloin (blocking, WRs, solid running game) and he works on his rookie mistakes; he will be above average that can lead this team. I like what I saw out of him this last season.
BTW, he is 6 ft. Yes, small for a QB, but he can get the job done.
I think McGloin should stay in the mix. Not sure I believe the same for Pryor but I like his work ethic and his athleticism.
If the Raiders can draft a viable QB option and pick up a veteran not named Trent Edwards, they will have done about all they can do this year. Unfortunately, the "right" QB for the job might not be available to the Raiders in short term. If not, it could reflect badly on McKenzie and Allen, who are quickly running out of time.
McGloin might be serviceable while the QB hunt continues.
Meanwhile, other needs can be addressed.
There are so many different ways this can go, but the central point remains the same... smart decisions need to be made.
The diamonds in the rough are the guys from smaller, non-BCS bowl type colleges or who don't fit the mold/profile or classic measurable of a QB.
Flacco and Rothlisberger came from lower profile colleges. Brees and Wilson are both 6'0".
They are out there and that is what Reggie is paid to uncover.
McGloin does not have the skills to be a starter in the NFL. Trying to put him in the same class as Rivers, Flacco, Newton, Cutler is ridiculous. Those are big strong guys who can throw the ball down the field with accuracy. Brees and Wilson are exceptions to the rule in terms of size and they are awesome athletes.
If anyone thinks the Raiders are going to go to the playoffs or even the Super Bowl with McGloin as the starter your delusional. The AFC west is loaded McGloin could not carry the jock of the QBs you mentioned.
What did he do that was so good? He won one game. Yes the supporting cast sucked but you honestly think you could put McGloin on some of the other teams you mentioned and he would do as well as a guy like Flacco or Rivers.
Poise? Like in the KC game where he threw 4 picks. He turned the ball over in every game he played except for the Houston one. Seriously WTF are you talking about? Once the NFL d-coordinators got some film on him he was useless
Raiders aren't going to the playoffs until they improve the overall talent level of the entire team in the ultimate team sport.
Whomever plays QB for the Raiders needs a rock solid OLine and skill players to succeed. The biggest factor in a QBs success is the OLine. Anyone that says differently is delusional.
McGloin showed skills beyond his pedigree, and proved to be accurate when given time to throw... lending to the point made that OL is critical to QB play.
Will McGloin become a legit NFL starter? Who knows, but I wouldn't just write him off entirely.
As of today, he’s the best QB the Raiders have...
Matt Flynn anyone? LOL.
I think the Offense is about to go through some changes as far as players go. New QB, new RB, TE, RT, RG, LG, a WR or 2....Defense will have a new CB,2/LB,D-Line.
If they can gel quickly, that will be the key to the Raiders record next year.
Allen has to have the team together and really ready to go from DAY 1 of the season.
JONES
That's 12 new starters, maybe more if we decide we need more DL help. That doesn't leave a lot of room for misses.
Is that young TE any good? Could Jennings be a keeper at RB? That leaves us with 10 new starters.
Tall order.
PS
At RT, IMO, it will be Watson starting, at CB IMO, Hayden will be a starter. At RB, need a good compliment to Jennings, to me, that would be a smaller type back who can be a very dangerous threat as a REC out of the backfield. I think with Jennings and the Kid - Murray, size is there, now a change of pace back that is scary good as a REC would really help this Offense.
TE, Rivera was a very nice surprise this year and could easily be a starter there, would like a better blocker and REC TE, but Rivera would be an excellent backup.
It is a tall order, but it is also the reality of the situation, IMO. Reggie has plenty of room to make plenty of moves and that, to me, is what is making this off season something to really watch, really see what McKenzie wants as a team moving forward. I'm not much of an off season guy, but this one is for the ages.
JONES
I don't think we need to overhaul all 12 starters on the offensive roster; but we need to add power.
For example, I think the Raiders should sign Alex Mack, Oher, and re-sign Veldheer. That would move Wiz to LG and Watson to RG; and I think that would upgrade our O-line significantly. Sure, we would need to draft some guys in those roles to provide depth as well, and maybe sign some other Free Agents to those positions.
If we keep Jennings, I would like to see us pursue someone like Ben Tate or James Starks.
We are in desperate need of a #1 WR though. I think this is as important as upgrading our O-line. Boldin and Decker are the only 2 Free Agents I would consider signing. I was impressed with Mychal Rivera at TE, dude has skills. I would also try Marcel Reece at TE if the coaches can't find a way to implement him into the offensive playbook, or maybe even as a power RB in short yardage; converting him into a Tyrone Wheatley type back. Implementing Reece into the game plan should not be this difficult, and I am extremely frustrated they couldn't do that more this last season.
We don't need a complete overhaul, but we do need to fill some key positions with above average players (i.e.-Oher and Mack). The same defensively. BJ Raji, Aqib Talib, Jared Allen, and re-signing Charles Woodson would be nice additions to the team.
Ditto that on Reece. He could be switching between FB, RB, TE, slot WR, or whatever. The potential mismatches for other teams makes him extremely valuable... but coaches have to stop promising to get him the ball and just do it!
Eric Decker is a guy I'd like to see get signed to be our #1 WR.
Regardig Matt Mcgloin.
I think what we are seeing in the NFL now, is a tale of two QB's.
Some Qb's, P. Manning, Brady, Brees, Luck, can air it out 50+ times in a game, and still win.
Most others, Kaepernick, Wilson, Newton, E. Manning, Flacco, still need a balance, and help from the running attack.
I think Mcgloin, with a really solid, consistant, running attack, can take Raiders to playoffs.
Of course all Qb's need a good 0-line.
And all SB's teams need a very good defense.
The Raiders, right now, need just about everything.
So without an Andrew Luck type QB in the draft, why not trade down, several times, gathering extra picks, and grab a QB, Garrapola, McCarron, in later rounds.
This would be bold action by Reggie, and makes the most sense given the Raiders overall lack of talent on the roster.
IMO, the NFL is making a mockery of the Pro Bowl. Sure, the PB is almost dead anyway but at least with conferences there was some division in the game worth rooting for the fans. The draft concept is a joke.
Also, news came out this morning that the Raiders are cheating their cheerleaders out of pay. A cheerleader on the Raiders gets only $1,250 and they don’t get paid until after the season is over.
$1,250? Really? The lawsuit claims that equates to below min wage.
Is this a carryover from Al Davis, or is this disaster Reggie McKenzie’s?
So, in a multi-billion dollar industry, the NFL can’t stage a decent all-star game, doesn’t pay their cheerleaders fair wage, and plans to abolish the point after. WFT? Who’s running this show.
I'd be more interested in the Pro Bowl if Raiders had anybody playing in it.
More interested in Raiders cheerleaders, if they had something to cheer about.
More interested in the point after if Raiders scored more TD's.
Who's running the show ?
The greediest of the greedy.
They don't give a wit about the fans.
Take away the TV money, and all the major sports leagues would collapse.
Look at "instant" replay coming to baseball.
I can find no baseball fans that want this.
But the powers that be, wave their hand, and it is done.
Why? Because "instant" replay, slooooooooooows the game down.
The slower the game, the more breaks in the action, while refs, or umps stare at a monitor, the more commercials get stuck in the broadcast.
The leagues survive on the big TV money from, ESPN, Fox, NBC, CBS, etc.
And all the networks get their money back, by charging huge sums for advertising during the games.
It's the model the NFL started, and all the leagues followed.
Who cares if the games are unwatchable ? Who cares about the fans ?
Look, the Ref/Ump is under the hood. Staring at a monitor.
Let's go to yet another commercial break, while they sort this all out. A big con.
I have a feeling that Goodell is wanting to change football like Selig has changed baseball, and the majority of those changes have been negative.
There is a reason why teams score more points with all the rules regarding how you can/cannot hit the QB, WRs, etc. Shut up and play the game! Players should sign a waiver claim when they sign contracts that they understand the dangers of the game, and won't pursue charges against the teams or League for any lingering effects of injuries.
Selig is the Commish that made the rule that every team has to be represented in the All-Star game, and you have to play everyone. Then after the All-Star game that ended in a tie; try to make it "worth something" by saying the winner gets home field for the World Series. Don't get me started on the Steroid Era, which if you look at it, gained traction after the '94 strike. What did Selig say after the strike, "We need to make this game more fan friendly by hitting more HRs, higher scores, more records broken, free autographs, etc." I think he pushed for players to get bigger and stronger, and is now paying the price for it.
Here's what I think needs to happen. The All Star game for baseball needs to be the first game of the pre-season. Make it a week long big deal like they do now, but at the beginning of the season, where the players are voted in on how they do for the previous season.
Football needs to do the same with the Pro Bowl, make it the Hall of Fame game; and call it the "Stars and Legends" game. Contract HoF coaches and former players to coach the two teams. How amazing would it be to see Madden square off against Ditka or Jimmy Johnson coaching an "Stars and Legends" game? EPIC! It's all about how you market the games, and MLB and NFL have done piss poor marketing here lately.
Not sure what's the best plan, but making the Pro Bowl a pick-up game between Jerry Rice and Deion Sanders probably isn't a winning formula. I think it sucks for fans.
I'm actually more blown away that the Raiders only pay cheerleaders $1,250, and withhold pay until after the season. That's shameful.
Pro Bowl, just end it already.
Oh no, the cheerleaders are unhappy with what they signed for, the sky is falling, lol.
JONES
Lol... selfish and miserable much lately, Jones?
Did they sign up for $5 per hour? While some players get $100,000 per hour.
The business aspect of football has completely taken over the sport.
I don't know NY, you seem to know more about it than I do.
The players make more, yes they do, by your 'reasoning' shouldn't the beer vendor make more too? I mean come on, lets hear it for the concession guys, they almost have to sweat, poor people....more of NY's reasoning = if I don't get upset about a few cheerleaders unhappy with their pay = I must be selfish and miserable. ....how do you tie your shoes?
JONES
Weren't some of the Raiderettes playing on our defense last year ?
And the way rules protect QB's and WR's, aren't all games going to look like the Pro Bowl ?
Jones - you’re just insensitive to the needs of hot chicks. I'm almost afraid to ask why... so I won't.
I'm so taken by the story, I did some quick research.
Cheerleader facts:
Apparently, NFL cheerleaders only get paid between about $100 to $150 per home game... there's no travel, and some teams don't have cheerleaders.
Geez, if you total up all the pay for cheerleaders on one team during a season it barley equates to a decent professional salary for one person.
Who would of thunk?
Seems like if you want to label them Football’s Fabulous Females and display their mostly naked bodies all over your overpriced pinup calendars, you could pay them a little more.
I'm just sayin'
And let me guess, NY, you are a pure ladies man, am I right? You seem more like the type that would be to pussy whipped for a 'hot' chick.
So there you go, a little research and it shows it's much about nothing.....SKY IS FALLING, lol.
JONES
Although it seems ridiculous how much the Raiderettes are paid, they willingly (At Will CA Labor Law) agreed for personal and professional reasons.
It begs the question why so many veteran Raiderettes would come back year after year if they were unsatisfied with the terms of their agreement.
Lastly, in the grand scheme of things, it should be the least of a Raider fans concerns.
Breaking News-
It has now been confirmed that Jones is the guy in Robocop who uttered the unforgettable line: "I'll buy that for a dollar!" Now back to your regularly scheduled programming.
PS- before buying a Ferrari(QB) you ought to have a damn sure safe place (O line) to park it.
Senior Bowl tomorrow. Here's a url to the list of players, including some interesting QB prospects.
http://www.seniorbowl.com/accepted-invites.php
Yahoo Sports has Raiders taking Pittsburgh's DT Aaron Donald with their second round pick #37. With the press this kid received in the last couple days, he might not last all the way to #37.
Hope Ray Guy gets inducted into the HOF ... long over-due.
My SB Prediction:
Sea-Chickens: 24
Donkeys: 20
MVP: Beast-Mode Lynch
SCAR
Congratulations Ray Guy!!
I cant understand how Andre Reed, with inferior stats, gets into the Hall of Fame over Tim Brown...Its a travesty...
SCAR
FINALLY! Ray Guy is a Hall of Famer!
Seahawks by 3. Raiders 8-8 by 2016. Out.
Congrats to Ray Guy, something that we should have said at least 10 years ago.
I agree SCAR, I don't understand how an inferior WR gets into the HOF like Reed, while Tim Brown is not.
As far as the Super Bowl, I'm hoping Lynch, Manning, R Wilson, and a few others who are on offense are injured; it becomes a defensive battle, and the winner wins by a score of 2-0; and it becomes the worst Super Bowl in NFL history.
I can care less about either team in the Super Bowl, and this will be the first time since '98 that I have not watched the Super Bowl.
With that said, the reason why I'm not watching is because I think the Donkeys will win 35-10. Nobody wants to see the Donkeys win. Nobody wants to see the Seahags win. I will not be watching either win.
GO RAIDERS! JUST WIN, BABY!
Ray guy ...... finally! Yeah, this is long overdue but with respect to the history of football, his emergence was one of its key transition towards having dedicated specialists in the roster. Not to mention, good punters make punting look easy. It is not!
As for this afternoon, looks like Denver got curb-stomped by Seattle. Dang ... Manning was never allowed to get into his groove.
Something I picked up while reading bunch of online comments related to this year's SB: a good number of AFC teams have become overrated while NFC teams have become underrated. The comparison between AFC West and NFC West shows this. In AFC West, there are 2 high scoring teams -- Denver and KC, while San Diego is also decent in scoring. However, NFC West is more D-oriented, particularly SF and Seattle. A lot of analysts stumbled for the very same reason: got too hyped by Manning, but not paid enough attention to the Seattle's D.
Way to go Donks!!!! Bring back Tebow!!!
Reggie....you are on the clock, it's going to be Raider time all off season....it's on you, Reggie. Reggie has to come through, if he doesn't, this franchise is in deep sheeeet. Screw Seattle and Denver, hardly anything super about that bowl.
JONES
I agree Jones. Reggie and the Raiders are on the clock. Seahags showed that Defense still wins, but they have play makers on offense, and are able to keep their QB upright. The battle is won in the trenches, and this is where the Raiders need to overhaul, in the trenches.
We do need a #1 WR to help teach guys how to get separation from DBs. The WRs we have do not know how to do this.
We don't need a major overhaul like we did last season, but we do need to fill some glaring holes on both sides of the ball.
JUST WIN, BABY!
Oh yeah, it will make you smile, as it did me, to know that the Doncos own 3 of the top 6 worst Super Bowl blowout losses in NFL History.
49ers - 55-10
Seahags - 43-8
Redskins - 45-10
Forget Reed & Brwon. How is Cliff Branch not in the hall ?
Branch was better than both of them.
Yeah, great to see star Qb, Manning finally exposed.
Still thinking Raiders should trade down several times, aquiring extra picks, and grab a QB in later rounds.
Here's a scary thought.
We saw how Seattle's defense knocked around the donks, and stopped them cold.
Now think about last game of Raiders vs donks.
How Manning was near flawless, as Raiders defense looked helpless.
Point is, Raiders defense seems light years away from hangin with the top teams.
So Seattle's D = dominating, compared to Raiders D = helpless.
Scary thoght.
The Donkeys offense made the vast majority of opponent's D look helpless.
Seattle's D is truly exceptional, outstanding, and elite. It is fair to put them in the conversation as 1 of the top 4 SuperBowl winning Ds of all time with the 2000/01 Ravens, 1984/1985 Bears, and 1974/1975 Steelers.
Top scoring offense, with League MVP at QB, against a top defense.
Sound familiar?
Superior mgt and coaching got Seattle where they are now... a team filled with unsung players.
Also, Seattle clearly showed how to beat Manning = pressure. Did you see the looks on Manning's face as he was being pressured? I know he is considered a great QB, no great QB is totally thrown off his game because of pocket collapse. Manning was shit scared and there were his happy feet again. Great Qb when things are going his way....total pussy when he has pressure.
So next year, I want to see the Raiders D do everything in it's power to get to Manning. Brady is the same way, get pressure on him and he folds. To me, these guys cannot be considered all time best because of it.
Seattle has drafted very well since Carroll took over. Their team is loaded with talent, has good coaching and Mngmnt, with a stable Owner. They took over a team with some talent. Carroll tore it down and brought in his own guys and has a team full of his players. This IS the formula Reggie will try to duplicate.
JONES
Seattle has UNSUNG players because they play in the NW. The mainstream media considers the NW as SIBERIA. If Seattle was in NY, those players would not be considered UNSUNG. All you would read and see is RUSSELL WILSON and BEAST MODE, SKITTLES, Sherman, on and on. They would be the best known and top ranked players in the world.
JONES
The Raiders will go nowhere till they get a qb. Seattle had talent but did not get on the right track till Wilson got there. He changed the dynamic. IF the Raiders go into the season with Pryor and especially McGlon as their QBs they will finish last again in the AFC west
Anon,
I agree that the Raiders need a QB.
But we just watched a very good QB, Wilson, and a great defense, beat a great QB, Manning,and his highly ranked offense.
Jones,
What you say about "Pressure" is true, but nothing new.
A great man once said, "The Qb must go down, and he must go down hard".
Calico,
Yeah, Manning and the donks lit up most teams.
But that last game vs Raiders was another story.
It was like practice for Manning. Fun & games without breaking a sweat.
2 incompletes, and nearly 300 yrds in one half.
Raiders defense was pathetic that day.
00...some take it better than others, others can elevate their game, some whimper...Manning is a whimperer, IMO. Russell Wilson is not one of those QB's who whimpers under pressure, he exploits it, IMO.
Mr. Davis had a great way of expressing it. One of his classic quotes.
Great pressure is the key to a great Defense, this has to be addressed this off season.
JONES
Seattle was successful because they pressed receivers at the line while applying QB pressure. Something the Raiders were successful doing on occasion, but usually didn't have the balls nor talent to do regularly.
Jones, unsung players meaning many are still in their rookie contracts, playing for far below their market value. Richard Sherman made less than $700k.
Seattle is selecting from the same talent pool as everybody else. Now that their secret is out, free agency will catch up with them and their current team will be dismantled within a couple years.
UNSUNG means that these players flew under the radar. They may have when they were picked and remain unsung because of their location. If they were a NY based team, they would not be unsung, they would have been on NFL network 20 of the 24 hrs of the day and praised as the best team ever. The world would have known every player on that team. Location, location, location.
As far as having balls, when the coach is sending more than 4 and not even getting close to the Qb. Yeah, then the bump and run can get you burnt deep. So I think it was less about balls and more about trying to survive.
JONES
Anyone seen the raiders schedule
home: San Francisco 49ers (12-4), the Arizona Cardinals (10-6), the Miami Dolphins (8-8), the Buffalo Bills (6-10). KC, SD and Den
I say they will be lucky to win 3 of those
road: Seattle Seahawks (13-3), the New England Patriots (12-4), New York Jets (8-8), St. Louis Rams (7-9), Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos (13-3), Kansas City Chiefs (11-5) San Diego Chargers (9-7).
2 wins perhaps if the Browns game is early in the season
Okay 5 wins that is improvement right lol
Raiders Sign Kory Sheets! Bye Bye McFaggot, I've been done with that story a long time ago! Great value pickup Reggie!! Keep it going!!!
Anon.,
I'm glad the Raiders have a tough schedule.
Time to stop the excuses, and step up their game. Start to compete with the big boys.
But i would think D.A. has to pull out 8 wins somehow, to save his butt.
In my dream scenario the Raiders are able to get Clowney then trade back up for Bortles . . .
That scenario leaves us with no other draft picks.
I'd be happy to trade down from the #5 pick, take G Greg Robinson in Rd 1, then DT Aaron Donald in Rd 2.
seriously ny raider and who is playing qb?
we have a left tackle you why go after Robinson he will go top ten so trade down a couple of spots for what an extra 3
Raiders are decimated they need a star or someone to give a modicum of hope
that is bridgewater, manziel or clowney anything else ehhh
its sad 8-8 for the raiders would be astounding in reality in the afc west 6 wins would be overachieving this year
last two years and then this one coming up also will be terrible this is the lowest point in Raider history, no direction no soul and most importantly and absolute dog shit roster. not to mention a coach who is a nobody. Wow depressing
Bortles might not be the answer either.
Sorry but if my options are to trade my entire 2014 stock of draft picks (and probably some in 2015) to trade up for two players, or acquire much needed line help on both sides of the ball while trading down and acquiring more draft picks... that's a no-brainer!
Mario Williams was never a savior for Huston, and they had a QB.
McKenzie has said in the past that you build a team from the lines, then he selected a CB with his top in 2013.
Sure, the Raiders need CBs too, but this year he can make up for that temporary setback by bolstering the lines... the importance of which was never better illustrated than in this year's Super Bowl. That's where games are won and lost.
that should read, "Houston"
QB is the most important position and its not even close. In the last ten years every superbowl winner has had an elite pro bowl type qb.
The Bucs in 2003 one with a middling qb Rob Johnson and the NFL is way different today than back then. Today's NFL is all about throwing the ball period---come on NY get with it.
Without a quality QB the Raiders are doomed. Until that is addressed they will suck. They need to make a bold and aggressive move to get their QB
No team has won a SB by trading away its draft picks. Also, it's not smart to select a QB for the sake of it. You need the right one. If that individual isn't available, you make other choices that make sense for your development.
This year offers a very short list of free agent QB talent, and a small pool of college talent.
If you think you found your guy in Bortles, then root him in. But trading up to take Clowney and Bortles is not viable. Honestly, no GM is that dumb.
The Raiders would have to trade up to get Clowney, then trade back into the top half of the 1st round to get Bortles. How does that possibly make sense?
Here's a url to a common chart used to value picks for trades, etc. You do the math!
http://www.draftcountdown.com/features/Value-Chart.php
I would love to see Jason Campbell back at QB. There is talk about how the Raiders are looking for a vet QB, like McCown, Schaub, Vick, and even Mark Sanchez. I shuddered just then.
But Campbell is being overlooked in most of these media speculations. He fit well with the Raiders, true, he had Hue as OC; but he did well.
The only concern is that if we bring him back, we better have a backup.
NYC who is talking about Bortles except you? I would trade up to get Bridgewater for sure and perhaps Manziel.
No team has won a superbowl by trading its draft picks how about the NY Giants trading up to get Eli. Or the cowboys trading multiple picks for Charles Haley
Its bad enough when you make your usual broad sweeping statements that are milquetoast at best, please at least check you facts next time
Bottom line the Raiders will be shit to mediocre at best until they solve the qb problem
SCAR
Do I take 5 stud offensive linemen over 1 stud qb? All day every day and twice on sundays. Enough of mortgaging the future on one guy. Football is a team game. 11 players. The line makes the rb better which makes the qb better which makes the wr better, which makes the te better, which makes the line better and its completely interchangeble.
If the right qb is there take him. If not, keep building the pieces to a championship calibre team...That is the goal isn't it?
Where the Raiders are at is building foundation. If Reggie cant build this team to a better more competitive level next year, then he is on the hot seat. If DA cant get this team to perform with the talent at hand then he will be on the hot seat.
SCAR
I think the question is, is there an Andrew Luck type Qb in this draft ?
I believe the answer is, no.
In that case, none of the top 3 Qb's, Bridgewater, Manziel, or Bartles, is worth trading up for.
The 2nd question is, what if one of the Qb's, falls to #5. Should Raiders take them ?
Now we have to ask ourselves, is this the guy to lead the offense for next 10 yrs. or is it better to trade down, getting extra picks, and building up a roster that is weak all over ?
I say trade down. the 5 to 10 extra picks is more valuable than any of these Qb's.
And Raiders could still land a solid QB, in later rounds, and would have the extra picks to do it.
Some interesting articles on NFL.com about "Potential Cap Casualties". Jason Campbell is mentioned as being a possible casualty in Cleveland. If that is the case, I would welcome him back to Oakland in a heart beat! I thought he was shown the door too quickly.
Michael Bush and Julius Peppers are also being reported to be potential cuts. I'd welcome that.
The most surprising report is that Roddy White is on the hotseat in Atlanta, not because of his recent arrest; but because he may be unwilling to take a Terrell Suggs type pay cut. If he is unwilling to do so, Atlanta may be forced to cut him. That would be HUGE for the Raiders if we could pursue Roddy White to be our #1 WR.
Mikel LeShoure is another name that I'd be interested in seeing in Oakland if he is cut.
So I'm not so much excited about the undie olympics of the scouting combine; as I am of salary casualties and free agency. I think we could pick up some proven players in this arena. Jason Campbell would be a huge upgrade, and again, after what he did before Palmer, I would definitely welcome him back at QB. We would just need a solid backup behind him because he has proven to be injury prone (say Schaub or Matt Moore?).
I agree with SCAR, that the Raiders should use the draft to build on their foundation. The foundation to every team is in the trenches, and the trenches on both sides of the ball are the weakest for the Raiders. We need younger players with experienced vets to form these lines. Oher and Alex Mack would be awesome in helping Wiz and other young players develop. Especially if we can bring Veldheer back. Then they can focus on drafting young Guards.
If they sign a good pass rusher along with Houston, then we can also use the draft to focus on WR like Marquis Lee, unless the Falcons dump White and the Raiders pick him up. Then the focus should be all on the lines and DBs in the draft.
New take is up.
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