Musgrave Out?
ProFootballTalk is reporting that Bill Musgrave is out as OC of the Raiders.
I wonder if the playcalling in the Wild Card game had anything to do with it. Yeah, when you're playing a rookie QB in his first start in an important game, you have to start conservative. But when you fall behind and conservative ain't working, you need to star mixing it up and taking your shots before the lead is so great that the opposing defense can afford to just hang back like vultures.
Anyhow, football debate is great because it's so open to devil's advocacy. Brady wouldn't be great with out Belichick! Oh, yeah? Belichick wouldn't be great without Brady! Ezekiel and Dak are sensational--or maybe they're just products of their offensive line? On and on it goes.
So after the Raiders took a major step forward on offense this year, was it all Derek Carr (it sure looked like it once he was absent), or was Musgrave pulling some effective strings, and if so, what do we stand to lose (or gain) now that he's out?
The rumor mill says that QB coach Todd Downing could take the OC reins. Something about all of this seems strange, but we may never know the whole story. Anyhow, whoever assumes the role will be expected to raise an already high bar starting next September.
I wonder if the playcalling in the Wild Card game had anything to do with it. Yeah, when you're playing a rookie QB in his first start in an important game, you have to start conservative. But when you fall behind and conservative ain't working, you need to star mixing it up and taking your shots before the lead is so great that the opposing defense can afford to just hang back like vultures.
Anyhow, football debate is great because it's so open to devil's advocacy. Brady wouldn't be great with out Belichick! Oh, yeah? Belichick wouldn't be great without Brady! Ezekiel and Dak are sensational--or maybe they're just products of their offensive line? On and on it goes.
So after the Raiders took a major step forward on offense this year, was it all Derek Carr (it sure looked like it once he was absent), or was Musgrave pulling some effective strings, and if so, what do we stand to lose (or gain) now that he's out?
The rumor mill says that QB coach Todd Downing could take the OC reins. Something about all of this seems strange, but we may never know the whole story. Anyhow, whoever assumes the role will be expected to raise an already high bar starting next September.
posted by Raider Take at 7:49 PM
148 Comments:
Strange indeed. I had a love/hate feeling with Musgraves. But if you're going to fire an OC, don't you want to upgrade from what you had? Downing, a QB Coach? Why not hire Mike McCoy (former HC for SD) for OC? I know he would be considered for a HC somewhere again, but take advantage and let Downing gain some more experience. I'd be down with that (as long as he keeps the other coaches). Downing has had 4 or 5 offers for OC in College and NFL though, Carr likes him, and the Raiders need Carr. I still think McCoy would be awesome and probably better. But we will see.
I was irked with Musgraves the last 2 games. A rookie QB faces 2 of the toughest defenses in the league and he goes conservative? How do you slow down speedy, tough defenses? McCarthy and Rodgers gave the answer, quick slants and outs. This moves the LB's back and the Safeties in to set up running game and deep throws. Quick slants and outs also give the QB and WRs rhythm with each other, and helps a rookie QB not read the defense as much. This will be the game plan of the Patriots to slow down the Texans, as well as the Packers to slow down Dallas.
I also blame him somewhat for Carr's injury too. Why didn't he call more running plays with that kind of lead? A balanced attack of run/pass could have helped prevent his injury.
Raiders also let go the DB Coach Marcus Robertson that CWood liked.
RT, this definitely falls under conjecture. IMO, Raiders should have concerns with both their coordinators, but Musgrave may have shown his colors more, particularly during Carr's two-game absence.
Musgrave played right into the Broncos and Texans defenses. He regularly ran on first downs for little to no gain, and put the Raiders in long passing downs. Teams stacked the box (with as many as 10 defenders on first downs), mostly leaving WRs in single man coverage.
In some ways, I think Carr was successful despite Musgrave. However, I understand wanting to replace him from within the org. Bringing an outside OC would necessitate an all new staff, probably something Carr does not want given his ability to work within the current system... again, despite Musgrave's game planning.
JDR was mildly but often critical of the conservative play calling on offense, saying they needed to get off to faster starts. Yet, the Raiders more often started slow, and only got things going when Carr took charge of the game.
Another thing to consider is that neither backup QB was ready to play when Carr went down. That issue extends to the QB coach as well.
The whole thing is a head-scratcher, particularly since most of the Nation is probably pointing a finger at Norton.
I had a "Memory" pop up from today (Jan 11th) in 2012. This is the day that the Raiders hired Reggie McKenzie as GM. This is what I wrote on Facebook that day:
My thoughts on the Raiders' hiring Reggie McKenzie is to rewrite "The Autumn Wind" ( I call it "The Sea of Change"):
The autumn wind is changing, the pirates are heading back out to sea, with a will in their eye, a spring in their step, they set the sails for victory.
His ship is weather beaten, but his cannons set to attack. He rallies his men, positioned to win, and lets everyone know, "We're Back!"
There is a groan throughout the country, a new fear of the villian of old. And the League quietly shakes and quiver and quakes, trying to hide their gold.
The autumn wind is a Raider, ready to pillage once again.
Riding the seas of change with laughter and cries of "JUST WIN!"
Looks like Musgraves and Mike McCoy will be interviewing for the OC in Dunver. Vance Johnson is the new HC in Dunver, and Wade Phillips (according to Vic Tafur) is waiting to hear about San Diego HC, as Ian Rappaport is saying Joe Woods will be the new DC in Dunver. Musgraves is also linked to the HC job at Cal.
In all the coaches openings (HC, OC, DC), I find it interesting that these names do not appear: Jeff Fisher, Wade Phillips, Mike McCoy, Todd Haley (OC, Pittsburgh), Rex Ryan (can you imagine him in LA with the Rams?), Dean Pees (DC, Baltimore), Brian Schottenheimer (QB Coach, Baltimore), Pep Hamilton (Browns OC), Mike Shula (QB Coach, Carolina), John Mitchell (Asst HC, Pittsburgh), Mike Munchak (OLine coach, Pittsburgh), or Harold Goodwin (AZ OC)
If Raiders are prepared to promote QB coach Downing to OC, there must be something to it. Nobody is closer to the 'truth' than JDR. There's certainly no five-alarm going on here. The Raiders remain strong with foundation, particularly with franchise players at QB and DE. IMO, the key will be adding competent personnel to improve RT, DL, LB and CB.
I think the Musgrave release must be political or a personality thing. I think he did a good job with the offense look at the scoring, the stats and the record.
NY, Nate unlike you guys I don't blame him for what happened the last two games. The offensive line played awful and McGloin and Carr did also. You can not blame the offensive coordinator for that. Neither QB had time to throw and when they id they could not complete a pass play calling was not an issue.
In fact the entire team fell apart. I would blame JDR more than Musgrave for not address the morale issues that were evident the last two weeks.
Norton sucks and should be gone. Bottom quarter in defense, last in sacks, I don't know how we won 12 games with that defense. Oh yeah it was the offense.
Regards
Sandy
Sandy, I think the play calling on offense speaks for itself, particularly in the last two games. Musgrave often was too conservative early in games - something JDR harped on many times at pcs. He played right into the defense of both the Broncos and the Texans. It's fair to suggest the line underperformed, but remember too that Carr has among the fastest releases in the NFL.
Also, I read somewhere JDR suggested replacing Cook with McGloin (pulling all the stops) in the Texans game and was talked out of it, presumably by Musgrave. Even if McGloin flopped, at least the Raiders would have tried. Cook had like 4 completions for less than 50 yards in the first half.
All said, I agree Norton should have been at greater risk, so politics and/or personality comes into play.
IMO, both backup QBs should have been better prepared. Both held the ball too long and both struggled to run the Raiders most basic offensive alignments.
McGloin will be gone, but Cook needs to be better to be a legit primary backup. The Raiders might draft again and, from what I've seen, it won't take much to supplant Cook.
Chargers made it official... moving to LA. That option is now off the table for the Raiders.
Chargers were in SD for 56 years, and left with sour grapes. What a shame!
Oakland/Alameda should start preparing for the same void in its community.
The big difference, however, is that the Raiders franchise will likely be at its height, with only a new stadium holding them back. Remember, the Raiders (and Davis) intend to rent from Oakland until a new stadium is built (2019). Wishful thinking says the Raiders will be playing to win it all sometime over the next 2-3 years... about the time they say, adios.
Sucks, but it's hard to imagine any other scenario for Oakland right now. They are too blind to see the nose in front of their face. So, sometime soon there will be a lot a millionaires moving out of Oakland.... which is no Hollywood!
Mark sat around and waited on LA he should have been aggressive and move there years ago. LA would have been far better than Vegas
The NFL is ridiculous LA belongs to the Raiders and they are without a doubt of the 3 that wanted to go there the one team that would have been successful there is the raiders.
Don't know what Spanos is thinking for an extra 175 mm he could have stayed in SD with his own stadium. Good thing the Chargers are playing in a 35k stadium they will have a hard time drawing more fans that that. No one cares about the Chargers in LA.
At least the Raiders will get an extra home game every year in LA
Regards
Sandy
Sandy,
Spanos didn't have an extra $175mm, and the League wouldn't help him with it (much like the Raiders in Oakland), and he'd be forced to find someone to help finance his stadium for a % of ownership (just like the Raiders and Mark Davis).
The real problem facing the Chargers and Raiders is the State of California is so tax heavy that nobody wants to pay more taxes to keep a sports franchise. I think the move to Vegas (if it happens) will attract more Free Agents to come play for the Raiders. I'm still not sold that the Vegas move is a done deal with the League owners. I still have a feeling they are going to try and force Mark Davis to sell. If the League forces Mark to stay in Oakland, I bet he reaches out to the 9ers about sharing Levi Stadium.
Even if the Chargers didn't make the move to LA, Kroenke would have fought the Raiders from moving in his stadium. He made it absolutely clear he did not want the Raiders as a stadium partner. Either way, it's not an easy road for the Raiders.
Jerry McDonald asked on Twitter what the fall out would be with the Chargers moving to LA? I responded, "There will be no fall out as the Chargers didn't have fans in San Diego either." HEYOH!
Nate
Spanos family is worth at least 2.5 billion. Also unlike Mark they have other business besides such as real estate that produces cash flow. He easily could have found the extra money. It was his greed that made him leave San Diego and though the Chargers are a rival I feel for the people of San Diego. Just as I will Oakland when the Raiders leave for Vegas.
I am against Vegas because I do not think they can build a fan base there and I can not see more than 10-15k Raider fans travelling there every weekend.
Spanos just like all the other a-hole owners of NFL franchises want the cities to pay for their stadiums. I commend SD for saying no and given Oakland is laying off police and need teachers, I applaud them as well. Ross tried the same thing down here in Miami but the county told him to shove it and lo and behold he came up with the 500mm in improvements himself.
I love the Raiders and enjoy the NFL but the stadium game has gotten ridiculous and is just another extension of the greed and evilness that the NFL has become.
Regards
Sandy
The process in Oakland is a bit more perplexing because the city/county own the land on which the stadium would be built, and they want a premium price for it. They disguised the high land cost by saying they would put that money into infrastructure improvements.... but the net cost to the city/county is zero! It's basically the same deal they've offered from the start. Nothing!
It just seems like there are so many economic benefits to NFL communities, e.g., jobs, sales and income taxes, that teams deserve a bit more than nothing.
For me, it's much easier to fly to Vegas than Oakland, but I don't want the Raiders to leave Oakland.
Sandy,
Spanos family is worth that much, which means if he sold all his assets he would have that cash. Owning a multi-million $$ business, you cannot afford to dump your assets as that is what keeps you going and earning interest to continue your business. So even $175mm is a lot of foundational assets you have to sell and eventually replace if you are going to stay solvent as a multi-billion $$ company.
With that said, I agree with you in principal though, if he really wanted to stay, he could have found ways to stay. I feel more bad for San Diego than I do Oakland, because San Diego did everything they could to keep the Chargers. The reason the tax didn't fly in San Diego though is because nobody really cares about the Chargers. You can walk all around San Diego and be hard pressed to find a Chargers jersey. But Spanos thinks he can change his team's persona in Los Angeles, but guess what, just like the Rams in LA, nobody cares about the Chargers there either. I like how the media found a bunch of Raiders fans to act like Chargers fans burning Charger gear.
Oakland hasn't done as much to keep the Raiders, especially after the "Al" section that is never used. That is a big part of the problem in all of this with Oakland, they are still paying for that unused monstrocity and now the Raiders are asking for more public funding for a new stadium on a city/county strapped for cash because they are over-taxed. So in a way, their hands are tied in that area. At the same time, they have done nothing to upkeep what they have. Which is a problem when you let government run things, which is why I'm not a fan of "Socialism". Not only is Oakland/Alameda about to lose the Raiders, the Golden State Warriors just broke ground for a new stadium yesterday as well. Pretty soon the A's will leave too, and then Oakland will have nothing. It's a no-win situation in Oakland for the Raiders. Yet I still think this "Vegas" deal is not going to be approved by the owners.
So now let's talk draft! I'm torn as to what the Raiders do in the draft. Do they go after a young MLB, CB/S, a DT, or OT (for both left and right). I say they go after a DT or OT because they are all about building the trenches. I think Jonathan Allen would be ideal, but I'm not sure he will be there at the bottom of the draft. So do we trade up, or go with the flow? I don't think Reg trades up. Malik McDowell may be the only other 1st rounder at DT from Mich State. I'm reading some good things, some not so good things about him. Positives: good speed, good QB pressure, very disruptive (WalterFootball.com). Excellent change of direction with violent hands (NFL.com). Negatives: you see a player stand straight up and get blocked by far less talented players. He picks and chooses when he wants to cut it loose (NFL.com).
In the second round, I'd watch for the names Adoree Jackson (CB, USC), Jarrad Davis (MLB, Bama), TJ Watt (ILB/OLB, Wisconsin), and Garrett Bolles (OT, Utah). I like what I read about Bolles. NFL.com says, "He has good size and length for the position. In pass protection, he is quick out of his stance and bends naturally. He has a sharp, tight punch and a firm anchor. He does get caught oversetting at times, which produces some inside pressure on the quarterback. He has good football awareness considering his limited experience. In the run game, he has knock-off power and shows some nastiness to finish to and through the whistle." His only knock is that he is 25.
It will be interesting to see what happens at the Sr Bowl, the undergrad game, and the combine. I will be watching to see who rises and falls in the next few months.
Nate,
Thanks for the feedback. Nor sure what socialism has to do with anything the issue is no city should be giving hand outs or even helping billionaires with stadiums.
The main reason the vote did not work in SD is because Spanos was pushing for a downtown stadium a ridiculous idea vs using all the land around Qualcomm.
The owners will approve Vegas for the simple reason if there is a city foolish enough to pay to build a stadium the owners will run to it. LA is turning into a disaster for the NFL.
No way Allen is going to be available at the bottom he is probably top 5. Reggie does not strike me as someone to trade up.
Pressure is on Reggie to get this draft right which is difficult to do when picking low. The Mack Carr draft was sensational. Last year was mediocre as was the free agent signings with the exception of Oso.
Regards
Sandy
Sandy,
Just to clarify:
"The main reason the vote did not work in SD is because Spanos was pushing for a downtown stadium a ridiculous idea vs using all the land around Qualcomm."
Qualcomm is nowhere near San Diego metropolis though. San Diego did it for the Padres, even gave them a stadium on the coast near the convention center (where the famous San Diego Comic Con is held). Spanos wanted downtown to give/get more of a presence in the city. You couldn't even take a city bus from the downtown/convention center area to Qualcomm. This is the area where most people who visit San Diego go. So if you were visiting the city and wanted to go to a Chargers game, you had to rent a car, take a taxi, or bum a ride from someone you don't know. Pretty miserable way to try and market your team to a city you didn't really have a "presence" in. It was a reasonable request by Spanos.
My socialism comment was more about the city/county governments owning the land and stadium where the A's, Raiders, and Warriors currently are. You cannot rely on government to get anything right, let alone owning the stadium. They should outright sell it to these 3 teams and let them work it out themselves, and then they could have something state of the art, and benefit from the business. It is the principle the US was built on that the state of California cannot comprehend: "Keep government out, and let them be mediators and representatives."
The Raiders have officially filed relocation papers with the League. Should be a March vote. (Thurs, Jan 19th @ 11:32 am CST)
Oakland can't even find it in their hearts to charge the Raiders fair market value for the underlying land on which a stadium would be built. They spiked the price to cover infrastructure costs, then claim to be donating the infrastructure. The offer is insulting.
Hundreds of millions of dollars toward a $1.9B state-of-the-art stadium is a tough carrot to pass up when nothing (zero!) is the option. So the Raiders can either win the lottery.... or they can not win the lottery.
I don't see how the NFL can legally stop the move. AL made sure of that!
NY,
The NFL Owners can stop the move in a smaller market, when they have had the lowest ratings in decades, and when a lot of the "Traveling taxes" to pay for the stadium are based on at least 20,000 fans traveling to Vegas to watch the Raiders play every week. I know the Raiders have the best traveled fans, but I don't think 20,000 fans are going to travel every home game to watch the Raiders, and be taxed at a 7% higher rate.
Even now, the Raiders and the State of Nevada are still hammering out all the details and even the casino dude is starting to back off because he knows it is not a good deal.
Compare that with Oakland, who hasn't really offered anything, and Ronnie Lott's group has been extremely quiet. In a market that is considerably larger than Vegas, and something is a brewin'. I wouldn't count them out yet, and the Vegas deal is on shaky ground. I saw a video yesterday of a news report where the reporter claimed "several" owners weren't impressed with the Vegas plan. We will see in a month what happens.
I have no doubt the owners can vote against the move, but I think AL proved they can't legally stop it.
And while the resident population of Vegas is relatively small, few destinations in the world can compare. 42 million people per year visit Vegas. That's more than 2x Loudon.
So I don't think the Raiders need 20k fans to travel. Vegas has a built-in transient audience. Also, I would expect some hotels and other businesses to purchase blocks of season tickets for their clients and guests.
Vegas money is unlimited, and largely untapped by the NFL... but you can be sure the intrigue exists.
IMO, the biggest hurdle for Davis is the relocation fee which the NFL will want to impose.
All i know is, Vegas is planning to build a domed stadium. Only one team that plays under dome has ever won a super bowl, Saints.
Not liking this idea at all.
NY,
You really think casinos want people going to a game for 5 hours vs being in the casino gambling or at the restaraunts and bars in the hotel? I don't think so. I can't see casinos giving away tickets
Regards
Sandy
That sounds reasonable but it also suggests resort hotel casinos are dumb enough to believe that because they don't offer Raiders' packages, their guests won't attend the games?
IMO, it's another mousetrap for casinos in a hypercompetitive market. Also, NFL games are a daytime event, when lots of hotel guests are poolside, or on other casino-sponsored tours, like the Hoover Dam or Grand Canyon. (I think you and I would rather see the Raiders!)
Tough to speculate, but it might be that casinos which don't offer tx will be behind the curve.
Rams won the Super Bowl while playing in a dome stadium.
I'm still not sold on Vegas, and don't think he has enough votes to relocate. I don't see casinos giving away tickets because of Aldeson's involvement (he has to make money too). If it gets approved, I see tickets being part of a hotel package though. The problem though is attendance to NFL games have been in a steady decline the last 3-5 years. The tax money is based on 20,000 fans per week traveling to Vegas for 25-30 years. I don't think this is reasonable based on the fact that the last 10 years, Vegas has deliberately moved away from being "family friendly" while people want to take their families to games. This explains why there is a decline in attendance across the League because they want to market to both the family and coporation. I think a move to Vegas further alienates the families/individuals from going to the games.
I agree. Tx are more likely to be part of packages. It's potentially a big marketing tool to get room nights and gaming activity.
Its a catch 22, if locals end up supporting the team they don't get tax dollars from tourists. Have you guys ever heard of a team wanting to build a fan base based on tourists/out of towners? Sounds ass backwards to me.
NFL total joke, the Raiders should have been in LA, Rams stay in St. Louis and Chargers in SD. Somehow after 20 years without a team the nfl has screwed up and put two teams in LA that nobody in LA cares about--lol
Hopefully Raiders are forced to stay in Oakland. The more I think about the more I think Vegas is a mistake.
Regards
Sandy
Furthermore, Inglewood is a terrible place to build a stadium. Basically in that area you have hispanic and korean immigrants or rich Hollywood types none of who would go to a game. Add ot that 747 flying over the stadium all game long.
The best site in LA is Anaheim, its near suburban fans of orange county and the inland empire and plenty of hotels because of disney nto to mention like 5 highways intersect there.
Good night
Sandy
Relocation fee to move to LA was $550k. That's like Davis's entire bank roll. Even if the owners vote yes to the Vegas move, they will want to squeeze Davis. So folks may get their wish for the Raiders to stay in Oakland after all.
Raiders need a new stadium. It probably boils down to Davis accepting the notion of selling a portion of his interest... regardless where it's built.
With Adelson pulling out, it looks like Vegas could be in trouble. Unless per NY comment Davis is willing to get a partner. No way Davis can come up with 1.15 bln plus the relocation fee.
I would like him to find a partner in Bay area like Larry Ellison and stay and build a stadium there.
BTW no tears shed on Adelson that prick he can now go back to using his money to support right wing lunatic political candidates
Regards
Sandy
Davis needs leverage to make his best deal in Oakland. Losing options in LA and Vegas will hurt Davis with any negotiations.
Meanwhile, Davis does have a few sources of outside money to stay in Oakland. One from the NFL stadium program. Also from fees paid by the Rams and Chargers for their relocations. Not sure what the Raiders share would be, but they should receive compensation for getting denied the LA market in favor of Rams and Chargers.
What about sharing (renting) the stadium with the 49ers? What's anyone's take on that?
Sandy, I agree with Adelson out it is going to be an uphill fight for Davis, even though he claims that Goldman Sachs is going to front what Adelson backed out of. The problem I have with that is Goldman Sachs was bailed out in 2008 and 2010 by former Presidents Bush and Obama. These guys can't even manage their own investments properly without government bailouts. So the bottom line, Goldman Sachs will be using taxpayer money nationwide they received (twice) from the government to help build a stadium. Grrrr, that "chaps my hide" (as John Wayne would say). Now I am really pulling for this deal to lose.
NY, I'm opposed to the Raiders renting with the 49ers, plus I don't think the organizations like each other very much, and am not sure that will work out. Why not try and rent from Cal-Berkley? Or Spartan Stadium in San Jose, or Bulldog Stadium in Fresno? Or even Stanford? I'd even prefer them leasing Qualcomm in San Diego before sharing with the 40-Whiners. There are other options that they have, but something needs to be done.
Now that the Warriors broke ground on their new stadium in SF, if I were the Oakland/Alameda authorities, I would work with the A's about tearing down the arena and building a baseball stadium (55,000) similar to what the old coliseum looked like. I would then tell the Raiders to use some of their $500 million to pay off the remainder of what is due on Mount Al Davis, and then use some other funds to make it into a football only stadium and help them with renovations to make it better. I would also make it into a "City Walk" with hotels and shops, as well as build a tail-gating park where spots are sold to season ticket holders. Each spot would have a bbq pit or grill, grass, and picnic table/benches. There would also be several volleyball courts, and other game areas. Win-win!
Nate, I think Goldman is pulling out as well. Don't get me started on the bailouts its too long a conversation lol.
Back to football, San Diego Raiders just does not do it for me and Mark has no desire to be a tenant of 49ers.
The way I see it I think Mark has screwed himself partly through his own inaction and the other part which is beyond his control is he just does not have enough money.
Let's review.
LA, Mark should have been aggressive early on and claimed a first mover advantage, he was late to the dance and then teamed up with the Chargers vs. the richer more powerful partner in Kroenke.
49ers, they came to Mark way back at the beginning before they had any idea Levi stadium would be successful. If he had put aside his father's petty legacy of hating the 49ers he could have developed a stadium with them as equal partners.
Oakland Coliseum the worst stadium in North American professional sports a toilet. There is no fixing it.
Mark is screwed he does not have the money to build a stadium, and thankfully most cities are getting wise to the sleezyness that is the NFL stadium game so no one will build one for him. At the same time he does not want to sell part or majority of the team.
On another subject, what are your guys opinion on our own FA? I say try and resign McGee, Watson, Allen, Murray Holmes and Riley at reasonable contracts.
The the Raiders should target in FA a DT, MLB and CB in that order.
Regards,
Sandy
What happened here am I the only one who thinks Mark is a duntz?
Regards
Sandy
MD definitely could have handled things better but I believe the city/county stabbed him in the back and showed him to the door. IMO any community has something to gain by hosting an NFL team (e.g., business expansion, jobs, sales and income tax revenues, community outreach by players, etc.) and there should be some give and take. The standing offer to overcharge for stadium land is a joke, even if some or all of that money goes toward infrastructure.
On the flip side, Davis needs help, and will probably need to sell part of his ownership. This is where the rubber meets the road.
NY, I agree with you on the vast majority of your points but I do not believe cities should offer one penny to owners to build stadiums. Any penny spent on a stadium is one less to a teacher, fireman, new road, wi-fi for all etc etc. The economic benefit of having a team is minuscule compared to the return on investment in schools, feeding homeless, infrastructure I could go on.
On another note this is a great video reviewing 2016, too bad the ending sucks
Regards
Sandy
Sandy, it seems Oakland/Alameda side with you. The proposal is more of an offer to leave than it is to stay. No matter how you slice it, Raiders are in a bad place, with very few options.
Sandy...don't be so down on the "San Digo Raiders". It may turn out to be Mark Davis' best/only option.
If Raiders can get a new stadium in SD, I'm all for it. Many positivs to consider. Raiders stay on west coast. Won't have to play under a crappy dome. Raiders already have a natural fan base there. I think it could work out, though it may take some time.
Best of all, when Chargers flop in L.A. market, a return to SD would not be possible. Where will they end up ? Just look at the map. NFL owners running out of places to go.
Sorry guys I forgot to attach this link to my last comment.
Nate I feel almost as unenthusiastic about SD as Vegas. The only positive is they have a base of fans there as you point out
https://www.reddit.com/r/oaklandraiders/comments/5s429m/dont_know_if_this_has_been_posted_but_its_a_2/?st=IYSXZYXT&sh=64428aa3
Regards
Sandy
Kurt Warner, & Terrell Davis make hall of fame. Anyone think this will open the door again for Jim Plunkett & Cliff Branch ?
Warner, I believe, played in 3 super bowls and was 1-2. Plunkett was 2-0.
Davis played in only 78 NFL games, and won 2 SB's. Branch had a long, productive career, and won 3 SB's.
I can't see how Warner & Davis can go in the hall, while Plunkett & Branch are left out. Doesn't make sense to me.
RaiderOO, how does Jerry Jones make it to HOF before Tom Flores? Deplorable.
Sandy,
Read this article about why the Adelson's pulled out of the stadium deal. It seems those negotiating for Mark Davis reneged on the original agreement.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/nfl-vegas/adelson-spokesman-withdrawal-stadium-project-raiders-were-picking-his-pocket
Thanks Nate,
I am sure Mark was getting pressure from the league to drop Adelson. Beyond that though this sure looks like another bungled opportunity by Mark. He seems to have little practical business experience.
Regards,
Sandy
In other news, Aldon Smith is being investigated by the SFPD for a "domestic incident" this past Saturday. He was not arrested, but this doesn't bode well since he hasn't been reinstated yet. If he's found guilty, kiss him goodbye. Man, I hope this is not the case though, but it wouldn't surprise me.
If we lose A Smith, I think Calais Campbell would be a good option as well (because Chandler Jones will be tagged). But the problem on the D-line are the Tackles. They've done a great job stuffing the run, but we need someone who is going to disrupt the pass too. Dontari Poe would be awesome, but I think he's going to get the tag. I'm surprised the Raiders haven't used more stunts up the middle to disrupt the QB pocket.
I'd like to see Perry Riley re-signed, he did awesome at MLB for us. But I know he needs some help too. Jamie Collins would be a good pick up. I'm ok with giving Sean Smith another year, because the first year in a new system is always tough. I thought he pulled himself together better toward the end of the season and worked really hard.
Aldon Smith isn't smart enough to stay out of trouble. It seems to find him. If this story is true, Raiders should cut bait, quickly.
As for the other Smith, speedy WRs are a mismatch for Sean Smith. I'd be afraid to leave him out there again without having his replacement on the roster. He got burned too many times. At one point he was replaced by Hayden. That kinda speaks for itself.
IMO, Riley is serviceable, but an upgrade would be very welcome. Mack and Irvin were the only stars on defense; both capable of taking over games at times. Everyone else is expendable. Edwards, Jr. is good when he plays, but he's another M Watson..., always injured. I believe it was discovered that he had a chronic injury when the Raiders drafted him.
Malcolm Smith has his moments, but he's mostly been a disappointment. He disappears for games at a time.
I would say Nate Allen played better than Karl Joseph, but Joseph deserves more time to develop.
Lots to do.
So there is a 4 round mock draft on nfl.com. I like the guys first pick for the Raiders, DT Caleb Brantley (Florida). However, he had a RB, OT, and WR in next 3 Rounds, which I disagree with.
If we don't go Brantley in the first round (which is a good possibility), we should definitely target a Middle Linebacker. I also like Adoree Jackson (CB, USC) here in the first round. So the Raiders definitely have their options.
In the second round, I target the same positions (DT, MLB, and CB/DB) like Carlos Watkins (DT, Clemson), Jabril Peppers (S, Mich), Jarrad Davis (ILB, Florida), Gareon Conly (CB, Ohio St), and maybe Ryan Anderson (OLB, Bama).
The third round, I may target a RB here, maybe an ROT, but mostly I'm looking for defensive depth, and O-line in the draft. Zach Banner (OT, USC), Roderick Johnson (OT, FSU), Joe Mathis (OLB, Washington), Elijah Qualls (DT, Washington), maybe Corey Clement (RB, Wisconsin) or Charles Walker (DT, Oklahoma).
Similar feeling in the 4th round, maybe target a WR like Chad Williams (Grambling), KD Cannon (Baylor), or Chad Hansen (Cal). Realistically, I'd still target DT, MLB, OLB, CB/DBs.
Interesting situation arises. Would you let L-Train Murray walk in Free Agency for a chance to sign Adrian Peterson?
Nate, It all depends on the money. I would sign whoever is less expensive of the two. Peterson is a two down back at this point who can not make it through and entire season.
Regards
Sandy
When healthy, Peterson can still be a force. I have always advocated for drafting RBs, as opposed to signing vets. Peterson may be an exception. Murray will never reach that level.
So the Raiders have $48M in cap space, and they will likely gain more by dumping at least 2-3 big salaries.
Free Agency starts in a few days. Should be interesting!
NY, Raiders still have Mack and Carr to upgrade as well. I think Murray can still be an effective running back, especially with Richard and D'Wash. He needs to spend more time watching film because he seems to have trouble identifying the running lanes. I also do not think he is a true North/South runner, and would be more effective like LeSean McCoy type, who cuts back and bounces to the outside well. Not sure if it was Murray or Musgrave's running game style.
With that said, I love Richard. I think he's the best RB on the roster right now. The problem is he is not used to 20-30 carries a game, and that is something that is going to have to built on. The same with Murray though, but he has more experience now. That really takes a toll on a RB, and I think that may be Murray's issue as well.
Bottom line though, Peterson is used to that. Giving him 10-15 carries off with Richard could extend his career by 5 years. This is what the Chiefs did with Marcus Allen, and Peterson is pretty comparable to Marcus Allen. I think if the money is right, we can get Peterson. In the long run, I'd rather keep LTrain, Richard, and D'Wash and let them grow.
Guys I have to disagree. I think Peterson has little left in the tank. He does not compare to MArcus at this point. Marcus was not coming off multiple injured years. Also Marcus could catch and block, Peterson is useless at both.
Let's focus on what the Raiders really need---Defense with a capital D. They suck at DT, MLB and CB has become a question.
The offense is elite with a healthy Carr. if they are going to do damage int he playoffs that is where the money should be spent. DT do not come cheap.
Regards
Sandy
Malcolm Smith spent as much time on the field as any Raiders player over past two years. IMO, the Raiders just upgraded their D by letting him walk.
I'm a little concerned about letting Murray go, because I don't believe either Washington or Richard are solid starters. Murray is the Raiders best option until they find another... and the RB market is thin. Not sure about the draft. Any good RBs in the draft; and should the Raiders use a early round pick on RB? I don't see it.
I think it is a good move to let Murray walk if the Raiders pick up Adrian Peterson. That's a big IF. His top choice is Seattle. I like what Vic Tafur said on Twitter about wooing AP, "Walk him in to the facility with the Raiders O-line and tell him he can have this or Tom Cable's 'project' O-Line in Seattle."
I hope we re-sign Riley for MLB, dude is a beast! I think if we do that, especially with Ball coming back, that will put Ball on the outside to fill the void of MSmith. We need serious help at LB and DT. I don't understand some people being "big" on the Raiders signing Calais Campbell who is a DE.
Speaking of which, it looks like Aldon Smith will not be reinstated after his arrest last night. He was a drunk passenger in a car that hit a police vehicle. It's just sad now. This is how addictions work though, it wont just be gone overnight. His real problem is not surrounding himself with better people to help him be accountable.
Nate, Seriously a washed up Peterson, a guy who has played two games in his career Ball as a starter and Riley a cast off who you speak of as the second coming of Dick Butkus---man I love your positive nature but those three moves do not get me excited.
I would prefer They sign Bennett at TE, resign Murray at no more than 4mm and make a run at Brandon Williams. Now that would be an improvement.
Regards
Sandy
Raiders lost Tarwick and Bates today, at contract prices that probably don't make sense for the Raiders. Nonetheless, these guys were key ST players, on a decent ST unit.
Aldon Smith is probably done. He's either incredibly arrogant or incredibly stupid, or both. By league rules, the Raiders can't help him and, apparently, he can't help himself.
As for Murray, he's listed as the top FA RB after Bell, who's already signed. Raiders probably can't afford to be coy with Murray. He's a decent back and, as Sandy suggests, he is younger and more durable than Peterson (who will want much more money).
So, except for allowing Malcolm Smith to leave, early indications have the Raiders at a net loss so far in the 2017 league year.
There are no signs that significant free agents are on RM's radar, and the Raiders find themselves toward the bottom of the draft order.
...a bit more precarious than anticipated.
Malcolm Smith...Aldon Smith...NO MORE SMITH's !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NY,
Aldon Smith I think he obviously has psychological and or addiction issues. I think he can not help himself, after seeing the video I feel bad for him. Its not about stupidity or arrogance, the man has a disease. The NFL policy of not allowing a player to be in contact with his team during suspension is counter productive. It takes away their support network and isolates them. I hope Smith gets healthy.
As it relates to FA as a fan I want the Raiders to make a splash and sign someone like Bennett or Hightower etc. As a pragmatist with the young core the Raiders have and Carr and Mack needing long term contracts the approach of looking for bargains and building through the draft makes sense.
If the Raiders can improve LB and DT with some reasonably priced FA and have a good draft it is probably enough to give the team a chance at playoff run pending a healthy Carr.
Regards
Sandy
Hayden has signed with the Lions. Still quiet on the Raiders front. I think signing Carr and Mack to contracts is the focus for the Raiders. Not sure there is going to be a "big splash" in FA this year. Reg is bargain shopping, and I wouldn't be surprised if he's looking at Eddie Lacy. Not much noise with him. I know he's headed to Seattle, but I think he's more washed up than AP. I don't see us drafting a RB in the first two rounds, unless Fournette slides, which I doubt. If we draft a RB in the first 2 rounds, I think we target McCaffrey. I'd rather wait a few rounds and target Joe Mixon.
I think, truly, the focus should be DT, LB, and CB. Our offense is stout. Not sold on an aging Bennett, not for his asking price. I know they are trying to keep Menelik Watson out of the Doncos hands too, if we lose him RT becomes an issue. Brandon Williams would be awesome at DT, so would Kawann Short. Lorenzo Alexander would be an upgrade at OLB but not cheap, and if you're bargain shopping, Sean Spence would be an upgrade at MLB.
There's not much on the DB front now that Bouye signed with Jacksonville. I'd go after this position in the draft. I like Adoree Jackson (USC) too. Top notch CB and Special Teamer. Reminds me a lot of CWood coming out of college. He has swagger. Could also hope that Marshonn Lattimore drops our way. Obi Melifonwu (S) in 3rd round would be awesome. Experts have him as a 2nd rounder, but I'm not sure, I think he drops. We will see. It's a rich DB draft which is why I think he drops.
My top 10 realistic targets in the 1st round of the draft:
#1 - Malik McDowell (DT, Michi State), he would be a HUGE pick here, and I think would solidify our D-line with Jihad Ward.
#2 - Adoree Jackson (CB, USC), the other pick here that I think would make a huge impact on our defense and special teams. He could slip into the second round, but if he's there in the first and Malik is gone, I'd take him.
#3 - OJ Howard (TE, Bama), This is really the only offensive guy in the first round I would consider. He's an excellent, tall TE.
#4 - Marshonn Lattimore (CB, Ohio St, if he drops down which I doubt)
I think the rest drop in the second round, but are potential first rounders.
#5 - Caleb Brantley (DT, Florida)
#6 - TJ Watt (ILB/OLB, Wisconsin)-I'd love to pick him up in the 2nd. 6'5", and put him in the middle and make him a modern-day Ted Hendricks.
#7 - Zac Cunningham (ILB, Vandy)
#8 - Jarrad Davis (OLB, Florida)
#9 - Chris Wormley (DT, Mich)-If Watt is gone in the second, and we don't get Malik in the first, I'd go with Wormley.
#10- Christian McCaffery (RB, Stanford)
Watson has signed with the Doncos. RT is now an issue with the Raiders. Bennett signs with GB. The Raiders continue to let opportunities slip. Cordarrelle Patterson is coming in to visit the Raiders. That's the only known visit by a player.
Brandon Williams re-signed with Baltimore. Raiders could steal Sylvester Williams from the Doncos, Dontari Poe is still available too, but at what price is the question. Jake Long would be a good signing for reasonable money to play RT. Sebastian Vollmer (NE, OT) would be a nice signing too.
So far, it's all quiet in Oaktown. We've lost Hayden, Malcolm Smith, Menelik Watson, Stacy McGee, Nate Allen, Darren Bates, and B Trawick. Only FA left to re-sign is Murray. Come on Reg, step yo game up!
Sandy, I agree about Smith. Not having direct contact by, and support of the team makes no sense.
On free agency, looks like the Raiders are heading the wrong direction. After last year's defensive failures, I don't think McKenzie can just take a pass and look for bargains. There are several weaknesses, not the least of which include DT, LB and CB.
Now we need a starter at RT. And if Murray signs someone else, and we don't get a viable replacement, RB will be another void. I don't think having two scat backs is a replacement for a reliable starter who is capable in key short yardage gains.
The only move I completely agree with so far is letting Malcolm Smith walk. The chance to upgrade was worth the risk. But the Raiders are also losing ST and depth players. Still early but there's nothing be excited about.
Guys so far I am not terribly disappointed and willing to see what happens in the next week or so.
Newhouse and Patterson are decent depth and a chance to have a pro bowl return man.
That being said I still say they need to sign starters at DT and MLB. It's hard to see the plan otherwise. Does anyone feel comfortable with Latham, Ellis, Williams, Ward and whatever we draft as the DT rotation? Somehow that is not as scary as Riley, Ball, Heeney and Calhoun at LB.
Its hard to see the plan to fix the D but I am willing to be patient.
Regards,
Sandy
Sandy,
I'm not at all happy right now. Why we haven't made a push for Dontari Poe or Sylvester Williams (who signed with Tennessee) at DT, or Donta Hightower at LB is beyond me.
The good news is Zach Brown (LB, Buffalo) is coming in to visit today, and I hope he doesn't leave without a contract. He's a decent player and has done well. His best year on solo tackles was last year with 97 (he had 149 last year). So I think this would be a quality signing, but we will see. Kevin Minter is available as well, I think he'd be a value pick. Sean Spence would also be a terrific pick up. Sam Acho, and Keenan Robinson would be a good pick up at OLB.
I think Newhouse was a terrific signing, and he will be an upgrade from Watson and Howard. I thought Watson had some up-side athletically, but could not beat the injury bug. I fear that for Mario Edwards Jr too. I don't understand why Reg is bringing in a Tight End, Jared Cook. Tight End isn't really a big need, unless we cut Walford, who I thought did well. Are we speaking with Latavius Murray? Because we should be. It is known that Reg wants to re-sign Riley. So far free agency is a dud. I think it is because they want to sign Mack and Carr to a long-term deal and then see what they can get. Mack and Carr are the centerpieces. JUST WIN, BABY!
Nate,
Carr, Mack and Jackson will all need big contracts and they are way more important than anyone who has left. Let's see what happens in the next couple of weeks before we draw conclusions.
Murray leaving is unfortunate but we know RBs have little value in todays NFL.
Poe I will take a pass on, I would rather them sign Hankins and Zack Brown. Cook seems like a luxury but I disagree with you that Walford was good last year.
Regards
Sandy
Raiders seem content to let all their free agents leave. That's fine, providing they upgrade. But that's not happening either. IMO, Raiders nee to sign at least one top player, e.g., Poe, Hightower, Brown....
It's tough to make net gains losing eight players off your roster. Now the Raiders have to scramble just to replace starters and depth. Adding through the draft is great but, without free agency?
Sandy, Newhouse has been described as solid at times, but a turnstile at other times. He is a backup, at best. Patterson may be a decent signing, but Washington and Richard were solid in returns last year.
Hard to tell if the Raiders actually have their eye on the ball. They have more cap space than they should need, and will probably end up front-loading a contract for Derek Carr just to spend that money... which they are obligated to spend.
Can't help but be disappointed with the Raiders inaction.
If you look at the 2017 free agent market, it's already pretty well picked over. 4 players remain in PFT's top 50... albeit, at least two those could help the Raiders, but I see no reports really connecting the Raiders to any FAs.
The Raiders inactivity is reminiscent of years past when the they were truly rebuilding, and McKenzie would gravitate to second-tier FA players as stopgaps while he filled the roster via the draft.
Couple concerns are (A) we are no longer drafting at the top of the order; (B) we have more holes than the draft can fill, even if RM hits in all rounds; and (C) there needs to be some balance between free agency and the draft.
It's not money, because the Raiders have plenty of cap space.
What message does this send Carr, Mack and other Raiders (and fans) who think the Raiders are really close to something great?
NY
I have found that we tend to agree on 90% of issues but I have to say I think you are being overly pessimistic this year FA activity or lack thereof.
They just signed Cook essentially with only one year guaranteed. Great signing, you need a true pass catching TE. The Raiders did not have one. Sorry Walford so far has proven to be mediocre. The offense is now stacked.
Patterson is the best kick off returner in the NFL and perhaps a speed receiver we are lacking in 3 wide or 4 wide sets. He is also a weapon on end arounds and screens.
Newhouse is decent depth.
They will draft a RB in the mid rounds or sign someone like a Tim Hightower for their power back.
Defense yes there are holes but that will be filled through the draft. If they sign Zach Brown I will be very happy with Reggie.
Also though they have cap room, they need that money for Carr and Mack.
Let's face it the Raiders were 12-4 and with a healthy Carr would have been 13-3. They have a couple of glaring weakness on D that I think will be addressed. But its offense that matters in today's nfl.
Finally I ask you who do you really think they should have signed in terms of high priced FA that would have been worth the risk of putting pressure on the salary cap but the reward of a super bowl. Campbell, Poe, Logan? They did not need o lineman, DeSean Jackson? Would you have given Brandon Williams 30 million plus guaranteed? Do any of these guys put us over the top. Look at the Jags they sign big money guys every year and still suck.
Build through the draft, retain your stars, maintian cap flexiblity this is the successful formula in today's nfl draft.
Regards,
Sandy
Sandy, IMO, there were solid FA opportunities at DT and LB, two areas the Raiders are in dire need. Raiders have plenty of cap space, and they have proven that signing FA O-linemen can be extremely beneficial.
I like Cook and Patterson, but neither position was a desperate need. I agree Walford has underperformed, but that kinda speaks to my point. Drafting - particularly at the bottom of rounds - is too much of a wildcard; and the Raiders, like most teams, miss as much or more than they hit. (On a side note, even with Davis gone, Raiders still reach for unproven, project-type players in high rounds of the draft, be it injured players or players simply without college level experience... Hayden and Ward come to mind.)
Raiders are so close. Why roll the dice when you could fill key needs with proven talent?
I can't look at 12-4 record and just assume they are poised to repeat that. Carr and De Rio pulled a couple of those wins out of the jaws of defeat last year, and the Raiders' schedule is tougher this year.
My fear is drafting and filling holes with second-tier FAs (mostly as stopgaps) doesn't assure the Raiders of improvement. It leaves the potential for setback.
You may see that view as pessimistic but, IMO, it's a real concern for a team that is one year removed from 13 years of misery followed by one year of overachievement.
To that point, when the Raiders lost Carr, the Raiders folded like a cheap suit. When the Pats lost Brady, or the Cowboys lost Romo, those teams barely missed a beat. Perhaps that's one way to measure how far the Raiders are from real success.
Setting aside the average shelf life of an NFL player is less than three years, Seems like most Raiders' draftees are not being re-signed when their rookie contracts are up.
So "retain your stars" has to start with, well, stars. We have Carr and Mack!
Here's the Raiders' 2013 draft (RM's first). It's four years later and very fair to grade this draft... Are any of these guys even on the roster?
1. DJ Hayden, CB, Houston
2. Menelik Watson, T, Florida State
3. Sio Moore, LB, Connecticut
4. Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas
6a. Nick Kasa, TE, Colorado
6b. Latavius Murray, RB, Central Florida
6c. Mychal Rivera, TE, Tennesee
6d. Stacy McGee, DT Oklahoma
7a. Brice Butler, WR, San Diego State
7b. David Bass, DE, Missouri Western State
Granted, 2014 (Carr and Mack draft year) is blockbuster by comparison but, Cooper aside, 2015 and 2016 are also looking pretty thin.
Free agency has brought us Hudson, Osemele, Crabtree, Irvin, Amerson and many others.
NY,
Who were the solid opportunities at LB and DT that would not screw our cap?
Regards
Sandy
Sandy,
Raiders have $48mm in cap space, i.e., before dumping a couple big contracts, which could bring it closer to $55mm. Players that come to mind include Poe, who signed with Atlanta (and it doesn't appear he was ever on the Raiders radar) and Brown, who left Oakland with no deal.
But let's not limit it to DT and LB. Plenty of other areas to address, DE, DB, RT, etc.. I think a strong case could be made that, in recent history, the Raiders have done as good or better in FA than in the draft. Grades are in for the 2013 draft.
Can you make a case for not meeting with and signing highly-ranked free agents? Not enough cap space? Past and/or anticipated future successes in the draft? No glaring needs? Other?
If you let decent roster players walk - 8-10 so far, which is perfectly ok - you need a plan to replace them. No? Just saying we can build thru the draft is flimsy, especially if you study the Raiders draft history.
I like the idea of getting BeastMode out of retirement, but now it looks like the Raiders are guilty of tampering.
IMO, this has not been a productive offseason so far, and I think that's being polite.
Cook and Patterson are nice additions, but neither filled a glaring need.
Cheers!
It's not tampering with Lynch since he is not an active player, but retired. Lynch does not like Sneaky Pete Carroll, which is why he left. Beside, Beast Mode approached Oakland, and has ties to the city since he grew up and still lives there.
I don't like the idea of how passive they've been signing free agents. Poe has been bit by the injury bug the last 2 years, like J Charles. It will be interesting to see how this pans out.
Adoree Jackson is worth drafting than signing a FA DB. I was hoping Zach Brown would have signed. I would have been excited about that. Keenan Robinson would be good too for OLB to replace M Smith.
It reminds me of the 2014 off-season. Lots of money, little FA action, big draft. Reg has a plan, just not what I was expecting.
Colts, rams
Topher
Tampering was mentioned by Florio. I don't think it matters that Lynch is retired. He's still property of the Seahawks, and teams are not allowed to recruit players under contract. Greg Papa apparently announced the possible connection on his show; and, at the very least, put the Seahawks in a position of leverage to obtain compensation, if they release or trade Lynch.
As far as 2017 draft resembling 2014; that's about the same chance as lightning striking twice.
NY,
Poe no way I sign he looks close to washed up and one dimensional at best. Zach Brown lets see what he signs for but anything more than 4mm a year would not have been worth it. Campbell still a good player but way too much money. Minter, no better than Riley. I think Reggie's approach is right, seek defense through the draft and a couple of bargain basement guys like Odrick.
Thanks for your response but it does not seem like you could come up with a lengthy lst of guys that would have been worth breaking the bank for.
Regards
Sandy
Sandy, you really want to put me to task. The lists are out there (e.g., PFTs Top 100). Each team has a number of free agents that the Raiders have access to. Yet their inactivity is bit surprising considering they have 13 free agents themselves and have decided, so far, not to re-sign any of them. We don't know Riley will be back, Nor Condo. Losing one or both could make matters even worse.
So this isn't about one player, or even two that the Raiders have not pursued. It's about a laundry list of key position needs and striking some balance between free agency and draft.
Save 2014, the Raiders have had problems drafting, even when they pick at the top of the order. Now they're at the bottom of the order, and more needs have been exposed since free agency began.
So what's the plan with the draft? Do you recommend drafting best available, or position of need? That can make a big difference with the current roster. Raiders need starters and rotational players. Not much room for error.
NY,
I think before the FA season is over Reggie will sign one or more that will make up for what we lost. You know I am the first to take Reggie to task and he has had his ups and downs. But he has converted me to his ways with Carr, Mack and Cooper. It saved the franchise. I rather him be cautious on FA than have another Flynn or Briesel type issue. Having Carr can keep the Raiders in contention for the next ten years.
In terms of the draft I say they have to draft for need in other words defense. A DT, DB or LB in rounds 1 or 2 will be fine.
Let me "take you to task" on something different. What are your thoughts on Beast Mode running behind Osemele.
Regards,
Sandy
Sandy, let's not lump Flynn into top 100 free agents. That's not a fair comparison, unless you think RM is totally incapable of selecting from a pool of proven talent.
I like the idea of Lynch playing for the Raiders, but I hear rumors that he can be difficult... something the Seahawks managed to keep internal.
I've always advocated drafting RBs. RM did a nice job bringing in two scat backs last year, and the need for a new starter only arose in letting Murray walk. Peterson and Lynch both represent top shelf, so the intrigue is there... but so is the baggage.
If we can afford to use a draft pick on RB, I'm ok with that.
We re-signed our first player that was a free agent, Jon Condo! We also signed EJ Manuel to be back up QB. Raiders also just signed Jelani Jenkins (WLB, Miami) to replace Malcolm Smith.
Not really excited about Lynch or AP, but who else would make an immediate impact? Jamaal Charles? DeAngelo Williams? LeGarrette Blount? Just too much risk in the veteran RBs, which is why I really wished we would have re-signed Murray. Yes, he had trouble finding the holes, and seeing where the block was going to take place, but he was young! Drafting a RB is going to be the same thing. The only thing Lynch, AP, or Charles would bring is a big body and vet leadership for the younger RBs. With that said, if I had to choose between Lynch or AP, I'd choose AP because we wouldn't have to give up anything, just a contract. He may want too much, which maybe why Lynch comes in the picture.
Not much left in the Free Agent market in the 3 areas of need (DT, LB, DB) so I think the Raiders are going to hit these positions in the draft. Realistically, here is what I think will happen on draft day for the Raiders:
#1 - TJ Watt (LB, Wisonsin) I think he will be our ILB, at 6'5" he will be the modern day "Stork".
or Obi Melifonwu (S, UConn). I'm thinking this is Reggie's pick in the first round though. His stock is rising, especially since he is doing more private workouts for teams. As you can see I'm not sure who will be picked at this point. I'd prefer Watt, but my gut tells me Reggie is going to pick Obi.
#2 - Carlos Watkins (DT, Clemeson). He has first round talent, but he is being overlooked for whatever reason. DT is a loaded position this draft, and I think he will be there for us. If not him, then Charles Walker (DT, Oklahoma) another player with first round talent being overlooked.
#3 - Fabian Moureau (CB, UCLA). I think this guy is going to be solid. Another deep position in the draft is CB. Any other draft, this guy is a first rounder. Going to give Carrie a run at Nickel.
#4 - Samaje Perine (RB, Oklahoma). I think he's the best big back in the draft. A lot of people would say D'Onta Foreman (RB, Texas), but Oklahoma backs seem to fair better in the NFL.
#5 - Julie'n Davenport (OT, Bucknell). He will be our future starting LOT. He will learn a lot under Penn. Get him now, get him cheap.
#6 - Rasul Douglas (CB, West Virginia). I think he is going to be a steal. Not sure if he drops this far, but CB is a loaded position in this draft. It wouldn't surprise me if he is overlooked, and it wouldn't surprise me if he is picked earlier.
#7 - Anthony Walker (OLB, Northwestern). Not much to say here. Low round pick on OLB will give some depth and maybe surprise us.
It appears the Raiders continue to bargain shop, signing OLB Lynch from Miami, who is coming off three significant injuries over the past two years.
The Raiders bargain shopping approach, IMO, creates uncertainty whether or not they can actually upgrade their roster. It's a crapshoot approach.
If bringing guys in off the street to tryout is the means by which Raiders replace their free agents, then I hope they re-sign Perry Riley. MLB is too important to wing it.
I think you meant Jelani Jenkins NY. He was decent before his injury last season, and was looking good when he went down. His best year was 2014, and the dude is 25. Not an exciting sign, but not a terrible signing. Sam Acho and Perry Riley are still available too.
CSN is reporting that the Raiders are still in the running for Zach Brown, he left because he switched agents. He didn't like the agent he was with, and how he was representing him. That could be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on if Brown felt he was under-selling him, or over-selling him. Brown is the best linebacker on the market right now. Again, my concern is that Brown is a contract year player.
CBs in the draft are going down with injuries here of late. With Sydney Jackson going down with an achilles injury (and surgery) does his draft stock drop, and if so, could the Raiders pick him up in later rounds? Reggie loves guys coming off injuries. Fabian Moureau went down with an injury yesterday at his pro day. I had him going in the 3rd to the Raiders. If this is a serious injury, I'd be looking for Ahkello Witherspoon (CB, Colorado, 6'3", 198 lbs) name to be picked in his place. He's a big CB that would be awesome to watch in the nickel.
Another interesting player to watch in the later rounds is a DT compared to Brandon Williams, and that is Stevie Tu'ikolovatu (USC, 6'1", 331 lbs). He could be picked up at #5 because I think Davenport may fall.
I like this draft though. I think there are a lot of potential starters here for the Raiders. I just hope we go smart and get immediate starters with our first and second picks. I'd prefer Watt and McDowell in those rounds. If McDowell goes in the first, then Adoree Jackson should be in the second. But we have to go with TJ Watt if he's there.
I hear a lot of rumblings that Reggie really like Menlifonwu in the first round though. That scares me. I think he's a good player, but he overplays too much, and usually gets caught out of position. He overplays his size too. I think he's a decent 2nd round pick (if he's there) but we shouldn't break the bank on him in the first, especially if TJ Watt is sitting there. We will see what happens though.
Holding my breath for the Owners' meetings next week. Looks like the Raiders are moving to Vegas, but a lot of the same noise is being trumpeted that said the Raiders and Chargers would be going to LA.
Yes, Jenkins. Thanks. I agree, Reggie gravitates toward injured players. But that hasn't served the Raiders well. DJ Hayden had numerous setbacks. And it was revealed after the Raiders drafted Edwards Jr. that he had a chronic injury (health) problem. I think I remember Watson having some history of injury, but he also lacked experience.
These guys were championed as Raiders' top draft picks. That doesn't account for all the free agents with injuries... which is a better risk based on price and the fact you're not sacrificing a high-round draft pick.
Still, shaping a roster around bargain shopping players, particularly ones coming off injuries, is not ideal, by any stretch. Raiders have plenty of cap space.
News today: with the Jags signing Rivera, the Raiders, officially, have no players left from Reggie McKenzie's first two drafts; 2012 and 2013.
That's pretty alarming for any team whose mantra is to "build thru the draft."
No way to spin that.
My last memory of the 2016/17 season was watching the Raiders defense make horrible Brock Osweiler look like Joe Montana.
So far this off season, the defense has been an after thought. No one really added. No improvements really made.
Yeah, Raiders will draft some players for defense, but rookies run hot & cold their first seasons.
It looks to me like Raiders are planning to win games 38-35 this year. Try to keep Carr healthy. It's the only hope. Raiders D, not looking good as of now.
I agree NY and Raider 00. Losing players you drafted from 2012/13 is not a good sign if your mantra is "build through the draft." We only have one player on our roster from the 2013, 12, and 11 drafts; and that is Tawain Jones. Whatever happened to Miles Burris?
I don't know why Reggie let Rivera go (let alone Murray), and I don't know why Del Rio and his staff put Rivera in the dog house. He was a decent TE, maybe his work ethic wasn't where it should be, maybe he was relying on his talent? I don't know, but something wasn't right with the coaches on him.
Last season was the best Free Agency period for the Raiders under Reggie. He found a good mix of young vets, and filling the holes. Then he topped it off with a solid draft. Out of which, we found 3 solid players for us last season: Joseph, #5 DWash, and #7 Vadal Alexander (who may be in the mix for RT). Not too mention undrafted FA like Richard. We may see more with Jihad Ward and Shilique Calhoun.
We have to hope for a good draft this year as well. The majority of our players drafted may have to start, which is why I think LB and DT should be 1 & 2. Gonna be interesting to see what Reggie does.
City of Oakland making a final pitch to keep Raiders. Sounds like they've upped their game a little, with real intent. Staying in Oakland still the best option, provided a new stadium is built.
Sad Day for the Raiders. I think moving to Vegas sucks. It seems financially the deal is a ticking time bomb, I don't see 65k rabid screaming raider fans at the stadium giving them a home field advantage.
Only the NFL can let three teams move and screw it up this royally. Thanks NFL for keeping the one true LA team out of LA and deserting two cities that really loved their teams
Regards
Sandy
I agree Sandy, it is a sad day.
Another problem though has been Oakland/Alameda. They refused 3 viable plans the Raiders brought (along with the Warriors) since 2009 for stadiums for all 3. One included the Raiders moving across the highway.
Mayor Schaaf said yesterday that the Raiders requested the city/county to dump the A's, which is not true. They asked that the A's be located to another site while they tore down the Coliseum and built a new stadium for the Raiders and a separate stadium for the A's on the grounds. The A's refused to find a different place while this happened. Oakland/Alameda backed the A's, and thus lost both the Warriors and the Raiders. Their plan with the Lott/Fortress group wouldn't have been implemented until 2024, which is the part that Commissioner Goodell said wasn't "viable". I don't think the stadium idea was a bad idea, the timeline was. The NFL was right on this too, the Coliseum is a horrible, run down place, and something needed to happen sooner.
The blame is at both parties. With the Warriors leaving, why couldn't the Raiders build a stadium where the arena is? It doesn't make sense. If they wanted a stadium so bad in Oakland, why did it have to be the site where the Coliseum is located? Why not take the area around the arena? What blew this deal for the Raiders? Mark Davis said it yesterday in his press conference with the NFL. He knew he was done with Oakland when after signing a lease agreement with a 2 year option, the city/county came back and said, "This isn't valid because we are raising the lease agreement" (Mark's quote). That says a lot. Maybe he was willing to continue talks with city/county until they did that. He has been silent and cold to any of their suggestions since. Who can blame him for that, right? I would be bent if that were me too.
At the same time, Mayor Schaaf said yesterday they were exploring all legal ramifications. Which means there may be legal ramifications of Mt. Davis. Can the city/county sue the Raiders to pay off the $95 million still owed? Was that part of the original agreement that if the Raiders left before this was paid off, they would owe this money to the city/county? That may be a deal breaker for the Vegas move.
I hate the move to Vegas because of the environment that surrounds Vegas. It is a city that openly promotes trouble, and is a place where players could find themselves in a lot of trouble. As well, we have players that are leaders on this team with a high sense of integrity: Derek Carr, Khalil Mack, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Rodney Hudson, and David Amerson to name a few. When it comes time to sign them long-term, will they stick around, or will they opt out because of the environment around Vegas? I truly think we will lose some of these guys because of this. Yes, there is no state tax in Nevada, and that will attract players; but what kind of players? Players like Pacman Jones?
The bottom line to me is that there was so much left on the table in Oakland that both parties could have come to an agreement, and now we will never know what Oakland could have had.
This Las Vegas deal seems a little fishy to me. First, there is no land yet to build a stadium. Also, in what world can a state of the art stadium be built for 1.7 billion ? All new recent stadiums built have cost 3 billion and up.
And even if it did happen. You know when Raiders have down turn, Vegas fans will not show up to games like Oak fans do.
Finally the idea of Raiders playing under a dome must have Al spinning. Raiders don't belong under a dome like a display in a museum.
Just my opinion. I don't like it.
It's a real shame. Raiders belong in Oakland! Even with all the public money in Vegas, it seemed like the last ditch effort by Oakland was viable but Davis never flinched. So now Davis owes the other NFL owners $11M each for his relocation. That's well over $300M, which is a big hole in his pocket to start this process. Plus, the Raiders will have to relocate their corporate offices, training facilities, etc., whereas, if they stay in Oakland, none of these elements even factor into the equation.
Guys
The reason the Raiders went to Vegas is simple----$$$$$$. Mark just increased the value of the franchise $900 million. There was no way on earth Oakland was going to give him that kind of hand out.
It was all about money. Mark does not have the wealth of the other owners so there was no way to build a stadium in Oakland without him taking on an equity partner given the lack of public funding.
I am sad for Raider fans but happy for the city of Oakland. Giving out this kind of money to owners when it could be used for schools, police, infrastructure, health care and helping those less fortunate is insane.
I think Vegas will not be a real home field advantage for the Raiders and it hurts the mystique of the team. 00 you are correct a dome sucks.
Most of the blame lies with the greed of the NFL, they should have at a minimum let Mark go to LA.
Regards
Sandy
Sandy...we may not live to see it, but I believe Raiders will eventually end up back in L.A. market.
Raiders will tire of fair weather fan base, and "state of art stadium" will age as time goes by.
Chargers will flop in L.A. Writing is already on the wall for that to happen. Even Rams might fizzle out again if they can't keep fans interested with some winning seasons.
Of course, this will all take 20/25 years to play out. But the time will come. We just may not be around to see it.
The greatness of the L.A. Raiders is in it's future!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sandy, good point about value. From a business perspective, Davis's decision is a no-brainer. Raiders value will go thru the roof based on combination of real improvements on the field and, well, the field itself.
I believe Vegas is sustainable. There are lots of fans all over the country who have far better access to Vegas than they do the Bay Area. I've been to games all over the NE and there's never a shortage of Raiders fans at road games.
00, I like your long term optimistic approach. I prefer them to stay in Oakland but LA is a way way better option than Vegas. At least there is a large core base of support there.
NY, how many hard core Raider fans do you see travelling to Vegas every week? 10,000 would be extremely generous number. I believe less than 3k come up from LA every week and let's face going to Vegas for a game is a few thousand dollar proposition when you add in flights and hotel.
That leaves a little less than 60k plus seats to fill. I don't think there exists a hard core season ticket base in vegas anywhere near that so the rest is tourists.
What does all this add up to. A more corporate/tourist type crowd. The chance to sit besides some goof in town to cheer for the opponent. NY can we agree the Black Hole is dead and home field advantage will be less?
Regards
Sandy
Sandy, Vegas has 43 million visitors a year. So they might not need hard core Raiders fans to fill the stadium. I know guys in NY who will buy season tickets, where that was never an option before. Plus, they'll have fans of visiting teams traveling... which, unfortunately, will erode home field advantage.
I believe the Raiders belong in Oakland, and not Vegas, or even LA. But if they move to Vegas, I will be there.
Sandy...Maybe Raiders will have a black & red hole, like a roulette wheel.
It will be a challenge to build a consistent, hard core fan base in Vegas. In Oakland, the fans were there during the down times. In Vegas I fear the fans will only show for the good times.
But what about the NHL ? Who is going to a hockey game on a Tuesday night in Vegas ? I don't know. Guess they have it all figured out.
Not sure I fully accepted the decision to move is final until last night, watching Derek Carr speak at the CMAs in, you guessed it, Las Vegas. ...the start of the Raiders welcome to Vegas tour.
Anyone think Reggie can pull off trading for Marshawn Lynch AND Richard Sherman from C-hawks??
Reggie luvs his draft picks. Would have to give a lot to get both. Might be worth it though. I say go for it !!!!!!!!!
Lynch, yes.
Sherman, no. It goes against all principles RM holds. He'd have to compensate Seattle w/high draft pick, take on Sherman's contract, and absorb a cap hit by releasing Smith (or pay Smith and Sherman).
NyRaider...But Sherman gives Raiders a true shut down corner, and adds to a defense that has had zero added to it so far this off season.
Raiders are in win now mode. Richard Sherman is far better than any player Raiders will take with 24th pick this draft.
I'm not talking Hershal Walker, rip off type trade. But if deal is reasonable, I think Reggie should do it.
00 - not my choice about Sherman. My opinion. And I'm not sure I agree the Raiders are in win-now mode. Seems Reggie is still plugging along with his build-thru-the-draft philosophy. Raiders have a net loss in free agency this year; and unless something breaks... like a trade for Lynch or Sherman... we might look worse on paper. My guess is McKenzie will look for more bargain signings to fill holes.
My choice is to bring Lynch and Sherman to the Raiders, and focus on D in the draft.
Tough schedule, but a record five primetime games. There were seasons during the worst of times when the Raiders had zero primetime games. Apparently, Mack and Carr are must-see TV.
I'm excited about the possibility to go to the Raiders-Cowboys preseason game because it will be my son's first live Raider game.
They have what is ruled the 4th toughest schedule, but who cares, JUST WIN, BABY! Can't beat the best if you don't play the best. I'd like to see a punch to the Patriots' face this year, and I'd like to see us take it to the Chiefs and Broncos.
My concern with Lynch is that he hasn't played in a year, and may cost us too much than what we are willing to give. Also, he'd be joining a new system that he is unfamiliar with. The positive, he would give tremendous insight to the game to Richard and Washington.
The more interesting thing is Joe Mixon. Reggie talks about his meeting with him on CSN Bay Area and it seems that the Raiders are seriously considering him. Not sure what Mark Davis or Freddie B feels about him, and that will be the sway. Might be a mid-late round pick.
I'm disappointed the Raiders let Dan Williams go, and have not made any attempt to get a MLB or DT in Free Agency. I hope these positions are the targets of the first 2 rounds. In the first, Haason Reddick to play MLB, and in the second a DT like Dalvin Tomlinson (Bama) or Stevie Tu'ikolovatu (USC) or Jaleel Johnson (Iowa) in 3rd round. I also wouldn't mind Malik McDowell (DT, Michi State) in the first.
Bottom line, time to get heavy on the D-line, and solidify the linebackers.
Welcome to the Raiders Marshawn Lynch!
Assuming it becomes official, that's good news. Now the Raiders can concentrate on drafting a defense... which they pretty much need top to bottom. Save Mack, Irving and Amerson, no position should be safe from upgrade.
Draft starts tonight. It doesn't carry the excitement of past drafts... because of draft order... but it's equally or more important than ever. The Raiders need real help on defense.
Now that Lynch is part of the family, RM can focus on D.
Go Raiders!
Some how the Raiders always end up in controversy early in the draft. It's McKenzie's MO at this point. I thought for sure he would take Foster, despite an injury that had him drop almost entirely out of the first round. Conley is a good pick if the Raiders are 100% sure he's not going to be charged (or sued in civil court). If their not 100% sure, this is a substantial risk, and could be a huge flop.
Hope for the former, because the Raiders could sure use a decent CB.
PS, Chiefs traded up to take a QB project. IMO, that benefits the Raiders... at least short-term.
I thought that was a good move on Reid's part. Mahomes is a solid QB, very similar to Alex Smith. Reggie has put me back on edge with his pick. I wonder what he is thinking, seriously. Conley will be a good CB if he's not arrested and jailed for rape. Big risk at this point. We could've gone so many different ways with that pick. I'm fine with Conley, again, if he's not arrested.
I think DT or ILB will be our pick in the 2nd. More than likely Malik McDowell will be our pick in Round 2 unless Raekwon McMillan (ILB, Ohio St) is there which I doubt. I'd like to see Anthony Walker (ILB, Northwestern) in Round 3, or even Hardy Nickerson Jr in Round 3 or 4. We need to solidify our MILB and our OLB positions. There is still a lot of good talent to get extensive help on the defensive line and linebacker position. We also need an OT for Penn's backup, which could be addressed in the 3rd or 4th Round (Julie'n Davenport, Zach Banner, Roderick Johnson). It's going to be interesting, so buckle up.
2nd pick is S, UConn, Obi Melifonwu! Great pick here. Now to get MLB, OLB, DT, and OT
Not that I care, but I'd be a little annoyed as Chiefs fan that they spent so much in RD 1 to draft for the future when the future is now for them. They are on the cusp, and should be filling immediate needs, IMO.
Raiders clearly drafting based on need. CB, S and DT. RM said they did miles of homework on Conley... let's hope so.
I guess LBs don't matter anymore unless they can rush the passer.
Is the plan to resign Riley he plays on first and second and Obi is the nickle backer? You guys know I watch a ton of SEC, Sharpe is a G or maybe RT, Carr will die if they put him at LT anytime soon.
Regards
Sandy
The whole draft seemed underwhelming. Sharp is said to have issues with his right eye and would be limited to the left side.
Raiders should be on the phone with Riley right now. Please tell me they don't intend to try Heeney again without a backup plan.
Looks like the plan is, hoping Heeney, and Mario Edwards can stay healthy, and Conley will not be charged.
Plan B ? Score a lot of points!!
Ok, then. Plan B it is.
Conley's nothing happened claim has now become something happened. This could go bad for the Raiders, who may have wasted another first pick.
Undrafted Free Agents to keep an eye on this coming camp that I think will make an impact:
Ole Miss DE-Fadol Brown
Oregon TE-Pharoah Brown
Oklahoma DT-Jordan Wade
SMU OT-Chauncey Briggs
Arkansas State LB-Xavier Woodson-Luster
I would also keep an eye on Duke CB Breon Borders, Texas DT Paul Boyette, and USC OG Jordan Simmons.
If even one sticks to the roster it's a win. Richard was last year's best.
Pro Bowl LB Darryl Washington is now a free agent.
Nate
I think Washington is worth a look. He has been out of football for 3 years but when last he played he was awesome. Serious speed.
Regards
Sandy
I'm excited and scared about this team coming into this next season. The offense is going to be stout! Marshawn Lynch, the Raiders are Beast Mode! Looks like I'll be eating Skittles this season, and a bunch of 'em. I am really intrigued with drafting OT Sharpe in the 4th. I think he will be groomed to replace Donald Penn at LT, and from all indication he has the nastiness to do it too. This is the pick that I think will either be terrific, or a horrific flop. We shall see.
The defense, however, is concerning. Yes we drafted some excellent players with the first 3 picks. I'm concerned about what will happen with Conley, and if he will even be on the playing field. I do, however, love Obi Melifonwu pick up. I really didn't think he would have dropped that far, but he did. He's very athletic, smart, and has football acumen. Then with the third pick, they selected Vanderdoes (DT) from UCLA, who is coming off an injury (I really think this is Reggie's calling card. You were injured? Sure we will draft you!), and didn't look so good last season. He looked slow and overweight. But as a freshman and sophomore, he looked vicious. I'm hoping he makes an impact on the defensive line.
But we didn't really address the glaring needs (as of yet). We have yet to pick up a true NT that will give some push, nor did we address the much needed MLB. We have a lot of Rookies on the Roster right now at LB, and I am not sold on Marquel Lee being the "answer" for the middle.
At the same time, we don't know about the overall health of Mario Edwards Jr, Neiron Ball (who doesn't have a # on the roster, which is suspicious), and are not sure if we will be re-signing Perry Riley or not.
In the free agent market for DT, there is not much, unless you want to rent 35 year old Vince Wilfork. No thanks. Will Sutton of the Bears would be a decent NT for the Raiders. He hasn't had much of a career (25 years old), and he is not built for a 3-4 defense. He played in a 4-3 system in college too. I'd kick his tires if they stick with a 4-3 system. They are also putting a lot of hope into Justin Ellis, and it seems the Raiders are moving more toward a 3-4 system too.
As far as ILB, Gerald Hodges (from across the bay) is 26 and is an above average run stopper and not a bad cover man. I also mentioned Darryl Washington, and the intrigue would be a possible return of Sio Moore (whom I think we should have never let walk).
I think if we are going to improve and win in the post-season, we need to address these positions and our defense needs to improve. Can't wait for the Regular Season though.
IMO, if Conley doesn't play due to legal issues, McKenzie will have failed miserably with the Raiders most important draft pick. That's speculation, so I want to assume the Raiders know Conley is safe from indictment.
My further opinion is that the Raiders should re-sign Riley. Riley was the closest thing the Raiders had to a MLB last year, and they've done little to nothing to replace him. Time to re-sign!
The good news is the Raiders actually look better on offense, but defense could still be a significant weakness. Lots of wide cards to rely on.
Megatron, Calvin Johnson, is the special guest "coach" with the Raiders today at OTAs. Could it be another player coming out of retirement to play with the Silver and Black? There is a lot of speculation happening....
10 years have past since the Raiders drafted JaMarcus Russell instead of Calvin Johnson.
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First game of the pre-season. It has been an exciting off-season. I'm a little concerned that we haven't heard from RT with new posts, etc. RT, I hope you are well my friend. JUST WIN, BABY
Hey, Nate.
Last night's game was, eh! My biggest concern is that the Raiders have no LBs... certainly no depth.
Sean Smith is still a liability. That didn't change.
Raiders O-line depth looks weak, also. They got pushed around at times.
Please tell me we don't have to listen to media talk about Lynch sitting for the NA. He's a great player, but let's not make the season all about him... unless, of course, it's his work on the field.
Announcers made an excellent point: Raiders were 26th D last season, despite having the defensive player of the year. No easy task. That falls on the big guys, McKenzie, Del Rio and Norton. Leading me back to point A... still no LBs.
I'm not worried about the offense! Lots of weapons!
Cheers!
NY, the depth at these positions are something to worry about, but they are young players too. No first string players really played in the first game (unless you count Sean Smith as first team, which apparently he is not).
I think the D-Line is going to get pressure on the QB more consistently, but our LBs and DBs have to cover. TJ Carrie looks to be back on the first team, but how long will it take for him to reach out and start grabbing WRs for no reason? The only upgrade in these 2 areas on defense is Obi and Joseph. No one has seen Conley yet, or how effective he will be. That's concerning.
Another concern is Donald Penn. I think he is just sitting Training Camp out, and expect to see him at the facilities before Preseason game #3. But if he doesn't show, I'm concerned about the effectiveness of our offense. Donald Penn is the captain of the O-Line. The last time we lost our captain of the O-Line it was disastrous for 14 years. Raiders have to pay him if that is why he's holding out. If it was Carr or Mack holding out, they'd been paid by now.
LT is not a position to play around with. We don't have a comparable replacement for Penn at this time...
Wish I could have more faith in the D. Doesn't look like we made enough strides to improve at LB. Other positions perhaps a bit more hopeful, but it will depend on youth... risky!
As of today, the Raiders don't look ready on defense. Carrie was victimized last night. Sean Smith played ok, but sounds like he's facing jail time.
Overall, the LBs and secondary are so weak that the depth chart could turn upside down before the season starts, as the backups are outperforming starters. More likely, the Raiders will be active on the waiver wire. But even that's made more difficult by the new rule to delay roster cuts.
Sean Smith can't tackle worth beans. TJ Carrie realized he was TJ Carrie and needs to hold on to the WR to be effective. I am wondering if Obi would be a good start at CB? Don't know how long Conley is out, he tweeted that he doesn't have shin splints. Are they waiting league discipline, or his case to resolve? The grand jury did not pursue charges against him.
D-Line looked weak again, with absolutely no push (except of course Mack), unless you count getting pushed. The D played a 4-2 spread on the goal line for an easy TD run for the Lambs. It was horrendous. I have lost all confidence in Norton as DC, and I think Del Rio has too. I will place money that Pagano will be DC before the end of the season.
I'm not saying that the sky is falling because it is only preseason, but the Defense has to play 100 times better than what they did. They actually looked worse than last season. Also, a MLB would be nice too.
Ugh! We need to plug too many holes on D, and our reliance on youth is too heavy, and risky! IMO, that falls on McKenzie. Hopefully, Norton continues to learn on the fly, because he made plenty of mistakes last year.
Yet, with Carr and Mack as captains, Raiders have a chemistry they have not had in a very long time, maybe ever, because big AL didn't believe in it. These guys are ready and willing (even if not able) to fight for each other.
How bad is EJ Manual? Wow! He couldn't hit the broad side of a barn the other night. Cook is still not ready, but he was way better that Manual on Sat. Once again, the Raiders have nobody behind Carr!
On D, I think they should bring Riley back, just to save face at MLB.
Sandy, are you in this year? Looks like we are ghosting it, Nate. Let's keep the lights on as long as we can.
Go 2017 Raiders!
NY,
Love you bro, you too Nate. I decided to check the site for the first time in months and my timing was fortuitous as NY gave me that nice shout out.
Looking at your last few posts, I hear ya the offense is stacked and will be great.
The D it's hard not to worry. My only hope is that the d-line will be improved with Edwards healthy and Joseph with a year under his belt. Vanderoos looks to have potential also. But lb my god what the hell is Reggie thinking and Norton don't get me started-lol? I know you guys will laugh at me but I still hold out hope for Aldon coming back to give some juice to the pass rush.
Hope you guys had a good summer
Sandy
Sandy,
It has been a rough year for me so far; but I am holding my head high, and weathering the storm. My bright spot is my faith in the Lord; but I look forward to the Raiders and football as well as it brings some normalcy.
Hope you are well too.
Nate,
Chin up brother sorry to hear you are going through a rough patch, a big hug for you.
Based on your posts you seem like an extremely positive person, I am sure you can utilize that in your own life to help.
I am about to watch the Raiders - cowboys, interested to see the Raider d line go against Dallas o-line
Have a good weekend
Sandy
Cowboys first team offense had no problem moving the ball. Then the backup QB, Rush, went 12 for 13 and a TD before leaving the game.
Lee is over his head in the middle. Raiders would have been smart to keep Riley. Run D and covering TEs still major concerns. How is that possible after so many years of the same thing?
Looks like the Raiders are waiting for 2 rookie players, neither of whom have played a snap, to improve their D.
Hope Reggie is poised to pounce on the waiver wire.
Sandy,
Thanks for the encouragement. The short of it is I lost my dad this last April, he was a great friend and mentor to me. We had his services on my birthday. It has been pretty surreal, and I have felt lost for the last several months. I can't even imagine how my mom feels, after 46 years of marriage. With football starting, and coaching my son's football team once again, it feels like things are coming back to some type of normalcy that I have longed for all summer.
NY, TJ Carrie is not the answer on the outside, but neither is Sean Smith. Carrie reminds me a lot of Stanford Routt; can make great plays on short routes, but has to hang on to the WR on the long. Sean Smith gets burned on any route and looks to be afraid of tackling. Where is Nnamdi when you need him? I hope Amerson is ok, it looks like he may be in concussion protocol. As far as available CBs, Brice McCain is still available, which surprises me. He's fairly decent. Darryl Morris (Colts) is another guy who was starting to rise up the ranks on the Colts, much like Amerson. He's 26. The problem is Sean Smith, and how much of his contract are the Raiders going to have to eat if they cut him. I think Antonio Hamilton is doing a good job for us in the secondary (3rd string, behind Carrie and Smith) this preseason. I'd like to see him out on the field more with the first team just to see what kind of noise he can make. He does everything the team asks him to do in practice, and works hard. At this point, his name doesn't get mentioned a ton, and that is not a bad thing. He did get the sack on Cooper last night that caused the fumble.
I'm scratching my head as to why Riley is not here too, he would be the best available MLB. There are two others I like D'Qwell Jackson and Sio Moore (would love to have him back). I was hoping they would have signed Kiko Alonso in the offseason, but he was franchised by the Dolphins. What ever happened to Neiron Ball? He's not even on the roster!
With the secondary and linebacker weakness, I am impressed with Treyvon Hester and Latham; more so than Jelly Ellis. They both are getting good push up the middle and that is going to create havoc for opposing O-Lines, especially if they're on the field with Mack, Edwards Jr, and Irvin. Raiders defense is going to have to step it up if the Raiders want to get far. At this point, I'm not sure Norton makes it through the season as DC. Pagano may be our new DC by season's end.
Josh Mauga has been cut by the Chiefs to make room for Reggie Ragland. He is coming off a shoulder injury, but he's a stud MLB.
Nate,
My condolences. Take some solace in the fact that your kids got to know their grandfather. Keep your Mom busy I am sure it is tough for her to be on her own after so many years.
How are you doing with the storm, if I remember correctly you are in Austin so I assume you just got a lot of rain. As someone who lives in Florida I can empathize with those people in Houston.
Yeah D looks awful. The secondary is hit or miss but certainly does not function like a cohesive unit. What say you NY will Conley make a difference this year?
The Raiders have a Super Champion level offense but the D is going to make every game a shoot out. I know LBs are somewhat less important in today's NFL but Reggie is really scraping the bottom. The Irvin signing was great but otherwise its a bunch of cast offs.
Regards
Sandy
Thanks Sandy,
Yes, a lot of rain and 40-50 mph winds, but not near as bad as Htown. No flooding on our end. Maybe a little south-southeast of us. It wasn't nearly as bad in Austin as they were predicting, and that's only because it became a tropical storm in 6-8 hours after hitting land. They were predicting it to just now becoming a Category 1 yesterday (Monday) before it hit land. If that were to happen, Austin would probably be more like Houston, and Houston more like Rockport (utterly destroyed).
Browns are looking to trade Joe Haden. I wonder if they would take a straight trade with Haden and Sean Smith & TJ Carrie? News is that Raiders are hoping Conley practices this week. No word yet on if he has/hasn't, but I'm watching for it. In any case, Haden would be an upgrade at CB, and Raiders can ease Conley in at slot CB.
I think we should sign Josh Mauga too. I know he is coming off shoulder surgery last year (and didn't play), but he seemed fine so far this offseason. Definite upgrade we need at MLB too. Plus he'd be "invaluable" with game-planning against the Chiefs. JUST WIN, BABY!
You are right Nate, Perry Riley signing would be a no brainer. See a list below of best FA LBs. Smith for Haden, let me know when you wake up from that beautiful dream-lol
Regards
Sandy
Perry Riley, ILB, Raiders. Age: 29.
Ahmad Brooks, ILB, 49ers. Age: 33
Bruce Carter, ILB, Jets. Age: 29.
Sio Moore, ILB, Cardinals. Age: 27.
Erin Henderson, ILB, Jets. Age: 31.
Akeem Dent, ILB, Texans. Age: 29.
Daryl Washington, ILB, Cardinals. Age: 30.
DeMeco Ryans, ILB, Eagles. Age: 33.
Josh Mauga, ILB, Chiefs. Age: 30.
Sam Barrington, ILB, Saints. Age: 26.
Jason Trusnik, ILB, Saints. Age: 33.
Jamari Lattimore, ILB, Bills. Age: 28.
Curtis Lofton, ILB, Raiders. Age: 31.
Daryl Smith, ILB, Ravens. Age: 35.
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Bills. Age: 29.
Agreed. I thought signing Riley was a no-brainer before he became a free agent.
Kind of like, it's only a problem if you have a solution.
Raiders still don't have a solution.
Joe Haden is a Steeler now.
I can't believe the Raiders cut LaTroy Lewis. Unbelievable! Dude had a stellar preseason and was a ball hawk. I thought he'd at least make the roster as a special teamer. Makes me sick.
Sean Spence (Colts), Sio Moore, and Josh Mauga are only ILB worth signing. All 3 were cut by their teams. Spence and Moore are 27.
TJ Ward was cut by the Doncos, wouldn't mind having him, he's really the only DB worth looking at. Scooby Wright was cut by the Cardinals. MLB Ben Boulware (rookie) was cut by Carolina and might be worth taking a look at.
Maybe they are trying to get Lewis on the practice squad, I dont feel he would have made anymore of a difference than the other crap at lb. At least they cut Calhoun as well. Right now two of James, Lee, Adams or Morrow will be starting on Sunday. Yikes
The FA agents you mention do not excite. At this point I would be willing to take a flier on Daryl Washington. Trade for Navaro Bowman? I guess Reggie former lb aside just does not value the position.
Offense is better than last year it is elite. They better score 30 a game with who the raiders are trotting out at lb and the back four.
Have a good holiday weekend
Sandy
Raiders are ultra-thin at LB. Hard to believe McKenzie allowed that to happen. Equally hard to believe; Sio Moore would be an upgrade right now.
Perhaps a consolation; Raiders have depth at safety... which may come in handy since they don't have LBs that can cover.
This season is ALL about offense. Del Rio likes to defer on opening kickoffs, which I tend to agree; but he might want to rethink that and keep the defense off the field.
Mack can't carry this defense by himself. Others have to step up!
NY,
How is this for a solution. Pray Aldon gets reinstated because the only backup edge rusher to Irvin and Mack is Cowser. Sorry Irvin and Mack might be fantastic but we need better depth at edge than Cowser. Then resign Riley in the middle for 1 and 2 down with Obi playing nickle lb as you suggested.
Regards
Sandy
That's a step in the right direction, Sandy. Cowser has had a few decent moments pass rushing, but he can't keep the edge with speedy backs, or even QBs. The reason he has risen on the depth chart is, as you say, lack of depth.
Is Smith training somewhere? If he's reinstated today, it could take him a month to get into football shape. Right? It's ridiculous the league office provides no direction on this matter. They'll get around to it (or not) whenever they feel like it. Although, Smith hasn't exactly helped himself.
Raiders don't seem prepared to start the season. They went 0-4 in preseason and demonstrated weakness at LB, and pretty much across their defense. And as powerful as the offense can be, only Derek Carr can run it. There's still no depth behind Carr. EJ Manual is simply bad, and Cook is still behind him. For what it's worth (not much), McGloin got released. Nobody wants the Raiders backup QBs.
They can beat the Titans, but it will take an intensity they have not displayed.
Preseason is just that, preseason. They put players on an island and get a lot of one-on-one matchups to see how they respond. That is how they evaluate in games, plus what they see in practice/simulations.
Preseason is not the time to be running schemes and tipping your hand, like we used to do before JDR came aboard. Sure, you want to see them compete, and all those games we were pretty close to being "w"s. I think we will be fine.
I do agree that there is no depth behind Carr, but Manual and McGloin have to hit the film room and put themselves in a position to get familiar with the playbook and team. Still no pursuit of MLB, because I think staff wants to see how Lee fairs. Phillip Wheeler and Perry Riley are out there.
A take away from the Chiefs-Pats game. The Chiefs gave a solid gameplan on how to beat the Patriots. Play tight coverage against WRs, have a solid run game that will open the pass. The Pats showed that a strong running game can beat the Chiefs defense. The Pats lost because they deviated away from the running game and went pass heavy, and Tom Brady wasn't off target, his WRs couldn't catch, and they covered Gronk well.
The Raiders should have some good notes on how to beat both teams after watching that game.
On an ending note, I'm concerned about Take. I've emailed him a few times, and have called him out here. Take, hope you are well.
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