Broncos Gameday Thread
Well, here we are at the end of another season, trying to scale Mount .500. Again. A season that began with so much promise has ended with precipitous tailspin that really makes you wonder. For years, the Raiders have spun the mantra of "Return to Glory." Alas, this year brought us just another Return to Form. Let's see them beat the Broncos, reach .500 and try again next year. GO RAIDERS!
posted by Raider Take at 1:39 PM
241 Comments:
Not much the Raiders defense can do against the Broncos Juggernaut offense.
Looks like the Raiders only chance is to win another shootout.
Raiders are playing sloppy but somehow still outplaying the Broncos in the Toilet Bowl.
Raiders defense holds true to form, gives up over 30 points. But the offense was equally as bad, as it turned over the ball on three consecutive drives.
Don't blame Gruden going for two. He probably wishes they missed.
8-8
Help!
Let's hope the offseason actually makes a difference.
Awesome win and it is a great feeling to end the season on a high note.
Have a nice year everybody and I'll talk to you around draft time.
Regards Sandy
Not sure the Raiders hit a high note with that game but it's a win.
If we've learned anything:
Waller was just friggin' incredible.
Despite being inconsistent at times, Carr played well this year. Simply put, the Raiders don't have a better option at QB.
The Raiders whiffed badly across the board on defense. Gruden's late decision to replace Guenther was costly. Now the whole thing needs to be blown up.
That said, Jonathan Hankins deserves credit. He was among the best run defenders in the league.
Among the biggest disappointments, Abrams had a surprisingly bad year. We found out he sucks in coverage. The obvious call is to keep him close to the LOS, where he plays fast and hits hard... even if he sometimes takes bad angles.
Hate to be too tough on Arnette because he's a rookie, but he was pretty bad. Lawson is a serviceable career backup who was better than Arnette. Mullen had one notably bad game but was the best CB on the team.
Raiders need help on defense at every position! That became more evident when 3rd string replacements outplayed starters at the end of the season. After Littleton's injury, Morrow looked like he was going to be a stud, then fell apart at the end. He can be seen in today's highlight reel looking pretty stupid in coverage about 7-8 yards behind a TD reception.
There are many factors to consider, coaching included, but this defense easily qualifies for the Bill Callahan Award. It's hard to believe there might have been a defense in the league that was worse.
Here is a bold plan for Raiders off season.
1) Trade Carr for biggest, best package you can get.
2) Use extra draft picks, and free agency to finally, finally, build a defense.
3) Sign Marcus Mariotta to a 3 yr extension.
I like Carr but it comes down to this, Keeping Carr and slowly build a defense over next 2 to 3 years, or, build defense quickly with Mariotta as Qb.
So you are suggesting becoming the Titans? Mariotta had a great defense in Tennessee and did nothing, not too mention he had Derrick Henry and some good WRs. Plus cutting Carr doesn't save them money. Cutting Trent Brown and Tyrell Williams frees up $27 million this next year (which is what I think will happen). Last year was the year to cut Carr if they wanted to free up money, his contract from here on out is loaded and the majority of it is guaranteed. If they freed up $27 million by cutting Brown and Williams, I would make a push to snag TY Hilton.
Raiders don't need much defensively, and don't need 2 or 3 years, nor to I think it will be 2 or 3 years to build a defense, but that depends on who they sign as DC. From what Carr said in the presser after the game yesterday, it seems like there is a lot of guys on the defensive side of the ball who are not putting in the work and going through the motions.
Marinelli proved he is not effective; even as D-Line coach. They should have kept Buckner. I think they should hire Wade Phillips. I don't think Raheem Morris will be available as he will be the HC of the Falcons; but those are the only 2 I would consider for DC.
Regardless, here is what I think should happen:
The #1 thing they need on defense is a captain. Someone who will whip these numbskulls into shape and stick to their assignments. Charles Woodson was the last defensive captain.
#2-Raiders need a DT that will disrupt things. I am not big on Hankins. Yes, he is a good run defender, but that is where his abilities end. If they keep him, they need another DT to make a push on the QB because Mo Hurst is not cutting it either. I would make a serious push for both Shelby Harris (DT, Doncos) and/or Sheldon Rankins (DT, Saints) which are mid-tier level free agents that will not break the bank; but do more than Hankins and Hurst. I love stealing good players from Denver, who may also lose Von Miller too. If the Raiders want to spend big $$, then go after DaQuan Jones (Titans, DT).
#3-Raiders need someone opposite Maxx Crosby. If they want to spend big, sign Bud Dupree (EDGE, Steelers). Reasonable signings Everson Griffen (DE, Lions), re-sign Morrow, Aldon Smith (Cowboys, would love to have him back), Ezekiel Ansah (9ers).
#4-Raiders need a veteran DB. Patrick Peterson (Cardinals) would be a great fit here, but expensive. Other notables: MacKensie Alexander (Bengals), Jason McCourty (Pats), Malik Hooker (S, Colts), Keanu Neel (SS, Falcons). A lot of people on Twitter pushing for Richard Sherman, but he's lost a step, and gets beat deep. Maybe if the Raiders can use him like C-Wood, and move him to Safety, I would be down with that.
Raiders don't need much, nor do they need 2 or 3 years to build a defense. They can have a stout defense with 3 solid players. I would seriously pursue Shelby Harris (DT, Doncos), Everson Griffen, and either McCourty or Hooker; unless they could convince Sherman to play Safety. The main thing they need is the D-line to get pressure on the QB; something they haven't had since Mack left.
Here are the Raiders who are free agents:
Jonathan Hankins, Jason Witten, Nicholas Morrow, Takkarist McKinley, Erik Harris, Nathan Peterman, Denzelle Good, Nevin Lawson, Derek Carrier, Zay Jones, Kyle Wilber, Raekwon McMillan, Sam Young, Devontae Booker, Nelson Algholor, Theo Riddick, Daryl Worley, Vic Beasly, Dallin Leavitt, Trent Sieg, Daniel Carlson, and Kendall Vickers.
Of this list, here is who they should re-sign:
Morrow, Good, McMillan, Algholor, and Carlson. Maybe Sam Young.
We will see what happens now. JUST WIN, BABY!
Chargers fired Lynn Anthony as HC, this potentially frees up Gus Bradley to be the Raiders DC. I would be down with that too.
Derek Carr's 2020 season:
Career Rank
‣ 4,103 yards (Highest)
‣ 101.4 QB rate (Highest)
‣ 30 total TD (2nd highest)
‣ 256.4 ypg (2nd highest)
‣ 5 GWD (2nd highest)
Coronavirus:
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No NY, I. Johnson IS the best CB on that team.
If they don't want to keep Mariota they might be able to get a draft pick for him.
They really need a scouting convention to find some steals in the lower rounds. Another Crosby and I. Johnson.
They need to look at what Al's front office looked for in pass rushers(or the Cowboys, Vikings).
Please!, no 3-4 talk! the Raiders aren't going to spend on the talent to build it.
Please, don't trade those other young TEs' even though you didn't use them this is team may have the best group in the NFL.
Some good pass rushers for the Raiders:
Tyre Coleman, UDFA '15//51 career sacks.
Aldon Smith, oh yea, a guy who has overcome problems could help pass rush maybe
Cameron Wake
Clay Matthews III
Margus Hunt (Colts) Tall could play DT- 5th rounder might be a
Montez Sweat it might take a 2nd rounder and a player to get him.
Jerrett a 3rd and 6th rounders
Anthony Zettle
NFL Draft:
Rashad Weaver, Pittsburgh U.
Quency Roche, OLB-DE, Miami
Anon,
No one is talking about a 3-4 defense. We are only discussing that Wade Phillips should be the top candidate for the Raiders as D-Coordinator. Yes, he prefers a 3-4 defense, but has coached a handful of 4-3 defenses in his career and has done an outstanding job with a 4-3 defense as well.
As an update, my family and I are doing well. My wife, daughter, and I are gaining back our sense of smell, and are not showing anymore symptoms. Zinc and vitamins C and D have helped us improved, and are proven to help against long-term affects. I still experience fatigue about 3 or 4pm, unless I play wiffle ball with my son (who never experienced anything), and I have heard it may take a few weeks to regain my stamina. I can see how this virus has adverse effects on the elderly and those with auto-immune systems. It felt like I was dealing with severe asthma, like I used to as a kid. I overcame asthma by long distance running, and strengthening my lungs when I was in High School and College. I hadn't had difficulty in breathing like that in 30-32 years. It was scary.
With that said, I am skeptical with what the Raiders do this offseason. I believed this was a make or break season for Gruden. There were a lot of positives for Gruden in the first 9 games, and we cannot take that away. We saw what the Raiders were capable of in those 9 games; but we saw the team wear out the last 7, going a dismal 2-5; when it easily could have been a 5-2 run. Defense is the glaring issue, fix that, and I think we are seeing a different team; a Championship team. So, yes, he hasn't faired well thus far; but Gruden has had some tremendous moments. I'm not as optimistic as these sentences sound, but he's the coach for the next 6 years. I think the mantra for the Raiders this off-season is "Just Get It Right, Baby!"
RaiderNate75, glad to hear all is going well with you and your family.
Yes, becoming the Titans is appealing right now. At least with Mariotta Titans were a playoff team. So yes, I want the Raiders to become that.
You say the Raiders don't need much to improve the D. But you say they need 2 DT's, a DE opposite Crosby, and help in the secondary. That's a lot right there I think.
And what about linebackers? I think Raiders LB's are terrible. Need help there too, so that covers every level of the D.
It's going to be a big fix, and Carr is the best asset Raiders have. i'm not saying cut him, but rather trade him to one of the many QB starved teams in NFL.
Wade Phillips would be great, i'd love it, but even old Wade needs some good players.
Nate, first, very happy to hear you and your family are recovering. Outstanding!
I'm disappointed you left Hankins off your list of FAs to re-sign. PFF posted some time ago that Hankins graded among the best run defenders in the league. Nothing's changed IMO he's the best interior lineman the Raiders have.
Anon (Zinc guy), The coaches disagree with you about Johnson. Johnson has been a backup since he was drafted. His extended play this year was mostly due to injury depth. That said, he's a big CB and has shown spurts of brilliance. Most likely he's not going anywhere and should get a legit chance to start (possibly replace Arnette).
My take on Mariotta vs. Carr is that Carr has a bigger arm and is more accurate. Mariotta is better at RPO and throwing on the run. However, once teams seal the edges and force Mariotta back to the pocket, Carr is by far the better QB, IMHO.
I was surprised (but not shocked) to hear Carr had 5 game-winning drives this year. He is among the best QBs in the league in that regard. Those stats don't lie. If not for the Raiders bad defense, Carr would have had more.
Let's face it, Gruden and Carr are not going anywhere. These are the guys the Raiders will have to win with..., or in spite of.
Best thing the Raiders could do for Carr is bring back Musgrave and reestablish that mojo. Of course that could never happen because of the enormous chip on Gruden's shoulder.
Here are a few players I am going to follow closely in the Sr Bowl, Combine, and Draft. I think, right now, they have the potential to be hidden gems because of the schools they have played at. I think the Raiders should have their scouts take serious looks at these players too.
Elerson Smith (DE, Northern Iowa, 6'7,245 lbs) - This is the one player I am truly excited about seeing, and will gain exposure and learn more about his during the Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine leading into the draft. He is not getting a lot of media play because of his school, and the fact that he did not play in 2020. I don't think he will be a hidden gem for too long though, as I think he is comparable to Khalil Mack coming into the draft. His 2019 stats: 14 sacks, 26 TFL, 63 Tackles, and 5 Forced Fumbles. Compare this to Gregory Rousseau (DE, Miami) who did not play in 2020 either. Rousseau's stats for 2019 were 15.5 sacks, 22 TFL, 54 Tackles, and 2 Forced Fumbles; yet all the scouts are talking about Rousseau, comparing him to Clowney, Bosa brothers, and Garrett as a player because he played at a bigger school. Yet, no one is talking about Elerson Smith. Again, depending on Senior Bowl and Combine, he could be the steal of the draft. Keep an eye on this name.
DeAngelo Malone (OLB, Western Kentucky, 6'4, 230 lbs) - recorded 11.5 sacks, 23 TFL, 99 Tackles in 2019. Another sleeper that nobody is talking about; but someone to watch.
Tarron Jackson (DE, Coastal Carolina 6'2, 265 lbs) He is the second DE under Elerson Smith that I am watching, who has put up some decent numbers and has been consistently explosive.
Malcolm Koonce (DE, Buffalo, 6'3, 250 lbs) - Doesn't have explosive numbers, but has been a consistent tackling machine with consistent pressure.
William Bradley-King (DE, Baylor). He transferred from Arkansas St where he had 8.5 sacks, 16 TFL, 49 Tackles, and 3 FF in 2019. He came to a bigger school and in 2020 had 3.5 Sacks, 6 TFL, 26 Tackles, and 1 FF. He could be a late round gem.
Dustin Crum (QB, Kent St, 6'3, 201 lbs). In 4 games this year, he completed 73% of his passes (83 of 113) for 1,181 yards, 12 TDs, 2 INTs, rushed 44 times for 240 yards and 4 TDs. His 2019 stats: 216 comp. of 312 attempts, 2,622 yards, 20 TDs, 2 INTs, rushed 168 times for 707 yards, 6 TDs. Could be a late round pick to be a backup QB to Carr, and maybe the future QB of the Raiders.
Other below-the-radar players to watch for in the Sr Bowl, Combine, and Draft. I think these are all positions the Raiders target in the draft as well:
Jerome Johnson (DT, Indiana, 6'3, 304lbs) - I think he is one of the most exciting DT in the draft, along with the below player Durden. Neither have big numbers, but both are consistent in pressure and tackling. Something the Raiders lack at this position.
Cory Durden (DT, Florida St, 6'5, 312 lbs)
Hamilcar Rashed Jr (OLB, Oregon St)
Quincy Roche (OLB/DE, Miami)
Dillon Radunz (OT, North Dakota St)
Spencer Brown (RT, Northern Iowa) - another small school hidden gem, especially with what Tom Cable has done with the O-Line. I think he or Abraham Lucas becomes a target for the Raiders if they cut Trent Brown, which I think they do. But I like Brown better than Lucas. Something about Iowa O-line and D-line players, they have a mean mentality.
Brady Christensen (OT, BYU)
Abraham Lucas (RT, Washington St)
Javonte Williams (RB, North Carolina) - A big RB, and good goal line/short yardage back that could be the thunder to Jacobs power running.
Jhamon Ausbon (WR, TX A&M) did not play in 2020.
Warren Stewart (WR, Colorado St) did not play in 2020.
Andre Cisco (S, Syracuse)
Chase Lucas (CB, Arizona St)
Tariq Castro-Fields (CB, Penn St)
Keith Taylor (CB, Washington)
Elijah Molden (CB, Washington)
Would the Jets trade Raiders 2nd overall pick for Carr ? Just a thought.
What I've seen in terms of college player rankings is that the 2021 draft lacks defensive talent at the top of the draft. Combine that with the Raiders lack of success at the top of the draft and trading Carr for the #2 might be a recipe for disaster, IMO.
I think the Raiders are fine in the middle of the first round, and I believe their best work might be in the middle of the draft, which is consistent with their recent history.
Honestly, I believe it's critically important for the Raiders to start this offseason by securing their own best FAs so they don't create more holes to fill in their roster.
Hankins and Good are big guys that the Raiders need. These guys are top priority IMO.
Morrow is serviceable but also replaceable. I'm okay either way.
Erik Harris is no better than a backup. Raiders need to improve at safety.
Booker and Algholor are worth keeping. Algholor was among the best deep threats in the NFL. Raiders would miss him!
Trent Sieg is the long snapper. That should be easy.
Carlson deserves another contract after a great year.
Carrier is probably worthy but let Whitten go. Moreau is a better option as #2 TE at this point.
Take care of in-house business first. There are several players worth retaining.
Btw, Jacobs got a DUI around 4 AM in Vegas. What's he celebrating?
Raiders have requested interview with current Chargers DC, Gus Bradley. Must be another "FOG", ..friend of Gruden.
Even with a better pass rush, the Chargers defense wasn't any better than the Raiders this year. They gave up 26.5 pts per game. Knock on Chargers D at the end of 2020 was they got burned in the 2nd half of games.
I hope Gruden interviews some serious candidates. Otherwise, he might as well draft for offense because outscoring opponents will remain a necessity.
So far, media are reporting the top three candidates for Raiders DC are all former Gruden staff members. Gus Bradley, Joe Barry and Raheem Morris. Barry's claim to fame is LB coach who helped develop Cory Littleton. So instead of upgrading Littleton's position, Raiders might go all-in and build their defense around Littleton.
That's scary!
It's early in the process but Gruden is quoted as saying the hunt for a DC "will be a fast process"
Hiring is a fast process but firing a bad coach takes years....
Not to be outdone by Gruden's relationships to all DC candidates, turns out Joe Barry is Marinelli’s son-in-law.
Are the Raiders capable of viewing the NFL outside their personal relationships? I think that's a fair question.
Raheem Morris is interviewing for Falcons HC, and now the Jags have requested to interview him for the HC job there too. I think he will be a HC and is off the list.
Wade Phillips is pushing hard to join the Raiders too. I think he is the Raiders strongest candidate, whom both Marinelli and Bary have worked with Wade; so that may be why the Raiders are asking about Joe Barry. Again, I know Phillips likes the 34, but has coached the 43 before too. He is the best candidate, and will prove to me that Gruden wants to win.
I'm not sold on Gus Bradley as a candidate either, just not an exciting name. His claim to fame is Seattle's Legion of Boom, but that was more Pete Carroll than Bradley. Joe Barry has no DC experience, so I am really not sold on him.
I don't believe the Raiders will hire a high-powered DC.
I'm not seeing the Wade Phillips connection to the Raiders, other than reports that Phillips might like to be hired.
Gruden is pursuing friends and relatives of friends. Meaning the Raiders success is going to require luck, something the Raiders have been short on the past 18 years.
Monte Kiffin got some, if not most of the credit for Grudens Tampa super bowl win.
I guess Gruden is sensitive to not being overshadowed again. So a no name DC is what he looks for.
I tend to agree. Tong Dungy and Monte Kiffin built the defense that beat the Raiders. Ironically, it was Gruden's offense they beat.
I thought Gruden reached pretty far down the trough for Guenther. He has to do better this time!
If Al ('03-'11) had bad luck it wasn't from lack of trying to win. How the Raiders didn't go to another SB those years is a mystery.
When during that period didn't they have personnel? and the coaches?
Oh, I know it was dysfunction, Gannon and Gruden leaving and the SHOCK(?) of losing the SB.
Since '12 we've had two GMs' and three HCs' and a complete erasing of Al's system. Yet we just don't win .
* media- The Raiders need become a "model franchise".
The Raiders succeeded because they refused to limited by NFL conservative, greed driven system. In fact, the Raiders with others, changed and improved the NFL. Being like the other franchises except (Halas, Shram and Hunt) means being about Money and forget changing society and the game.
* media- Al ruined the Raiders with salary cap, overpriced FA and bad drafts.
If Al did it happened over a few months. They were AFC Champions ('03) and maybe the best team in the AFC a few years before that. KC is much more like the teams that lose (Al's) who spend on vets and draft for speed and size. Maybe it was hating Al, not his system that got all that media hate.
If you want a Belichik, Ariens or Dundy coached team that wins with passion, high character ask youself why didn't Reggie's years get us more than one winning season?
Maybe the Pats can beat loaded teams but the Raiders couldn't, maybe some speed and size and expensive contracts might help them.
* media- Gruden/ Mayock need TIME to REBUILD this team.
Excuse me? Reggie had 7 years! How much more time do they need? BTW I thought he could draft a team to winning? Maybe when he fired ALL Al's coaches and players he whiffed on a chance to win faster.
* media- Raidernation some are afraid of change, delusional and into conspiracies.
That the NFL didn't tamper with the Raiders! its' been 18 years of bad decisions that didn't appear until '03? That the firing of All Al's employees wasn't strange, it happens when new staff come in. Not only a loaded team with good coaches not being able to have a winning season but the new Raiders having worse problems. The idea that the other owners took action before Al passed then moved to have some say in and a hand in the Raiders.
No that can't happen it was all Al, John, Reggie, Mike and dysfunction, bad decisions.
The worst thing that happened after Al died and Mark took over, was letting Amy Trask go. The Raiders are a product of their own bad decisions and dysfunction. After we lost Gannon to injury, name a quality QB that they fielded before Derek Carr? Aaron Brooks? Matt Schaub? Kerry Collins? Andrew Walter? JaMarcus Russell? Really the only 2 QB's that deserve any mention during this time are Jason Campbell and Carson Palmer under Hue Jackson and Tom Cable as HC. But neither had any weapons at WR or RB.
Al Davis overpaid players like Tommy Kelly, who were not producing until after they were cut and went to a different team; and yes, the Raiders were salary cap strap with bad players on the roster. Say what you want about Reggie, he came in in 2012, and had 5 years to build a team, get them out of salary cap hell, and still put together the base for the team's success. Under Reggie, they made the play-offs in 2016. The reason Del Rio did not get farther the next year was because they let Musgrave walk. Had he stayed as OC, the Raiders would have done well in 2017; but Del Rio knew at that time that Mark Davis was in contractual talks with Jon Gruden before the 2017 season even began. Mark did not resign Musgrave, knowing it would thwart a good year, so he could have a reason to let Del Rio go. Del Rio knew, because he and Gruden share the same agent. Reggie had 5 years to build a competitive team, and you cannot tell me that when Gruden came in the thought of what he would do with Carr and the offense, and Mack on the defense was beautiful. We all imagined that the Raiders would no longer be the bottom of the barrell.
Yet, what did Gruden do? He dismantled everything that Reggie built, starting with Khalil Mack. The only exception has been Derek Carr. When Gruden came aboard, we had an above-average defense that needed a few pieces around Mack; and an above-average offense that needed a RB and very minimal. Yet, Gruden came in and blew the whole house down, and is not even close to fielding a team that Reggie/Del Rio had. The whole argument "We can't spend $$ on Mack and Carr and be competitive" is bogus; because they used the $$ from Mack and paid Trent Brown, whom they are about to cut. They are a product of their own bad decisions and dysfunction. Quite frankly, their dysfunction stems from Mark Davis giving Gruden "absolute" power when it comes to football operations without accountability.
Raider Nate 75 you make up conspiracy theories and facts.
Raiders had a an above average defense in 2017? what team were you watching? they were ranked 23rd, last in interceptions, they sucked. Reggie was a failure and Del Rio is mediocre at best.
Trent Brown got a 66 million contract an average salary of 16 and 36 guaranteed. Khalil got a $141 million contract 90 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $23 million. Huge difference. Trent Brown wont be cut and when healthy is more valuable than Mack given the position he plays and the fact he is a better player. Yes he needs to get on the field but when he does he is dominant or perhaps you don't recall last year against Chicago when Brown dominated Mack what he does to Bosa and how he completely shut down Frank Clark.
Your welcome to your opinion but spare us the falsehoods.
I seem to remember Del Rio really dropped the ball on defense. Aside from letting Musgrave go, defense was the issue that bothered me most about Del Rio. He had Ken Norton Jr as DC and, like Gruden, waited way too long to fire him. But unlike Gruden, Del Rio is a defensive coach, so the play of the defense fell squarely on his shoulders.
Also, as I remember, negotiations for Mack were in the Von Miller range, just under $20M a year. That figure was inflated with Chicago due to the trade. But I'm past the Mack deal. That's history.
Plenty of blame to go around. It's been a perfect storm of bad decisions, bad coaches and bad players. It literally could not have been any worse. Raiders have the fewest winning seasons of any team in the NFL over the past 18 seasons (one!). They have become the George Costanza of the NFL. Everything they do fails, to the point which doing the opposite is the most logical path.
It's time to take that (opposite) path and NOT hire another friend of Gruden to be DC, but instead hire a high-powered defensive coach to come in and run the defense.
No more excuses! No more failures!
So, I thought that we were supposed to stop listening to guys who aren't consistent who 'meddle' with their coaches (Al). I thought it was ALL IN on Reggie or any "model franchise"/ NFL connected guy did. Why are you now questioning Gruden?
Seems like the Raiders just can't win whether they are rebels as of '03 or finally work with the NFL and become a "model franchise".
Why are you questioning Gruden if all you need to do is draft guys, keep the salary cap low and sign good (not necessarily star) FAs'?
You're meddling, just like Al! All you need is a game manage qb and passionate, high character players. You don't need speed, size. You don't need kickers who can blast the ball 60 yards in the air, you just need to make a qb (Brady, Rodgers or Big Ben) the center piece and pay them guaranteed contracts but nobody else.
You screw your fan base with untrue claims (new stadium are for expensive FAs'). Charging ultra high prices to see the games on a generic product even having the nerve to justify it(PARITY)- So fans will keep spending money on a money making scheme.
You fool the public into thinking NFL players are making a lot more money by giving them big contracts that aren't guaranteed.
Yea, that's your NFL and that's what Al and J. Jones and a few others were taking a stand against. Al took a stand and they tampered with the team. 18 years? after you listened to the NFL telling you all it took was getting the old system out and Al out and bringing NFL people (modern NFL) in and the Raiders would be better soon.
Yea,.....Listen, Al was decades ahead of the NFL both in business and the game.
He did things in the past but was still doing well with coaches and players.
The NFL is about MONEY and Power and they now are more into legal power and politics that ever.
Al and others were standing against this and Al not only tried to ignore this system but he also stood with Gene Uphaw's NFLPA.
Bad decisions? Really? How can a man gone for 10 years make them? Raidernation! I think it was more power of the NFL that put the Raiders in this mess.
Gruden is the guy in charge. He deserves the heat. It's on him right now, just like it was on Reggie before Gruden and Al before that. Water finds its level but the buck stops at the top.
Al certainly wasn't infallible and, much to the chagrin of Raiders fans who knew the Raiders when they were a good team, he proved as much for the better part of two decades before he died. Al is gone, Reggie is ancient history, and the current Raiders are left to be their own caregivers. It's up to the Raiders to navigate the NFL and make better decisions. Dumber organizations have fared better. Being perennial losers is no way to run a $3B sports franchise. Raiders get to pick GMs, coaches and players from the same pool as everybody else. There's no higher power preventing the Raiders from fielding an "average" team for the last 18 years.
This list of former Raiders in the playoffs is really interesting.
https://raiderswire.usatoday.com/2021/01/09/former-raiders-on-wild-card-weekend-playoff-rosters/
Many folks posting here over the years have criticized former Raiders players as mediocre or worse as the Raiders let them go. Even Mack, with 30 sacks since becoming a Bear, was kicked on his way out. While Mack may have deservedly lost fan loyalty, other decent players were just shown the door. Yet, some of their careers since have proved to be legit and possibly better than any player the Raiders brought to replace them.
In the past, I've defended keeping players like Feliciano, Benson Mayowa, Denico Autry, Cordarrelle Patterson and most recently Will Compton. All these guys have matched or exceeded the play of current Raiders at their position. There are others too. Check out the list. It's long!
Possibly, some of these guys shined when placed on better teams with better cultures. Raiders haven't exactly exuded a culture of winning.
Cornoavirus help:
Vitamin C
Zinc
orange juice
vitamin D
garlic
lemons
oranges
Clean your windows on outside.
be careful about air coming in and in home.
wipe down every two days (mon wed fri)
Tyre Coleman UDFA '15 51 career sacks.
SJSU DL C. Hall
Miami U. DE/ OLB Quentin Roche
Pittsburgh U. DE/ OLB
Miami U. DE Greg Rossenau
Bad players?
Kelly, K. Wembley, R. Seymore, T. Scott, D. Burgess, J. Richardson, L. Houston, C. Clemons, M. Shaunessey, C. Cooper, M. Brodine and D. Bryant made up some of the best D-lines in football and clearly the best overall in the AFC West (I don't think V. Miller was in the NFL yet '11).
D-line in '11:
K. Wembly 7
T. Kelly 7.5 and 1 int.
D. Bryant 5
R. Seymore 6
R. McClain 5 and 1 safety
Sorry, the Pats long wanted a player like Kelly who was a pro bowl level player. So he was good enough for Bellichick.
DBs' in '11:
S. Routt can't play! Track guy. F. Washington a bust? Well, maybe but Routt would be the best CB over this 9 year slump.
S. Routt 4
M. Giordano 5
Has any db had 5 picks since '11?
T. Branch shut out 'Gronk' the whole game (in Oakland '12) without a good pass rush.
db team Ints.- 18
QB in '11:
* Brooks, Collins and Palmer who played well with other teams and Pryor were all good enough to win; the "new" Raiders just refused to help these guys. These guys didn't need to be pro bowlers, just good play should've been able to win with all the talent around them. As much as they won with other teams they never had that kind of talent around them.
RBs in '11:
* DMAC
* J. Fargas
* M. Bush
* L. Jordan
DMAC was underrated and Raidernation put him down but he showed up in Dallas.
Bush was maybe he best. He was a pro bowl level rb. Jordan was a very good player. Fargas? isn't this the kind of player sports media said we needed- average, high character but he had Al speed too.
Al's TEs Z. Miller, B. Myers., C. Anderson.
Miller was good, Anderson did o.k.
Meyers was one of the best special teamers in the NFL.
That '16 team lost to a bad Texan's team that lost 30-0. That's one thing about Al and Walsh's 49ers didn't do was have bad playoff teams(well, maybe the '90 game against Bills).
Name any other two qbs' that Reggie or Gruden had that was that good?
And 5 years?!? why would it take 5 years in a PARITY system?
Who took away the qb's weapons? Murphy, FORD, N. Miller, D. Moore, F. Gordon. Reggie got rid of all Al's receivers.
Reggie/ Gruden: A. Cooper, R. Streater was o.k. they let James Jones and Jordy Nelson go. Agholor and Renfoe did very well and Waller is a star.
Under Reggie, the Raiders had the worst secondaries in the NFL, mediocre-average D-lines and the LBs were just average-good.
Al's Raiders ('11):
pass rush, run game, secondary, linebackers and special teams.
Gruden and Reggie ('12-present):
QB, receivers/ TEs' and O-line.
Al had the better run game and defenses.
the best STs' in the NFL.
Reggie/ Gruden have overall best receivers and QB Carr only because they stuck with Carr and he got better (Reggie wouldn't give Campbell a chance and they ruined Palmer's .They have had some very good O-lines.
No, Al Never had a bad team personnel wise during that slump and should've been to another SB. You can't explain why they had that slump. The only claims are Gannon retiring, Gruden trade and dysfunction. Not on an Al team.
The Raiders looked as good as, if not better than most 31 other teams in the NFL('11). Oh, but losing the SB, Gannon and Gruden and dysfunction caused a nine year slump.
Anybody claiming to want to rebuild the Raiders can now come in and Raidernation will listen to them.
They put ex-Raiders in the boss seats and fans just accept them and don't question why. A man ruins a team but you think his ex-employees can rebuild the team.
The NFL and sports media wants a Raiders team that will be good guys and not cause them trouble. If they can put a face fans will listen to but get rid of everything that is connected to the real Raiders and move, bring in NFL people and make Raidernation think its a good thing then the fans really aren't asking questions.
Feb 4th there is going to be a new 30 for 30 documentary about Al Davis vs the NFL. It looks amazing, and we will see some of why the NFL hates the Raiders, and how Al Davis bucked the system (and rightfully so). I didn't agree with everything Al Davis did, but he did do things in the interest of the Raiders, and not the League. It's gonna be good.
Al didn't always do things in the best interest of the Raiders. For example, benching Marcus Allen wasn't in the best interest of the team nor its fans. It was downright painful to watch Allen on the sideline, then even more painful when he left for KC.
As for the previous post, if 2011 was a benchmark of Raiders best effort over the past 18 years..., well, there's not much meat on that bone. Raiders best players were Shane Lechler, Sebastian Janikowski and Jon Condo. Of course Richard Seymour was a great player in his day.
That's the year Tom Cable was let go and Hue Jackson became HC. Jackson was a nut and his power trip with the Raiders would be short lived.
GMs, coaches and players. None exist in a vacuum. They all have to work together to create a product on the field. Raiders have fallen short for too long. It's not up to the NFL to flip a switch and allow the Raiders to win. It's up to the Raiders to take responsibility and figure out how to win. 31 other teams in the league have been better for 18 years, and some for much longer.
No,
M. Bush- a pro-bowl RB
K. Wembley/ Came from Browns, had 7 sacks last season in Oakland.
T. Kelly/ a guy who could stop the run and pressure the qb.
D. Burgess/ 16 sacks set a Raiders season record
C. Clemons/ FA OLB the Raiders turned into a star.
T.Scott/ good pass rushing DE/OLB
D. Moore/ Reggie's coaches purposely kept him off the field.
DMAC/ outstanding but criticized by
Raidernation. Proved himself with Cowboys.
M. Shaugnessey/ good run defender and could play DT and DE and rush the passer.
D. Bryant/ almost a pro-bowl level DT.
T. Goethel/ this should tell you something about your "new era". This guy backed up McClain, he was 6'2" 255 and Reggie's coaches refused to let him play. There was no reason he couldn't play MLB.
L. Houston/ almost pro-bowl level DT.
J. Ford/ he still has more KR TD's than any Raider since '10 and he could play WR good.
K. Morrison and R. Brown/ good LBs who played well for Raiders. Brown was a good cover LB.
T. Howard/ Raiders haven't had a cover LB since Howard played.
T. Branch/ A pro-bowl level SS
M. Huff/
C. Johnson/ Outstanding cover CB.
T. Jones/ Yea, just a fast guy! this guy was a very good gunner and has been doing it with Bills and Texans. The new Raiders refused to let him run the ball and after he returned a KR over 80 yards they wouldn't let him do that.
S. Routt/ another track guy the Raiders let go. What other CB has had 4 picks in a season? He would be the best CB since '12 on Raiders.
J. Vehldeer/ Reggie claimed Jared said he "Didn't want to be a Raider". Now, then let him walk because of hate for Al.
Marcell Reece/ Some say he was the best FB in the NFL. I don't think so, he was exciting but why Al's coaches didn't use him more I don't know new Raiders didn't use him.
S. Wisnewski/ your "new era" was on this guy from day one. They were biased with him. Maybe it was part of payback on Al (Wisnewski is already connected to the team). He has played in two SBs'.
L. Murphy/
J. Richardson/ This guy batted down a lot of passes and could rush the passer.
Nnamdi/ Really?...dude! ('03-'11) this team was LOADED those 9 years!
If Hue was a nut with Power maybe it was because the whole sports media was going after ANYBODY running the Raiders that the NFL didn't pick.
How many people take over something that is so hated and concentrate? Oh...and why did he go NUTS with power? because he made changes? Like trading for a pro bowl QB and signing a few other guys from the Bengals?
That and because he criticized the players after stinking against the Broncos.
And you think they loss because of the awesome Broncos and the arm of Teebow. I bet Steelers' fans feel the same way.
Reggie got rid of a whole team. Gruden keeps hiring guys Al and Reggie's coaches fired.
I see a team LOADED and good enough to beat the Pats, Chargers and Teebow's Broncos but they didn't.
If the Broncos could beat the Raiders and Steelers then the Raiders could win the SB.
Hue and Tomlin should be upset about losing those games.
If you really believe Oakland didn't have any talent in '11 then maybe you build team cheaply with above average talent and Hue just didn't have a good team and didn't know it.
Raiders have hired Gus Bradley as DC. I am not sold on this hire. Gus is claiming that he established the "Legion of Boom" defense in Seattle, but we all know that that is Pete Carroll's doing. Gus Bradley may have been the DC during that building, but that title is comparable to Greg Olsen's title of OC under Gruden. We all know that the Raiders are not running Olsen's offense, but Gruden's. It is the same with Seattle's defense. They give the same title to Dan Quinn, who was recently hired by the Cowboys. Plus, look at the track record both Quinn and Bradley have had since leaving Seattle; not very promising.
Gruden is allowing him to put together a new staff, with the exception of Marinelli.
I expect Kris Richards and Joe Barry to be a part of his staff in some capacity very soon. Hopefully, Barry will be the new LB's Coach, and Richards an assistant DC/DB coach title.
Gus is not big on blitzes, but a strong 4 man front push to the QB, while LB's and DB's cover. Has not been too successful with this in recent years.
I said it at the start of this search, that if Gruden did not hire either Wade Phillips or Raheem Morris, he has shown that he is not committed to winning or Committed to Excellence. I think this hire proves it. I'm disappointed.
I know I said earlier that I would be down with Gus Bradley, and then I started reading about his recent success, or lack thereof, which in comparison to Phillips and Morris, is what changed my feelings toward Bradley.
Raiders were 8-8 under Hue Jackson in 2011. They were coming off 8-8 with Tom Cable in 2010, and headed for 4-12 with Dennis Allen in 2012.
Jackson had Al Davis's ear... so much so, Davis dumped Cable to promote Jackson. IMO, that and Al's death are what emboldened Jackson to make power grabbing comments like, "I'm going change the whole building."
Al died and Reggie was hired. Exit Jackson.
So the Raiders went through three HCs and two GMs in three years. That's not the NFL screwing the Raiders. Those are unfortunate circumstances compounded by bad decision-making.
Even great players need good coaches and good game planning and adjustments to be successful. IMO, the 2011 Raiders, as a team, were only as good as their record. The Patriots went 14-2 without Richard Seymour.
Raiders now have the most continuity they've had since Al died. They squeaked out 8-8 record this year and fired their DC. While I try to remain cautiously optimistic, not much has changed in LV.
Who's Gus Bradley but another friend of Jon Gruden. The most wins the Jags had in Bradley's four years as HC was 5. He compiled a record of 14-48 as Jags HC. His defense was ranked 23rd last year before his HC was fired.
IMHO, the Raiders will need to be better than the people they've assembled. Is that possible? Sure. But only time will tell.
I haven't read much about Gus Bradley but there's an obvious argument to be made why he might be a good fit for the Raiders.
First, before his defense was bad, it was good. He had a couple good years with the Chargers, albeit, with a better roster (he had some guy named Bosa).
Second, he knows the Chargers offense. He knows Hebert, who is going to be the Chargers QB for a lot of years.
Third, Bradley is familiar with the Broncos and, more importantly, the Chiefs. He's coached in the division.
Does that make him a better choice? I have no idea, but it sounds good.
One more point, since I playing devils advocate, I can offer a small consolation to Guenther, who was given amble time to succeed but failed to field a decent defense.
When Guenther was hired, Mack was a Raider. Guenther came on board and Mack never played a single snap in Guenther's defense. That was a pretty nasty bait and switch by Gruden.
Bradley has a body of work. It's not all good but it's not all bad either. In order to be successful, the Raiders will need to provide better personnel.
Where's the 2011 roster when we need it?
I'm not reading anywhere that Gruden went outside his circle to interview or even discuss the open DC position. Nothing about Dan Quinn or Wade Phillips, or anyone else Gruden doesn't already have a connection.
Sounds like a rushed process without adequate due diligence.
What's the tolerance level of Mark Davis if Gruden screws up this hire too?
As I've said before, when Gruden was successful with the Raiders 20 years ago, Al Davis was making all the decisions. Chuck Bresnahan was DC and, boy, doesn't he look like a genius right now compared to Paul Guenther. Raiders defense ranked 9th in pts allowed (18.7/g).
Greg Biekert (one of the Raiders truly stout MLBs)
Charles Woodson
Eric Allen (Woodson and Allen played CB opposite each other... wow!)
Grady Jackson (8 sacks from the interior D-line)
Tony Braynt (5.5 sacks off the edge)
Roderick Coleman (6 sacks from the interior D-line)
Regan Upshaw (6 sacks off the edge)
Better coaching, better personnel, better record!
Hopefully, due diligence won't stand in the way of Gruden making a good decision for the team.
I hope Gruden doesn't try to sell that the Raiders can no longer afford big contracts for QB and defensive player anymore. I mean, Mark Davis just bought a WNBA Team in Vegas. He better be dropping cash on the Raiders needs to win a Super Bowl.
There are provisions - presumably in the CBA - that prevent teams from not spending money. Just like there's a salary cap, there's also a minimum. Teams are subject to fines if they don't spend cumulatively at a predetermined minimum level every three years.
One way or another, all teams have to spend the money. Which makes it even more puzzling why the Raiders couldn't reach parity pay dirt over the past 18 years.
Think of all the top-10 draft picks the Raiders have burned through to still be the worst team over an 18-year period.
Talking about guys like JaMarcus Russell, Robert Gallery, Darius Heywood Bay, DJ Hayden, Fabian Washington, Michael Huff, Rolando McClain, Gareon Conley, and even good players that have been jettisoned, like Cooper and Mack, who are no longer on the team.
That's a lot of wasted draft capital.
NY guy just goes on this site to hate on Raiders---he is Chiefs fan for sure. All his comments are putting down Raiders. If it was once in awhile okay but it seems weird that someone who is a Raider fan always hates team
...coming from Anonymous guy who feels the need to police opinions instead of offering one.
If we're talking about what the Raiders have done to get to the position they currently find themselves in, well..., sorry, if it's not all roses.
The Raiders have among the most recognized brands in the world. Fans (and enemies) are promised commitment to excellence but, lately, shown nothing remotely close to that. We all, including you my friend, deserve more.
Alternately, if there is to be no accountability, then we can all hold hands and sing kumbaya.
Maybe we can talk about the good ole days, '76, '81, '83. During this period, the Raiders were perennial season winners. In fact, if you go back and look at their season records, you will see they were exactly opposite of today's Raiders.
Those Raiders won 17 of 18 seasons, while today's Raiders have lost 17 of the last 18 (i.e., 17 seasons without a winning record).
What's your take on that?
Ummmm.....NY, the Raiders were pro SPORT'S winningest team for 28 years so just "Good 'ol days" isn't just a few seasons.
The Raiders had some many games they lost or the refs lost for them in the playoffs you'd almost think they were out to get Al back then(maybe).
That Anon was right about one thing it seems the NFL-sports media wants to tell us its' o.k. for other teams' playoffs to count with Championships but what Raiders did is just a few seasons.
That Anon thinks the new Raiders are the same as Al's and that's cool but I just think the new NFL isn't taking the positive Al ideas with them in fact are trying to erase them.
The Raiders' good 'ol days are more than Super Bowls its' playoffs, great games, things they did for pro sports,
Wasted draft capital? No, its' what Raidernation thought Reggie/ Gruden I think Al drafted and signed well but for some strange reason it just didn't help. He spent on stars guys already pro bowlers.
I just don't think the Raiders could slump like that unless something was ruining their operation.
So if being cheap and signing good- real good with a few stars players is the ONLY way to win, then, I think you seriously are seeing something strange.
If Al's teams had good to outstanding with a few more stars then shouldn't they be winning in a league of average teams.
The average team pitch is shady, it keeps the salaries cheap it promotes so called model franchises that promote those ideas and it makes these billionaires who don't want to spend guaranteed money on the players look are doing things good and are changing the NFL into a better thing.
Now, I ask you without loaded teams (other than Pitt, SD, Manning's Indy) to play them all the time, just how did the Raiders lose all those games?
A team that was the model franchise (PATS) because they are cheap and somehow got superstar players in some strangely trades or FA signings can win with mostly average talent and a HOF qb just wouldn't be that big of a thing in the 80s'-90s' I don't think the old 49ers, Raiders, Cowboys or Bills would be impressed and suddenly start losing unless they were forced to play in a PARITY system.
The Raiders HAD more than enough talent win ('03-'11) they just Slumped. They had the players and coaches to win...Oh yea, and a GM to help young coaches but Oh you can't win unless you have above average players with a few stars and a cheap roster?
And you don't see something shady about that?
Steelers
Ravens
Packers
now '20- : KC
NFC East? NY Giants and Eagles
90s' teams/
Cowboys/ LOADED and very good staff! HOFs' all over this team. Outstanding, quick D.
Raiders/ Not as good as the 80s' but winning team in early 90s'. Great D.(except in Bills loss 51-3).
Bills/ LOADED team on O and D!
49ers/ Young, Waters and Owens and outstanding D.
Packers/ got Reggie White from Eagles and had good DBs', and linebackers. Outstanding players on O.
Vikings/ Loaded with three 6'2"-6'4" wide receivers, good qb and good D. RB Robert Smith just made that Vikings' O more awesome.
The teams in the 90s' were mostly Loaded either built from the draft or signing big, expensive FAs' or draft and affordable FAs' or both. Now, not ALL teams needed that to succeed, some can do it without doing that.
But it does show that spending on expensive FA's and signing some athletic, fast guys (from the draft or other teams) can help a team win. There is no evidence many teams drafted for size and size or signed UDFA or FA because of their speed and size-, other than the Raiders. But it does show that LOADED, SPENDING teams can win too. So this sports media-NFL made idea that you just get passionate guys and game manager coaches is about a sports media trying to get fans to accept the NFL trying to help owners keep salary caps low.
I watched the '76 '81 and '83 Super Bowls. I know what the Raiders once were but that period is literally two generations ago. The Raiders held it together for a while after that, but their mystique faded over decades of mediocrity.
Before Al died, he clearly spread himself too thin. IMO, that hurt the Raiders, as did his strange relationships with guys like Kiffin, Cable and Jackson. Suffice to say, Davis had his obsessions and they weren't always in the best interest of the Raiders.
Raiders were always (and still are) swinging for the fences early in the draft, reaching for project players because they were bigger or faster than more highly scouted players. Maybe that works for a team without glaring needs but not for a team that's been in a two-decade long rebuild. When it comes to drafting, over the past 20 years the Raiders have struck out more times than Reggie Jackson. But when they finally hit that home run with Khalil Mack, they trade him away. Gruden dismantled the entire team. While the offense finally has some life, the Raiders defense has never recovered since letting Mack and Autry go.
If I sound bitter or resentful, it's partly because I'm not getting any younger. It's not acceptable to me that the Raiders have been the worst team in the NFL over the past 18-year period, with only one winning season during that span, and zero playoff wins.
Remember, somewhere in the middle of this dreadful period other NFL teams were saying that playing the Raiders was like having an extra bye week.
In his first three years, Gruden has presided over a 4-win season followed by two straight season-ending collapses. I'm tired of the excuses. Raiders should be better than this.
I hate to waste a good opportunity to borrow a phrase...
“If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, we'd all have a merry Christmas.”
Cheers!
Swinging for the fences? No NY, the "new" Raiders don't swing for the fences, they Reach! They reach for so-called football players. What track stars or Olympians or giants have the Raiders drafted since Al passed. They have reached or made some average choices; No, NY, the players the "new" Raiders look for are well scouted for their passion and high character not for size or speed. They refuse to go after bigger, faster defensive players. Mayock is an NFL guy and he is going to get guys that fit his idea of football players.
When have they boldly spent money on a pro bowl FA? Dude....the Raiders are doing what the owners want them to do. Be good guys who are like everybody else.
These are the Gruden/ Reggie not Al, Raiders lets get this fact. These are not the guys Al would've had making decisions the NFL put them here. I'm saying this is what the NFL wants not the way the Raiders wanted things.
Reaching is o.k. but when you decide that a few qualities will make a player good or that you can always make up for his negatives is going too far. Mayock had 5 1st rounders and looks like he had reached you just don't do that with those many picks. Don't put that on Al, when he got those draft picks from the Bucs he didn't reach.
BTW....Al had coaches who could get some of these guys to play. He reached for bigger, faster athletes don't get me wrong those other qualities are awesome but when you try to do it too much you get slow. Maybe Bellichik or Shula could do that but that is a huge job and we don't even know the staffs of Reggie/ Gruden.
But again, Raidernation listened when the NFL-sports media said- spending on expensive FAs', drafting for size and speed ruined Raiders. You need a game manager QB or star, the rest can be average to good players and have a cheap salary cap.
Ummmm......what about the staff?
Again, if Al had the coaches to help these players AND, the talent. How did they lose in a PARITY system a year after going to the SB for nine years?
Obsessions? He was obsessed with winning!
Extra bye week? you were playing a team that was being tampered with and the refs work with the NFL. Of course think I'm saying they were just giving Al the evil eye and curse words? The NFL used its' power to tamper and NFL people finally got inside and ruined the system of the team-and coaches couldn't do much to stop it but use the bad plays and bad spots for the personnel to cause problems winning games; with the refs ruining games on the outside, teams had a fun day knocking down-picking on and getting an easy win against the Raiders.
No NY, their mystique didn't FADE over decades. Otherwise they would've been called "pro sports winningest team". They faded in the mid 90s' and after the 2002 season. But this time the FADE looks very strange if not suspicious.
You have ('03-'11):
* At least 1 pro-bowl level RB (M. Bush)
* good QBs (Palmer, Campbell, Browkoski)
* outstanding pass rush (Sapp, Shaugnessey,
Burgess, D. Bryant, T. Scott, T. Kelly, K. Wimbley, Tolefson, Clemons)
* good DBs (Woodsen, Routt, C. Johnson, M. Giordano, Nnamdi)
* good O-line
* the best special teams in the NFL
* Coaches (N.Turner, T. Cable, H. Jackson)
and you can't win 1 division title or have one winning season in years? the NFL hated, and now, new owners are upset with you because you are messing with their money but there's no reason to see a conspiracy?
Dude....they were losing to teams with hardly any healthy players or few stars on them. To first year coaches above average rosters....Come on!
Angry man NY never mentions good things like Darren Waller
Swinging for the fences in a figurative sense, meaning the Raiders reaching and missing for players drafted well ahead of conventional scouting. For example, beginning after Al's death...
DJ Hayden drafted Rd 1 following a near-death chest injury that caused Hayden to miss valuable time.
Menelik Watson in Rd 2 the same year. Watson had very little college experience and never lasted in the NFL much past the Raiders, if at all. He spent his short career injured.
Mario Edwards was another reach in Rd 2.
And Jihad Ward in Rd 2. Did this guy even play football before being drafted by the Raiders? The Raiders were fixated on drafting inexperienced project players in Rd 2 for many years.
Obi Melifonwu, another Rd 2 reach, spent most of his Raiders career injured.
Gareon Conley seemed like a decent player but the Raiders never developed him.
In Gruden's first year he reached for PJ Hall in 2nd round, then drafted Brandon Parker in the 3rd. For some reason, Raiders are still clinging to Parker.
No matter what you think of Ferrell, he was a reach with the #4 pick of the 2019 draft. Raiders past on a lot of better talent, and I'm sure there's a consensus that Crosby, drafted in the 4th round, is better.
Both Ruggs and Arnette were drafted ahead of conventional scouting. Ruggs was the first WR drafted and probably isn't even in the top 10 rookie WRs for 2020. And by the end of the season, Arnette lost his starting job to Lawson, a career backup.
I'm NOT saying either Ruggs or Arnette is a bust, just that the Raiders have a proclivity to try and outsmart the rest of the NFL by drafting unconventionally.
Just this year, Raiders completely wasted a high 3rd Rd pick on Lynn Bowden Jr., only to release him before the season.
The Bowden pick is a real headscratcher. Again, there were valuable players still on the board early in the 3rd Rd. IMO, the Raiders don't (certainly shouldn't) have the luxury of taking fliers on project players.
If you look at the Raiders draft history post-AL, there's not a lot to brag about. And arguably the best player drafted by the Raiders in decades was one they traded away.
IMO, this stuff has greatly contributed to the Raiders failures.
whine whine whine my name is NY. I better not mention Renfrow, Crosby, Mullen or Jacobs.
LOl... like having good players is all it takes.
Every year it's the same folks telling us it's all part of the plan. The Raiders are one step away from greatness. Except that never happens. So far, Gruden is no better than any of his predecessors. He still has to get over the hump of a winning season. It's ironic that Dennis Allen just presided over one of the best defenses in the NFL, but he sucked as a Raiders coach.
I'm starting to believe my friend above who says the NFL is to blame for the Raiders hardships.
No team could be this bad for this long on their own. They definitely had help.
it's a great day in America that piece of shit Trump is gone. Now on to a Raiders superbowl
Sandy
40 years ago the Raiders were getting ready to play the Eagles in the Super Bowl as the 1st Wildcard teams to ever play in a Super Bowl.
1/25/'80
For the 2nd year in a row, there will not be a Scouting Combine; but Collegiate workout days for those entering the draft. This tells me that the smaller colleges and their players will be overlooked again; unless those players were invited to the Sr Bowl (i.e.-Elerson Smith). I think this is unfortunate, because the Scouting Combine is an event where everyone can gather and have an equal opportunity to show their skills, and be assessed by scouts on a level plain.
I think they should have a combine with just the players, and give NFL scouts access to live-video streams of athletes they want to see. If they can play a full season with minimal COVID cases, then they can certainly do ONE Scouting Combine with safe protocols in place. This is the kind of decision that makes me feel like Goodell is the most incompetent Commissioner. I feel bad for the small school players like Elerson Smith and Dustin Crum. Big talent that may be overlooked and never given a serious chance.
I sometimes hated it when the Raiders applied Combine stats to their draft decision-making. Track speed and football speed are different.
Case and point, the biggest criticism of Ruggs this season was that he wasn't able to gain separation. A guy that runs 4.27 can't separate. I get that you can't teach speed but you also can't always coach up players with speed.
CeeDee Lamb, whom the Raiders could have drafted, had 74 catches for almost 1,000 yards and 5 TDs this season. He did that on a team that lost its starting QB.
another day and NY is shitting on another player, hey man how about you move on to Rolando McClain or DHB, such a hater you are
Lol. Another day and Jones is afraid to actually voice an opinion. Much easier to troll a blog anonymously and bash someone for having independent thought. Dare to have an opinion that conflicts with Jones and you will feel his wrath.
Please tell us how the Raiders rebuild is going exactly according to your plan. Don't forget firing your DC at the end of the season. That's all part of the Jones master plan.
Saying Ruggs under-performed Lamb isn't shitting on a player, nor is it an opinion. It's fact.
Ruggs had 26 catches compared to Lamb's 74. Even if he doubles that output next year, it won't be #1 WR production.
Am I missing something, i.e., besides what's in your broken crystal ball? You seem to miss the whole point of having a conversation. Do you want us to hand out participation trophies?
You want folks to come here and talk about how great the Raiders are... after the last 18 years we've watched? The time for celebration will be when the Raiders reach those simple milestones, like a winning season, or making it to a playoff game, a playoff win, a conference championship game, getting back to the Super Bowl, winning a SB.
Raiders have none of that. Where have you been, Jones?
NY said, "I sometimes hated it when the Raiders applied Combine stats to their draft decision-making. Track speed and football speed are different."
I hear ya , NY, and agree with this too. I think the purpose of the Combine is not so much looking for these "stats", but looking at the ability that these exercises can bring. I think the things they have them do help scouts see their potential greatness, and the weaknesses they must overcome. WR Speed alone does not equate to separation. Precise Route running alone does not equate to separation (ask Renfrow). At the same time, both are factors that play into separation. In how the game is played today, young WR's need a veteran's help to pass along knowledge how to create space and separation. The problem I see with the Raiders today is they do not have the vet WR that will help teach these younger WRs separation. Which is why I am hoping they use Free Agency to bring in TY Hilton, Nelson Algholor (though I hear he is wanting $11 million and upward), or Allen Robinson. The best value for this I think is TY Hilton.
I guess individual workouts will get the same information, it will just take longer because the Combine allows them to all do the same exercises at one place. But the Combine is the biggest platform for those from smaller schools to shine and get recognition. The Combine gives those from smaller schools the ability to go from the 3-4 rounds, to the first, and receive a contract that reflects their talent.
So yes, sometimes what is produced there doesn't always equate to greatness, but it is the strongest way to evaluate a lot of players at one place, and at one time.
NY, Nate!
* I thought all you needed was:
A game manager QB.
Average, above to good with 1-2 stars on the team(expensive players).
A game manager HC.
Passionate, high character players.
I thought you used the Steelers' good scouting, the Patriots preparing, cheapness and discipline. Belichick, Ariens and Tomlin were HCs' you tried to copy.
You can also bring a HC or staff with a O or D system that can beat other teams.
You don't really need big, fast guys. They can't always beat these well coached, or loaded with high character and discipline or new unknown offenses and defensive systems.
No, thats' college football, old time systems, athlete loving teams thats....Al Davis football! And don't even talk about power offenses and 4-3 defenses or press coverage.
Reply:
Big, fast, athletes Thats' college football, thats'....K.C.! Yep! big, fast guys...athletes they even had the nerve to give S. Routt a chance. From the RBs' to the QB this team is about size and speed.
They also have problem players and expensive FAs'.
Why is K.C. winning? They are supposed to be a wildcard or a losing team.
Wow!....whats going on? This team goes to the combines and drafts for speed and they also have had some bad players.
I thought teams like that can't beat the smarter, more disciplined, well coached, better teams like the Pats, Packers, Steelers, Seahawks and now, the Bucs.
This team well, they kinda look like the '03-'11 Raiders and for awhile had a very good D for a few years but now have a good D.
* Think this is silly?
If size and speed ruined the Raiders why is KC winning with it. If bad players ruin a team don't you think KC should be a wildcard or not making the playoffs so much?
If Al was GM that long, the Raiders just came off from a SB and the team was one of the best in the NFL. Don't you think that maybe his system isn't so bad and there are other reasons for that slump?
Ravens ran a power offense when Flaco was there and went to a SB.
KC drafts for size and speed and signs expensive FAs.
Pittsburg has used that 3-4 defense for almost 30 years and still drafts for LBs' yet they are still winning.
The new NFL wants cheap to be the thing. The Billionaire owners don't want to pay big salaries and PARITY can help them run a system that won't be as expensive.
If all you need are average players you don't need as many super stars and don't have to pay average guys as much.
Gene Upshaw, some players and Al were a problem. They already hated Al and when he stood up for Mr. Upshaw that pissed them off.
The Raiders weren't an average or good team that sneaked into the playoffs they had three division Championships then in '03 started losing. And have been in an 18 year slump.
KC has the same kind of team. The Raiders players and coaches were just as good as KCs. And they didn't need Mahomes with all the talent they had. KC has had problem players yet, they are winning.
Maybe it wasn't Gannon, losing Gruden or Al's meddling, maybe it was your NFL and the other owners.
I don't think there's much argument that Patrick Mahomes is a rare talent. Perhaps more importantly, Andy Reid is an elite HC. 22 years as HC in the NFL and Reid has a .629 winning percentage. That's off the charts and among the best all-time. He's .711 in his last eight years coaching the Chiefs, with a winning record in every season. That includes taking a 2-12 Chiefs team and going 11-5 in his first season.
Maybe the formula to great success is a great HC.
Raiders may have the tools for success but they obviously have to be better than they've been. It's been a slow and painful process to watch.
Sure, the NFL hasn't done them m-any favors, but the league and its CBA have some protections, e.g., draft positioning, salary cap, etc., to level the playing field for small market teams and help bad teams reposition for success.
These tools don't always work to perfection but no team has defied the odds more than the Raiders. Arguably, no team has squandered more draft capital than the Raiders, starting with the decision to draft JaMarcus Russell over Calvin Johnson. To his credit, Gruden had that one right.
Nate,
Raiders are facing real challenge at WR. Their designated #1 (Ruggs) and #2 (Edwards replacing Williams on IR) combined for 37 receptions in 2020. That's not a good season for a #3.
The Raiders most productive WR, Agholor, is ranked among the top free agents on the market next season. No way the Raiders offer enough to keep him, and maybe they shouldn't based on the high cost. They can keep Williams (coming off two years on IR) but he's way overpaid.
So after all the trades, draft picks and free agent spending, if the Raiders can't develop their young WRs, they may be back to square one at the WR position.
IMO, Raiders should make Agholor a generous but reasonable offer to stay and remain Carr's favorite WR target, before he hits the market.
NY,
I'm talking about Al's era, not Reggie's.
I'm saying the NFL
Russell? Yea, that was a big one! a huge whiff. But as for the Johnson we didn't need Johnson we HAD good receivers (R. Moss) and still couldn't win. What do you thing Johnson was going to do? Maybe drafting anyone but Russell would've been better but Al already had good WRs.
Again, the NFL-sport media SAID you JUST need a game manage HC. Meaning the Reids, Tomlins and Bellichicks (Als', Nolls and J. Johnson's)are awesome BUT a team can win with a game manager HC.
Now, again, if the Raiders, already a SB team HAD the talent a GM who was a legend and could help a game manager coach then how do you go on a 9 year slump?
As for Reid that's great but Al didn't exactly hire Kiffen was a huge pick it just didn't work out, Turner was one of the best OCs' in football and Al saw it. He was a winner in San Diego.
Jackson was a great pick but he had to deal with the NFL, if he was mad with power what was Reggie mad with?
And Cable was a good HC just learning. Jackson was just more what Al was looking for. Jackson was Cable's OC and Raiders were one of best Os' in NFL and weren't too bad when he was HC.
These guys were more than qualified to coach the Raiders and make the playoffs.
Strangest thing I've ever seen, Al can draft well, hire coaches better than anybody (but having to hire a lot of HCs' might be a sign of problems).
Remember, he hired Sean Peyton and for some strange reason Peyton suddenly quit the job. I said QUIT, Peyton agreed to coach the Raiders. Wow, was it Al and dysfunction that made him change his mind? Did he get an offer from a winning team? He would miss a chance to learn from Al to coach the Saints?
* Some really strange things ('03-'11).
The Raiders couldn't win with good coaches and players and I think their guys were a little better than game manager HCs'.
Peyton suddenly changing his mind.
Moss not being able to help.
Suddenly losing right after a SB trip and with a roster full of pro-bowlers.
Somebody (or They) telling FAs' and coaches not to work for Al. Who were THEY?
Strange things going in the locker room that never happened before. (Maybe somebody was sent into the Raiders to cause problems.)
Yea...I don't want to make wild accusations or be a conspiracy guy but dude.....this stuff is so strange.
A team that won and has the HC and talent to win can't win. The Raiders were more than a match for Reid's KC because you saw the talent they had but unlike KC. The NFL wanted the Raiders to cooperate with their money making scheme and Al refused.
Anon said:
"* I thought all you needed was:
A game manager QB.
Average, above to good with 1-2 stars on the team(expensive players).
A game manager HC.
Passionate, high character players."
Where have I ever said any of these things? We have an excellent game manager QB right now. Not sure about the HC. We have a few high character players with Jacobs, Carr, Hudson, and Carr; but are missing those on defense. We have a few stars on the team, but are missing a captain on defense. Raiders are not far away from a championship caliber team, I am worried that Gruden doesn't want it because he has not addressed it's glaring weakness in defense and the running game in the 2nd half of the season. You have to have football acumen, your players have to be coachable, and your HC has to play to the players' strengths. We have players on defense who are not coachable, and we have a HC who does not play to the players' strengths. It doesn't matter what level you play at, this is Football 101. Your rant has nothing to do with anything I have said about where the Raiders are and what they need.
NY, the WR option is due to the youth of that position. Crabtree helped Cooper develop as a WR, and Carr trusted both. Agholor has done the same this year, and the Raiders would do well to get a #1 WR in free agency for reasonable money like TY Hilton or AJ Green. Those 2 will help these young guys learn techniques that will create separation, the Raiders #1 issue at WR; especially in the Red Zone. Carr's problem in this area is much like the coaching carousel, no consistency.
Not a lot of holes on offense, big glaring holes on defense that the Raiders have to address to compete. I am going to wait to see how Gus Bradley does with the defense, especially with some new faces at DB coach and LB coach. I'm still not sold that he was the best option for the Raiders. We will see. In the mean time, JUST WIN, BABY!!
Nate, I don't think anon is pointing a finger but speaking more metaphorically. Love the passion and historical knowledge. It's refreshing to read. Actually, reading his takes makes me yearn for the days of Al Davis (that and the Raiders failures since). Although, Al did jump the shark a bit toward the end. When Davis hire Kiffin, he had been pursuing Kiffin's counterpart OC at USC but that failed. Kiffin was option B (or C). We all remember the overhead projector firing a couple years later.
I need to make a correction. It was Lane Kiffin who wanted to draft Calvin Johnson over JaMarcus Russell. This was well after Gruden's time in Oakland. Damn! It'a all a blur. Hard to remember one year after another.
Gruden did some good work in Oakland in his first tour, but that was closely managed by Al Davis. It's yet to be determined if Gruden has the chops without Al. He fizzled hard in Tampa after Dungy's team won the SB.
Nate, as for defense, I'd go back to something I mentioned before... LB Will Compton stated in an interview that Guenther did not coach up his players. He just put the scheme out there. That, IMO, was the glaring weakness on D. Raiders have a young team and need a developmental coach. Guenther is perhaps more of a veterans coach... just show up ready to play.
AJ Green is totally finished, Hilton over Aghlor no thanks.
Wooooo.....as in woooo your horses!! Raidernation threw Coach Delrio UNDER THE BUS when they heard MD might hire MD!.
I'm sorry I was criticizing that idea that the NFL had. Its' an awesome idea and has worked for a few Championship teams.
Above average to good players with a few star or super stars were how some Champions were built but most of these teams had some outstanding coaches (Bellichick, Shula, Ariens and Dan Reeves). But when guys like Al come with the idea that SPEED, SIZE and ATHLETICISM can win and does it gets attacked when it stops.
Gruden knows what Al was trying to do and because of the NFL's meddling he has to work with him. They are drafting like other teams instead of going after speed, size and athleticism.
The Raiders can't keep up with KC. KC is bigger and faster than the Raiders.
Yet, according to media and I understand KC is also well coached but so was the Raiders unless you think Hue, Cable and N. Turner couldn't win with the talent Al got for them.....the Raiders are supposed to be at least winning sometimes because they are now like a "Model Franchise" with low salary caps, new stadium and high character players.
Gruden needs to go after bigger, faster and more athletic college players and see if he can find that Al Davis charm in making them into stars.
Gruden is under pressure NOT to do things like Al! We aren't seeing the fun and excitement of Raiders football with match up issues caused by bigger and faster players.
BTW....Al had average and good players with high character and the media never really said much about them.
Gruden needs to find those bigger, faster athletes and add some SPEED to that team and stop listening to the NFL. He needs SPEED at RB and DB, athleticism on D line quickness at MLB and SPEED DE and OLB.
Sorry,
Excuse me, my other post got mistake talking about when Delrio was still coach and then was fired. How Raidernation just was so excited about Gruden being hired.
This is about Raidernation and they way the treated Delrio.
When they (Raidernation) heard MD might hire Gruden!!! They coach Jack Del Rio under the bus!
Anon, I was not happy about Gruden when the news was breaking. I may have been the only Raider fan to hate the move, and you can go back and look at the posts I made when this happened too.
I'm hating this Super Bowl, this has to be the worst ever. For the 2nd year in a row, I will not be watching it. These last 2 Super Bowls have reflected the last 2 elections in our country: "Which loser do you want to win?" NONE OF THE ABOVE!!!
As far as our off-season, we have to address our cap-space problem, which shouldn't be difficult. I see the Raiders making some deep cuts. Trent Brown, Richie Incognito, Lamarcus Joyner, Tyrell Williams, Marcus Mariota, and Jalen Richard With just these cuts, the Raiders would save $54.3 million in cap space while only having $2.5 million in dead money (from cutting Joyner).
Looking at Free Agency, I think we need to target WR, DT, and DBs. I think we need a true #1 veteran WR to help teach our current younger WR's how to separate from defenders. I truly think this was the reason that Gruden traded for Antonio Clown, so that he could help with the young WRs; and that blew up in his face. In my opinion, I think the Raiders most benefit from TY Hilton. He still has juice left, and can still separate and be a threat.
As far as D, Leonard Williams is by far on the top of everyone's chart, and should be. I also like Shelby Harris, DaQuan Jones, Ndamukong Suh is still nasty as ever, and Justin Ellis. Raiders need a DT that can pressure the QB. With this position being slim in the draft, the Raiders have to spend big and sign a free agent here to fill this void.
At this point, I don't know if we need to focus on CB or Safety, or both. There is a lot of noise from some in the Nation on Twitter to bring in Richard Sherman. I agree with this, but only if he agrees to move to Safety (like C-Wood) because he has definitely lost a step and routinely was burned with speedy WR's.
I think McKensie Alexander (Bengals) and Shaq Griffin (Seahags) would be great pick ups at CB in Free Agency. Like the WR position, we have a lot of young talent at CB that lack a veteran leader to help with assignments and techniques in pass defense and putting themselves in a position for an INT. Getting someone like Richard Sherman or Patrick Peterson to play Safety would give the defense a Field General and Captain.
If we can't get Sherman to move to Safety, we can always pursue Kareem Jackson (Doncos), or Malik Hooker (Colts).
Again, as far as the draft goes we can pursue some great young talent at other areas. I think OT, OG, RB, QB (a young back-up to DC who will take the reins in at least 3 years), DE, and LB should be targeted in the draft.
I have given you the names of Elerson Smith (DE, Northern Iowa) and Dustin Crum (QB, Kent St) as my hidden gems in this year's draft; and I really think the Raiders should target these two. Here are some other players I am targeting and scouting through the draft:
Javonte Williams (RB, North Carolina)
Rhamondre Stevenson (RB, Oklahoma)
Nate McCrary (RB, Saginaw Valley)
JaQuan Hardy (RB, Tiffin)
Dillon Radunz (RT, North Dakota St)
Spencer Brown (RT, Northern Iowa)
Abraham Lucas (RT, Washington St)
Rashawn Slater (T/G/C, Northwestern)
Sam Cosmi (RT, Texas)
David Moore (G, Grambling)
Zion Johnson (G, Boston College)
Quinn Meinerz (G, Wisconsin-Whitewater)
Micah Parsons (OLB, Penn St)
Zaven Collins (OLB, Tulsa)
Joseph Ossai (OLB, Texas)
Deangelo Malone (OLB, Western Kentucky)
Chazz Surratt (ILB, North Carolina)
Paddy Fisher (ILB, Northwestern)
Riley Cole (ILB, South Alabama)
Just Win, BABY!
Unfortunately Del Rio wore out his welcome with the players, who more or less quit on him. Plus, he's a defensive coach and his defense sucked.
But I don't think the Raiders are drafting like other teams. As I said earlier, they are reaching too high in the draft for speed (Ruggs), average talent (Ferrell and Damon) and for project players (Bowden, Jr).
I don't believe the Raiders have the luxury of selecting these type players.
Had the Raiders drafted Josh Allen (Edge) and CeeDee Lamb (WR) over Ferrell and Ruggs, they'd be way ahead of where they are now. Bowden was gone before a single snap, so just having that top of the 3rd round pick back would be huge.
These decisions are not being made by the NFL. They fall squarely at Raiders Central.
Hey!,
1/25 is the 40th anniversary of the Raiders super bowl game against the Eagles.
So, put on your old Raiders' jerseys and put in those old SB videos that old things that play them and talk with family, friends or call people about the Raiders' SB.
https://www.youtube.com › watch?v=xvjstw2kKpw
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › 1980_Oakland_Raiders_season
https://www.youtube.com › watch?v=T7DAgkVzEb
Wow! 1980:
Empire Strikes Back
Superman II
working 9 to 5
The Rose
Fun:
night clubs, Pop(Disco) Techs
Shopping Malls
Packman? was Packman out in 1980?
the park, basketball and tennis courts, jogging, bike riding, dancing,
getting a Jeri Curl, Mohawk or other style
Atari Game System(s)
T.V. 1980:
Dallas- who shot JR?
Dynasty
Cheers
Happy Days ,Fantasy Island
Mash, The Incredible Hulk
* Other sports in 1980:
rumors of new football league(the USFL).
Lakers, 76ers and Celtics playoffs.
sports stars(college-pro): Fernando Venusuela, Hershall Walker, Larry Bird, Dr. J, 'Magic' Johnson, K. Abdul Jabbar, Pete Rose, Ricky Henderson, Don Mattingly, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Joe Montana, Lenette Woodard, Chis Everett, Jack Nicholas.
NFL Draft 1980: Billy Sims(Lions), Charles White(Browns), Matt Millen(2nd rnd,Raiders),
Who were the best teams in the NFL in '80?
Steelers
Oilers
Chargers
Browns
Cowboys
Rams
Eagles
Falcons
Raiders Eagles
tie QB tie
RB X
X FB
X TE
tie WR tie
X OL
tie DL tie
X LB
X DB
X ST
First wildcard team to go to a Super Bowl!
First wildcard team to win a Super Bowl!
R. Kinlaw, 2nd year man, was a huge steal and did well.
Can you believe there was a 6'8" WR in the SB? Eagles' Harold Charmichael.
Eagles beat Raiders in pre-season game that year.
R. Martin had 3 ints. in the SB.
K. King wasn't a pro bowler like Eagles' RB Wilbet Montgomery but he had 80 yard TD catch in SB.
J. Plunkett had one of the best comebacks in NFL history. He didn't play like a first overall pick but was coming close. He wasn't even supposed to start but came in a game after QB D. Pastorini got injured. He was game MVP in the SB.
Eagles' WR Charlie Smith once played for the Raiders.
Herman Edwards was one of the Eagles' CBs.
1/25/'81 New Orleans Super Dome
Eagles were favorites to win.
HOFers:
Eagles: DE Claude Humprey.
Raiders: A. Shell, G. Upshaw, Al Davis, R. Guy, T. Hendricks.
Raiders!!!!
Good game Eagles coach Vermile and coach Flores and Al that was a great game!!!
We may have only a few good memories of a Raiders' SB game but we can have fun looking it up in books, magazines or the web and talk about it to other fans or friends.
Have fun watching the SB if you watch it.
Raiders!!!! Still fans Still with you!! Just Win Again!!
Negative NY, Ferrell is superior to Allen check pff rankings. Give Ruggs another year before measuring him. way ahead if they had drafted differently you are fool
I don't have PFF. If you do, please copy and post the info. I'm open to changing my opinion.
Allen had 10.5 his rookie season. That's the edge presence the Raiders needed. Ferrell doesn't play the edge well enough, and that's partly why the Raiders played him in the interior D line so much. Ferrell is clearly not a bust but he's still way behind his draft slot. That makes a difference when you're rebuilding a team, especially, when it's not going well.
I have no choice but to give Ruggs another year. That's the plan no matter what I say or think. Ruggs was spectacular at times but his production and ability (so far) to separate is not worth the few spectacular plays he will make every year. He will need to be better.
It's a work in progress. I get that but I don't think I'm alone in thinking my patience is growing thin. Accountability is a big part of managing, coaching and playing. I just want the Raiders to be great, again!
Ferrell was drafted high because Mayock thought his football program and his high character and passion would turn into NFL winners.
This isn't something the Pats, Steelers or Ravens wouldn't have done but down in the late teens and 20's.
As for Ruggs it was the program again, despite drafting DHB the Al Raiders wouldn't draft Ruggs that high. They usually drafted their track stars in rounds 2-5 and they usually helped them win.
Maybe Gruden should help the scouts and Mayock with some history. Many of the HOF Raiders did come from big programs but not always the top ones. Villanova, Rutgers, Colorado, Texas U. put some very good players in silver and black.
But your new Raiders are on passionate and high character program. Ruggs wasn't an Al like pick because there are usually other track stars in later rounds to draft, DHB had other things like size and he could block. Ruggs was another player from a big program and the Raiders decided to bring in an old Raiders type and make him into a star. But Al probably wouldn't pick a track star that high. Sports media made Al a speed blind GM who ruined Raiders with bad drafts.
Other than DHB he didn't pick a receiver that high because of his speed. In higher rounds he drafted guys for size, catching and route running to, maybe, become stars.
It's very good to draft for passion and character but there are young guys who can bring excitement and teams with their talent(s).
That's what KC is doing(Dallas has it too but just don't win), speed, size and athletes with good players and coaches. Just like Al was doing and had even during the slump.
KC isn't following other teams, they have a system and its' about winning, not copying.
I still have hope for Ferrell. He was a beast when he played this season, with the exception of the Jets game where the next day he was placed on COVID protocols; and after that, he had a difficult time adjusting.
Coming off COVID, myself, over Christmas and New Years; I am still having to fight fatigue every day a month later. About 3 or 4pm, I hit a fatigue wall, unless I mow the lawn or do some physical activity with my son (basketball, pitching to him in a batting cage, etc). So I can only imagine what it is like for an NFL player too. Even though I am not a pro-level sports guy, nor am I in shape like one; I am in shape and take care of my body and health. I know it affects people differently too. I have friends who lost their smell and taste and has taken 10-12 weeks to regain, while not having affects of fatigue. I lost my smell, and gained it back immediately, but am fighting fatigue, now 4 weeks after it has passed. I think COVID affects you differently based on your blood type; something I think medical experts should look at.
I still have hope for Ruggs too. I think he would do better if Gruden gave him more slant routes, and used his speed similar to how the Chiefs use Tyreek Hill, and how he used to use Jerry Rice. It was interesting to hear Mayock's take on him a few days ago. He said that he needs to work out more, put on a few pounds, and work on his route running and techniques to get separation. This is something a veteran WR could help him with, and the reason the Raiders need a #1 veteran WR like TY Hilton or AJ Green.
Mayock also said that there is not one standout player on defense who can act as the leader/captain of the defense. He says Crosby and Ferrell can be those kind of players, but they are still young and need to develop their game. This is another thing I have said here on this site, repeatedly (pats myself on the back as I type this, hahaha). We need a captain on the field. Rumor has it that the Texans are looking to rebuild, which is why Deshaun Watson is demanding a trade. That has squelched the news that they are also looking to trade JJ Watt to get out of his contract. They may end up cutting him outright. The Raiders should sign him; and go after a DT in Free Agency. We need veteran leadership on both sides of the ball that will help further impact the young players. Mack had C-Wood and Bruce Irvin; DC had Crabtree and Donald Penn. DC still has Rodney Hudson, and had Algholor; but Algholor is not an impact vet. Gruden gambled with Antonio Brown and lost; but has never had a leader/captain for the defense. I am hoping he can talk Richard Sherman into joining the team and move to Safety, much like C-Wood did late in his career. That would be epic, and Sherman loves Gus Bradley. It's the reason why he left the Seahawks. But we need a captain of the DBs, and a captain of the D-Line.
Gonna be interesting! Just Win, BABY!
Nate, sucks that you still have lingering effects but so glad to hear you are recovering.
I have mixed feelings about spending draft capital and money on acquiring Watts. That seems counterproductive to trading away Mack. We already had that level player in house.
Algholor was one the Raiders most notable impact player this year. He made some spectacular catches and long TDs. But he's gone! No way the Raiders pay him his free agent rate.
Ruggs has speed but he can't get open like Renfrow. He's never going to be Tim Brown, and that's what the Raiders should aspire to. That's why CeeDee Lamb would have been a better option. Lamb was a producer in college and he was a Day 1 legit starter in the NFL.
Raiders are in a hole at WR. They probably need to draft and sign a FA. It's a position of significant need.
That sucks after all the draft capital and money already spent!
Zinc
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
tea
lemons
soup
soda (clear or white sodas like Sprite)
garlic
hot chocolate
natural fruit juice
hot lemon aide
orange juice
get natural aromatherapy products
*use Lysol
other disinfectant sprays inside cans
*get masks with static, copper and other things that keep viruses out of a person's face.
clean inside trash cans after emptying them.
clean bathrooms and kitchens more than most rooms.
clean your t.v. remote control
wash your dry towels used to dry hands after washing more than most towels.
wipe down door knobs, fridge handles, light switches, faucet handles.
vacuum your couch.
Vapers really need to be careful
*open windows when not too cold.
*Humidifier can help against viruses. Go to the store and find out the best ones to buy.
*use hand sanitizer after picking up mail and house delivered news paper.
*Any Bronchitis, Asthma, Emph, lung Cancer
needs to be very careful and take time to make sure:
you have your medicines
keep you home air fresh by opening window, spray your cans with disinfectant spray.
don't stay out in the outside air too long.
drink fluids.
clean and vacuum your bed room sand spray it with disinfectant spray.
clean your bed room furniture and window sills. And dust them too.
spray your house with disinfectant spray.
read about the flu and ask for information about what to buy to help against it.
Zinc guy is so random.
Relax, stay healthy and live life!
Direct quote from Mike Mayock.
“I was disappointed in the productivity of our rookies, I’ll be the first person to admit that,”
Hold the phone! If that's the official position of the Raiders General Manager...
Uh, subtract 10 points on the productivity scale. He's being kind.
Mayock is obsessed with Alabama, Ohio State and Clemson. Maybe they need to try other schools because they are drafting like NFL draft fans instead of pro staff.
Their best pass rusher came from a small school.
NFL DRAFT Raiders "era" leaders Al('03-'11) Reggie/ Gruden('12=-17):
QB Reggie/ Gruden (D. Carr)
HB Al (M. Bush, J. Fargas, DMAC, T. Jones)
FB Reggie/ Gruden (J. Olawale, E. Ingold)
WR Al (J. Ford, L. Murphy, D. Moore,
TE Al (Z. Miller)
OT Al (J. Vehldeer)
OG Reggie/ Gruden (G. Jackson)
C tie Reggie/ Gruden (T. Bergstrom), Al (S. Wisnewski)
K
DE Reggie/ Gruden (K. Mack, M. Crosby)
DT Al (L. Houston,
EDGE Al (T. Scott,
OLB Al (T. Howard)
MLB Al (R. McClain)
CB Al (Nnamdi, S. Routt)
FS Al (M. Huff,
SS Al (T. Branch)
P
K
UDFAs': Al, Reggie/ Gruden- UDFA players'.
QB
RB Reggie/ Gruden (J. Richard)
FB Al (M. Reece)
TE Reggie/ Gruden (D. Carrier,
WR Reggie/ Gruden (M. Streater,
OL
K Reggie/
DL Al (T. Kelly, D. Bryant, D. Tollefson,
LB Al (R. Brown,
DB Al (
P Reggie/ Gruden (A.J. Cole)
NY anti masker guy for sure
2019 draft class. Ferrell and Abram still have a long way to go.
https://raiderswire.usatoday.com/2021/01/27/grading-the-raiders-2019-draft-class-after-two-seasons/
This makes it even less likely that Agholor comes back. Apparently, he told the team they suck after the Dolphins game. Players gave up and there's no accountability in the locker room. Sure, that's just hearsay but we all saw that game. It was the most ridiculous loss I can remember. So where is the accountability? That's the $64k question.
Aside from Derek Carr, name a leader on this team? Kyle Wilbur got cut from the roster at the beginning of the season, Raiders re-signed him and he becomes a team captain. How's that possible? The guy was so fringe he got cut, then becomes a captain.
https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2021/01/28/report-raiders-receiver-nelson-agholor-told-teammates-they-sucked-after-loss-to-dolphins/
NFL PARIRY!!!!
Raiders/ had outstanding players('03-'11) but suddenly started losing. Team not only was very good but was standing up for the players rights and tried to help the NFLPA help the players. Rumors that the NFL Owners may have tampered with the Raiders and that over those 9 years the NFL, sports media and Owners were one of the reason the team suddenly started losing or did some things to help make them lose.
Cowboys/ hasn't won a playoff game in years. but continues to have some of the best players in the NFL.
49ers/ once dominated the NFL in the 80s' and one of the best in the late 2000s'. But somehow mediocre teams in NFC West win division.
Washington/ once a winner or at least good team. Owner criticized for high salaries and team hasn't won in years.
Steelers/ can't criticize team that drafts very good for decades and builds very good teams but they seem to lose strangely winnable games at strange times.
Bills/ very good winner in the 90s'
Broncos/ once a very good team still has a good D.
Ravens/ keeps being one of best teams in NFL.
Panthers/ once a very good team.
*NFL Parity?:
One team has been to 9 SBs' between '01-present.
Only a few teams go to the playoffs almost every year(Pats, Steelers, Ravens, Seahawks, Saints and Packers).
NFC East has had a below .500 team win division twice.
A team is playing in a SB in its' home stadium for 1st time in NFL history.
One QB has won six super bowls between '01-'17.
Teams that are loaded with pro-bowlers and good-very good HCs' just can't seem to win, not even wild card spots(Al's Raiders '03-'11, Cowboys, Washington).
Some of the strangest rule changes in sports- PAT is now longer(?).
There have been some very biased refs and possibly tampering with teams.
Coaches and teams still, are being heavily criticized(by players and fans) for strange moves that lose games.
System of game manager QBs, Cheap spending and high character players, game manager HCs' and heavy watching of PED and problem players of o.k. but there used to be teams with loaded rosters(Manning's Colts, Al's Raiders, Cowboys and Steelers) that were winners.
Bad teams go to playoffs more than usual('99-present).
Revenue sharing, new stadiums, t.v. money and retail-food venders and selling company districts are more important than the fans.
Changing rules that make it hard to play defense so that offenses can have bigger stats.
*Wow, this is the new NFL? this is PARITY?
So, you think this is better than the 90s'?
Anon...just a small correction on your recollection of Raiders '81 super bowl win over Eagles.
Eagles beat Raiders in a regular season game. Final score was something like 10-7, a defensive battle played at Vet stadium. Eagles sacked Plunkett around 8 times in game. but of course, super bowl was a very different story.
Parity, IMO, isn't about sending teams to the SB, it's about keeping teams competitive. That's where the Raiders have failed miserably. The Raiders have one winning season in the last 18 years, worst in the NFL. Let that sink in for a minute.
Parity also is no cure for Tom Brady, or other top NFL QBs that find a way to get back to the playoffs years after year. It's no accident that Brady and Mahomes are playing in the SB.
Since the Raiders had the personnel to win then doesn't that mean they should've been able to go to the playoffs year after year?
No NY, that's were the NFL has failed miserably. The Raiders have had 9 losing seasons unless you feel Reggie was doing what Al would want him to do.
What great QB from '70-'99 ever came close to winning six SBs'?
Who? Joe, Troy Aikman, Terry Bradshaw?. They'll come on T.V. and pretend that this NFL is the same as theirs but the competition, speed and quality are far apart. Those guys and Al were winning in a much different NFL.
Were have you seen this PARITY? in the AFC East or North in the NFC East or South?
It IS about sending a favorite team(s) to the SB. If that's what will keep the ratings high and sell cable t.v., merchandise and tickets.
Suddenly, the formula for winning is so mediocre the Raiders couldn't be this bad.
Compared to most of these so called playoff teams even, this KC team the Raiders were just better made to win. They didn't need a super star QB a game manager QB SHOULD'VE been enough. How did the Ravens win with the offenses they had and the Raiders couldn't? Oh, its' because Gruden and Gannon left and DYSFUNCTION took over!
The evidence that something was wrong is far better than your explaination about this NFL, KC and the Bucs. There simply is no way to explain why the Raiders suddenly slumped much less how they didn't win at least a division title the last 9 years of Al's era.
AGAIN!!! Oakland Raiders('03-'11):
2 pro-bowl kickers
One of the best secondaries in the NFL or a good one.
At least one pro bowl level DL (Sapp, Clemons, Kelly, Seymore, Burgess, Coleman, Wimbley, Shaughnessy, D. Bryant, T. Scott)
Quality LBs'
At least one pro-bowl DB (R. Woodson, C. Johnson, Routt, S. Brown, C. Woodsen, Nnamdi)
Average-very good QBs' who all could've took Raiders to playoffs (Campbell, Brokowski, Collins, Palmer, Pryor, Brooks, A. Walter)
Outstanding RBs' (DMAC, M. Bush, J. Fargas, L. Jordan)
Good WRs (L. Murphy, J. Porter, J. Ford, C. Schillens, J. Jett)
staff (N. Turner, H. Jackson, T. Cable)
Dude....few if any had the personnel the Raiders had. And the Raiders lost to some pretty mediocre-average teams during that slump. The Broncos loss alone should tell you the NFL is shady.
Really? losing to Teebow who is a nice guy but the Raiders were playing and acting weird and acting slow and holding back their plays and using a game plan to help lose game.
this post lost me when the majority of players you mentioned were crap sorry Justin fargas Lamont Jordan we're not outstanding running backs every wide receiver you mentioned was a number 2 at Best or Absolute crap. Palmer the only good qb Collins and Campbell were average and the rest of the guys were backups or terrible
30 for 30-Al Davis vs NFL was pretty decent to let my son watch and get the history. It would have been better without the CGI characters of Davis and Rozelle. I don't think any one of them won. Rozelle prevented Al from having success with his franchise, and Al eventually took a toll on Rozelle's health.
At the same time, I couldn't blame Al for suing. Rozelle did not do this to any other team; but because Al had a much larger following in So Cal than his Lambs, he tried to railroad Davis and the Raiders to some success.
The thing I despised the most was the documentary tried to make it seem like the Stadium in Vegas is what caused both to win, and bring peace between the Raiders and the League. It brought up, however, things that need to be discussed and answered (Immaculate Reception ruling). Rozelle was, and will always be a thief and a cheat. But Al was never too far behind him either.
Those days go back to when the NFL was truly against the Raiders and their success (it was part of the Raiders mystique). Put it this way, ....long long before George Lucas had Darth Vader and The Force, we had Al Davis and the Raiders.
Unfortunately, we are at least one generation removed from the days of the Raiders being a successful franchise. Sure, tensions exist in the league but that's true in most business, particularly, when millions and even billions are at stake. The NFL has become a billionaire's business and greed plays a big role.
However, from a business perspective, the league would be stronger and more profitable if the Raiders, in their brand new shiny sin city home, could once again be a winning team. I would guess more money flows through Vegas than any city in the world.
So let's call it like it is. For all the morality that kept the NFL out of Vegas for 55 years, it was greed that ultimately landed them in Vegas. And keeping the Raiders down would be bad for business. Even dumb billionaires can figure that out.
The modern era Raiders control their own destiny. It boils down to ownership, management, coaching and personnel. The reason the Raiders lose is because other franchises are better at one or more of these critical elements.
For all their flaws, guys like Lane Kiffin, Hue Jackson, hell, even Dennis Allen knew the problem was, and perhaps still is, within the building.
Time for the Raiders to take ownership of their failures and field a winning team. Maybe they will reflect on that this weekend while they watch other teams in the Super Bowl.
Inasmuch as it's not possible for both teams to lose, stay safe and enjoy the game!
Cheers!
Congratulations to the great Tom Flores it's about time. Charles Woodson well deserved. A travesty that Drew Pearson makes it in a clip Branch doesn't.
Regards Sandy
To the other Anon,
Jordan was almost a pro-bowl RB with the Jets when he came to Oakland. Bellichick thought he, like many ex-Raiders, was pretty good.
Fargas was EXACTLY what sports media claimed Raiders didn't have. High-character, tough RB, who will block and do what it takes to win. A guy that didn't need speed but he had it.
Any game manager QB SHOULD'VE won with the talent Al built around him. Collins never had that kind of talent around him and Palmer never had a team with that history. Your Reggie era screwed him up. Campbell was good in Washington and Oakland he was above average and could play outstanding at times.
Every WR I mentioned were screwed by Reggie J. Ford makes Gruden and Reggie's guys look slow. He electrified when healthy. Murphy was the work horse and played well. I'm shocked that Reggie didn't tell his coaches don't screw D. Moore who came from Reggie's school. Moore was considered a true WR but was also explosive and he was drafted as a route runner out of TU.
You can come up with any reason for that slump and it won't stand up to plain NFL sense- PARITY lets mediocrity compete with outstanding teams. BUT-, teams that are ALREADY very good and have the coaches to win don't keep losing, especially for 9 years!
BTW...you can have your Pats, Steelers, Packers, Ravens and Seahawks. You seem to want the Raiders to be the NFL's team.
The NFL never really accepted the Raiders and if you want a team of NFL guys to make them into a model franchise think about this.
Anon, I think you want a Raiders team that had no talent and a out of touch program. Maybe you are more a Pats or K.C. guy and want to see Silver and Black run the NFL way. The Raiders won when they kept away from the NFL's way, they can put down on Al era but now it seems the NFL DID tamper with Al and these new Owners have more power and weren't going to allow Al to kick their asses like the old NFL. So, its' not too hard to believe they didn't tamper with Al's team.
They may have the NFL's support and be a model franchise but for the electricity, attitude, excitement, independence, loyalty leadership and commitment....Al's Raiders had all that.
Winning is almost everything but win or lose Al's teams had it....will your NFL Raiders find it?
28 Raiders in Hall of Fame!
drafted: F. Biletnikoff, M. Allen, H. Long, A. Shell, G. Upshaw, K. Stabler, R. Guy, T. Brown, C. Woodsen.
others: T. Hendricks, M. Haynes, G. Blanda, J. Rice, R. Lott, W. Brown, E. Dickerson, R. Seymore, J. Otto, R. Woodson, R. Mix, B. Brown.
No, its' not wrong that D. Pearson got in over our star WR Mr. Branch. Pearson was with a great team and had some outstanding years in Dallas.
Tom Flores coach of Oakland/ L.A. Raiders
Hall of Fame!!!
Charles Woodsen, Oakland Raiders' and Packers' CB.
Finally, the NFL didn't forget about Coach Flores.
Go team, keep working on the L.V. Raiders, HOF day for Raiders!!
Call it what it is?: A money scheme, Screwing fans, a scam. Corporate scams.
if hear about big Corporations you see power struggles, intimidation, harassment of employees, information trading, spying and other things. And you still believe the NFL doesn't do this?
You saw just a little of the things the old NFL did to your Raiders and you still believe its on the Raiders.
* Take ownership for their failures?: Which Raiders' era? Al-hiring Callighan and maybe drafting J. Russell other than those What?
Reggie-don't even ask, Gruden-making a sports talk guy a GM. Its' three different eras!
Yea, the NFL would be better if the Raiders were winning and they want it to be with new owners. With Al's era completely gone. Not with anything connected to Al.
PARITY!!! remember that? mediocrity can now compete with if not beat the top teams. So that's no excuse to lose for 18 years. Why 31 other teams can win sometimes with PARITY but one team can't is very suspicious. If the Raiders were loaded after '03 then should't they have a huge advantage over the other average teams in a PARITY system?
Move to L.V. wasn't about the Raiders, it was about MONEY, POWER and payback. Raidernation is awesome and I love you but instead of being conned think:
L.V. wasn't a place the NFL would send a team, they sent something they really dislike in a win-win move. Get Raiders a new stadium and they then could have events in L.V. or have a mediocre team and if they fail, Raidernation will still support team and NFL still will make money off Raiders.
Kiffen was a USC guy(Al's former team) and could've been special. Allen was Reggie's guy(I don't think Reggie hired him). Hue was outstanding as a OC and had the attitude to run a team-Al didn't make a mistake with him. What is it that Kraft-Bellichick, Tomlin-Rooneys or J. jones tell their coaches that Al didn't know far more about? Or what was it that Al coaches could teach him about football? If you still believe Al's 'meddling' caused a nine year slump then maybe 31 other team owners know more about football than Al did.
Keeping the Raiders down? They were trying to do it in the 80s'! Keeping the Raiders down would make the owners happy. Since NFL has its' favorite teams and stars the Raiders really aren't that important.
Both sides were doing things to bother the other...Al was trying to kick their asses and the NFL was trying to slow him down. In the 2000s' these wallstreet people just want to run things and not have any problems they showed Al power and harassment.
* You seem to have forgotten some of the things that the NFL was accused of doing and the new NFL may have tampered with dealing with Al:
kept John Elway from going to L.A.('83)
made sure Randy Moss went to the Pats no other offers from any other teams. AND that the Pats didn't give up anything in that trade('07).
may have old RB Corey Dillion(Bengals) to sign with the Pats and not sign with the Raiders.
told assistant coach Sean Peyton NOT to work for Al('03 or '04).
strangely, Al started losing in court. Lawsuits against City of L.A. and Tampa Bay Bucs. He did win against City of Oakland.
* strange and unbelievable stories about why Al's guys were being released:
"MD was getting payback for Al's mistreatment"- sports media
"they didn't want to be Raiders"-Reggie on why he released or didn't re-sign players.
"Al was jealous of HC winning so he purposely caused them to lose so he could fire them".- sports media
"MD succeeded were Al couldn't and helped work out the L.V. deal"- sports media
That Reggie hired Coach Allen and MD agreed with to hire Reggie.-sports media
I think the NFL picked Reggie and his staff. Maybe Reggie did hire Delrio but its' very strange MD knew anything about any NFL people outside of the Raiders.
So happy for Flores and C-Wood. For Flores it is a long time, and should have happened years ago. For C-Wood, well deserved first timer. Now Cliff Branch, Todd Christensen, and Lester Hayes should be in.
On to the Super Bowl. BOY OH BOY, AM I HAPPY THAT MAHOMES WAS BLOWN OUT!! At the same time, I am angry that Brady won #7. He is not in the position he is in now if it were not for the Tuck Rule, and that makes me bitter. Granted, he is a great QB. I will argue that Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw will always be ahead of them. I say that because if Brady had to play under their rules he wouldn't make it. Also, if Montana and Bradshaw had played under the current rules, I wonder how many Super Bowls they would have won. I just see them both taking hits from the Raiders D-line and Montana getting clobbered from Lawrence Taylor, Ed "Too Tall" Jones and others from the NFC West every season. I'm still amazed how they both survived year in and year out. I don't think Brady can take a hit like that.
Tampa's defense proved what the Raiders did, but they did it more effectively because their D-Line knows how to create pressure. The Raiders laid the ground work of covering Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce. That is Mahomes biggest targets, because they do not have a running game. Also, having a D-Lineman or LB spying Mahomes. The only reason they beat us the 2nd time was due to Abram being out of position. The factor that the Raiders did not have to keep the Chiefs from running up the score was consistent pressure on Mahomes. This is where the Bucs throttled the Chiefs last night.
The Bucs have some Free Agents on this defense that the Raiders could and should benefit from. Ndamukong Suh is the first one. He has been a stout DT his whole career, and he has the nasty attitude the Raiders need on the D-Line. I've wanted Suh since 2015 when he left Detroit and signed with Miami, the Rams, and now the Bucs. He was consistently in Mahomes face last night, and flushing him to the outside. If he comes to the Raiders, he would flush him to Mad Maxx or Ferrell.
The other Bucs free agent that could help the Raiders is OLB Lavonte David. Dude is an absolute ball hawk that shut down Kelce for the majority of the game last night. He had 6 Solo tackles last night, and was around the ball all night. He had 2 Pass Defenses, which does not account for the times he hit the WR or Kelce as the ball was arriving and it fell to the ground. Raiders need an OLB like that.
Couple this point to the Cris Collinsworth podcast. Chris has been doing his podcast with Richard Sherman as co-host. They both had Jon Gruden on this week, and Sherman flat out told Gruden he is available to talk. Sherman WANTS to be a RAIDER because of Gus Bradley. I would take Sherman and put him at Safety like C-Wood at the end of his career, and let him coach the young CB's too, and bring that vet leadership that is sorely needed to the young DB group. These 3 moves instantly creates a strong defense.
Other news that came out this week is the Raiders are rumored to be chasing TY Hilton at the WR spot. I so love this move. Trent Brown has removed all "Raiders" related images from his Twitter and IG pages which tells me he is being cut. Tyrell Williams will be cut, as will possibly Richie Icognito. Those 3 alone will create the cap space needed to sign these 4 players. We can replace Trent Brown with Dillon Radunz (OT, North Dakota St) or Spencer Brown (RT, Northern Iowa St). I am starting to realize the potential that the Raiders can make for themselves this offseason. I hope they pursue this. JUST WIN, BABY!
Plenty of great QBs over time, but Brady is hands down the most successful. The best? Who knows. I watched Dan Marino play a lot, and I would argue he was one of the best, but he only made it to one SB. Brady thrived in optimal conditions with Pats coaching and management, then stepped into a perfect storm with Bruce Arians in Tampa. They gave him talent on offense and a great defense. Arians is one of the best HCs all-time in terms of winning percentage. Look it up.
If Gruden wants to ever get to the level of Reid and Arians, he will need to be a lot better than he's been in his career. Arians won a SB in his second year in Tampa, taking over a previously lousy 5-11 team.
In terms of the NFL/Raiders discussion, it's one thing to kick a good team when they're up and enjoying success that not many teams could manage, but it's entirely different to kick a team when it's been down for an entire generation... especially, when the league needs that team to bounce back to some semblance of monetary prosperity for the betterment of the league.
Lamont Jordan? How does come into the discussion. He was decent in NY but became tiptoes Jordan in Oakland because he waited too long for his blockers to part the red sea and could never find the lanes. But that's how a lot of players enter the Raiders org. Good on other teams, not so much on the Raiders. Moss is another example. He left the Raiders and had a couple of the best seasons of his career.
Plain and simple, the Raiders just need to do better than they've done over the past 18 years. There are no more excuses to be had for not fielding a winning team. At some point, fans should start demanding Gruden pay his salary to charity.
Seriously guys, Montana, Marino better than Brady lol that is a joke. I am still mad about the tuck game but the man is the GOAT period. The greatest sports man of our generation and greatest NFL player of all time period and it is not close. 7 super bowl wins and 5 mvps. He has done it in three different decades, Tampa was 7-9 last year. The man is 43 for gods sake. Jordan, Lebron forget it. Hell I can't stand him or the Pats etc etc. but you can not deny his greatness. He truly commits to year round physical fitness and pursuit of greatness like no one else. Football IQ beyond compare.
Nate being a QB is way harder today than it was in the 70, 80s, 90s, 2000s (and give me a break Bradshaw was not even a top 10 qb all time) day and even harder than it was ten years ago with way much more information to process. The speed of the game is beyond compare when measured against the 70s through to even 2010. Guys give credit where credit is due the man has played the hardest position in professional sports for 21 years at a level that is incomprehensible. He went ten years without a championship and then won 4.
NY, Arians best winning % wtf are you talking about, he is #37 all time
https://www.pro-football-reference.com/coaches/
7 friggin rings two since he turned 40, find another guy in sports who has more there are none unless you want to go back to Yogi Berra or Bill Russell lol. Rings are the thing, you know Just win baby
Sandy
Please don't put words in my mouth. I never said Marino was better than Brady, only that he was among the best and only made it to one SB. It takes more than a great QB, but having a great QB doesn't suck.
In terms of winning percentage, Bruce Arians is immediately behind Sean Payton, Andy Reid, and John Harbaugh among active head coaches. I'd say that's in pretty good company!
Jon Gruden is a .500 HC. Within a few games, he has as many losses as he has wins in his career. That's not the mark of a great HC. That's barely the record of a decent HC.
NY, you said Arians was one of the best HC all time not active he is number 7 active with considerably less seasons than the guys ahead of him McVay aside. Come on man I know you won't admit you hate the Raiders even though you shit on them constantly just like you had to throw Gruden into your response. At least admit when you sight something factually wrong.
Sandy
One more thing bitter man Marino does not belong in the same sentence as Brady. On a statistical basis on a winning basis by any measure.
Whatever you were inferring about Marino who knows because the only thing you take a stand on is how much you are upset with the Raiders.
Point is Brady is a 43 year old man who led a team to a super bowl during a pandemic with no offseason in his first year there. A team that was not in the playoffs for 10 years.
Without putting words in your mouth lol you were watering down Brady's accomplishments which shows you know very little about football/sports or are being dishonest. Let us know which one.
For the record I can't stand Brady the Pats, the Bucs and all other teams except the Raiders. However, I am realistic and honest enough to give credit to what Brady has accomplished because it is historic and he is the best ever.
Sandy
Its' not a football man's league anymore but a corporate/ political driven league.
Most of the Owners are Billionaires, Groups or Corporations.
They were invited by the NFL execs to make the NFL more powerful mainly, to stop people from winning lawsuits, build new stadiums and bring in more billionaires and corporations.
This was in the late 90s'; but to make it work the NFL had to change because it STILL needed fans to work. You STILL couldn't stop the best teams(49ers, Cowboys, Bills) from winning all the time. So to make the fans happy and show the new Owners the could do their Wallstreet games in the NFL(be as cheap as possible) the NFL started its' PARITY system.
What does that mean? Level playing field? Ummm....maybe but it really was about:
keeping the game interesting by having mediocrity dominate the NFL. Bad teams will now make the playoffs. Good teams will start to their teams. The QB is the leader, nobody else. Salaries will be cheaper because there isn't a need for a lot of elite stars when any team can win any Sunday(?).
The new NFL had to do other things to make them happy:
control the NFLPA because Pres. Gene Upshaw was trying to keep NFL salaries high.
have ALL 32 teams cooperate with their game plan.
prevent the NFL from being sued.
have a new stadium in all 32 NFL cities.
make the NFL more of a tourism, well off fan base league than the old school fan league.
have opportunities for other businesses to work with the NFL. This is what those RETAIL/ ENTERTAINMENT/ FOOD SELLING districts around stadiums are for.
* The new NFL wanted:
They wanted loaded teams(pro bowlers and top back ups) teams anymore. They wanted the owners to pressured coaches to unload some of the talent so it would spread around.
bad and mediocre teams to UPSET contending teams. Even if they don't have a winning season it might keep their fans interested.
to keep salaries as low as possible.
to share revenue from any deals with a business.
* Suddenly ('99-) Loaded teams started looking bad. Sloppy play, mediocrity, terrible super bowl games and strange games started being noticed.
* One of the interesting and suspicious things was the new Owners and Al Davis.
Al supported NFLPA's Upshaw.
Al voted against the new CBA
Al openly criticized the sports media/ NFL and Owners.
Al was still suing the NFL (City of Oakland, City of L.A. and the Bucs)
Al kept paying guys huge salaries.
Al wasn't fast to try and get a new stadium
Al REFUSED to bring in a Billionaire as a new Owner.
* The Raiders were three time division Champions then the "Tuck Rule" two years later they went to the SB. In '03 they suddenly started losing and haven't won since.
Not only were players/ coaches told not to work for Al(Sean Peyton, Corey Dillion) but strange events were happening all over that team that just don't happen usually.
In a PARITY system a man who was a legend and may have literally built the modern NFL couldn't win ONE division title in 9 years?
The fans say it was Al's fault...sports media claims Raiders didn't have any talent. The idea of a good team was/is to have average players and game manager HCs'. The Raiders seemed to have outstanding personnel and good coaches.
This is just to tell you its' cool to be open minded but there are times when even your favorite league may have something shady need to be questioned.
Lol. Sandy, you're a bitter strawman. I posted my opinion. Nothing more. I said I used to watch Marino and always thought he was one of the best. I was a kid when he played, so sue me for having found memories of watching Dan Marino.
As for the Raiders, I call it like I see it. Unfortunately, they haven't done a lot lately to deserve showering praise on them. If they have, I'd be fascinated to hear about it.
IMO Raiders fans deserve better. But I'm okay if you disagree with that opinion. Are you?
You calling me bitter and a straw man is rich and laughable given that's your MO. you watered down Brady's accomplishments and stated incorrect facts about Arians it's in black and white above. I called you out on it but you don't have the maturity to admit when you are spouting nonsense.
I wouldn't use the word deserve as it relates to fans and if you take sports that seriously you really need to get a life, I love my team and find a way to enjoy them even when they're crap. I don't spend all my time putting them down and pretending I know better like you do
With the exception of the Gruden years of 99 to 2003 I admit the Raiders have been shitty for the majority of the past 27 years. As far as Gruden goes he is a true loyal Raider he really loves the team and that counts for a lot in my books and I think he has them on the right track I prefer to celebrate the positive aspects of the past year rather than the constant bitching and moaning you seem devoted to. Try and be a positive person you might find it healthy.
We're here to talk Raiders football, right? This is the off-season, right? Raiders, as an organization, need to attack every weakness and critical flaw that caused them to once again avert a winning season, right? After all, that's their job. Find the flaws and critical errors of past years, drafts, coaches, free agents, etc., and make adjustments.
Why does it bother you so much that I have an opinion on these matters? I don't care if you agree with my opinions, why is it so important to you that I agree with yours?
I'm not here for your affirmation. I'm here to talk Raiders football. It's been ugly, so you should expect some unflattering characterizations. Telling me to be positive is your version of hysteria.
Dissenting opinion is healthy. It makes for good discussion.
Get over yourself and join the discussion.
My anon friend who's been posting here lately believes the NFL has kept the Raiders down. I don't agree with many of his points but I love his passion and discussion. If you can take a break from making personal attacks, maybe you have an opinion on this matter. He is very knowledgeable about past players and coaches.
In the interest of moving forward, and because I know how much it bothers you, I will acknowledge that I overstated Arian's winning percentage, but my point didn't change. Arian's over.600 winning percentage is 100 basis points higher than Gruden and he brought the Bucs from being a losing team to SB Champs in 2 years. That's what I want in my HC. Don't you?
Enjoy your weekend!
Fine NY for the record I could care less about opinions expect when they are always hating on the Raiders, its a site for Raider fans not sure why you don't disperse a positive observation once in a blue moon. There must be something you like about the current team. BTW a 100 basis points equals 1% should read 1000 basis points, I except better from a guy who lives near Wall Street. Peace
On another note Vermeil and Farve are two pieces of shit who seem to think that black players should exist in indentured servitude.
I love Carr he is top ten and can win playoff games if given the chance.
However, if the Raiders could flip two 1s and Carr for Watson that would be amazing.
Sandy
Vermile was a very good coach I don't know what his attitude of Afro-American was but I do know he had good to very good teams. The usual conservative coach type.
Farve tried to get Packers to trade for Moss. I don't know if they offered Oakland a pick, I thought it was a 2nd rounder. Al said the Pats' offer was the best he could get. I wonder if word wasn't sent to owners to not trade with Raiders...ONLY the Pats were to get him...Just like with Peyton and Dillon. The Pats went to a 16-0 regular season. That Moss somehow was less a player and not worth a 2nd rounder is a ridiculous as saying Lion's Johnson would help a team that already had star WRs' win. Bad decisions? If Al was offered higher picks and ignored them to be made a fool of then I guess NY and Nate may be right....it was all bad decisions and even the players just didn't want to play for a legend who paid them well.
Positives?:
Raidernation is STILL loyal to Raiders.
D. Waller, I. Johnson, M. Crosby, M. Marriota, D. Carr.
Hey, tell fans to learn to protect themselves from Coronavirus.
Coach Flores, C-Wood and K. Stabler back in '16 are all in the HOF.
Stabler and Al may have made up before Al passed away.
* Talking Raiders' Football?: Which team? Al era, Reggie's new Raiders or Gruden's return? The new Raiders are what the NFL wants. I guess its' what Raidernation wanted. A team that is about MONEY and cooperation. No meddling with coaches, no lawsuits, drafting bigger, faster players, standing up for players' rights or any form or new ideas for offense or defense.
That's what Raidernation wanted...to be an NFL team.
Brady is one of the best ever. He won a lot of Championships and made a lot of his teams better with only a few elite level players (A. Brown, R. Moss, "Gronk" and W. Welker). There are some fans who feel things the NFL was more tougher in the 80s-90s' than the 2000s'. I don't know if these new O schemes are so complicated the old NFL D's wouldn't stop them...but the other QBs'...some feel those guys(Marino, Elway, Montana, Young, Bradshaw and Kelly) had to play the higher competition and in a tougher era.
Shitty for 27 years?: The Raiders won in the first four seasons of the 90s'('90,'92,'93) went on a 7 season losing streak but not like the 9 year slump and was coming off being the winningest team in pro-sports for 28 years('63-'91).
From 2000-'03 the won three AFC West titles and played in the SB in '02.
Then suddenly I guess, the whole NFL changed because loaded teams just stopped winning. Bad decisions? Gannon and Gruden out the building?
If Al had done what sports media said he should do would that have made them win? And who came up with this game manager HC and QB thing? Should we listen to just one NFL person or just the NFL? When did they learn Xs and Os?
If the Raiders needed to get average, high character athletes to do like I guess Bellichik and Ariens what about the HCs' Al hired shouldn't that have helped them win games?
The Raiders still had a huge group of guys who played in the SB so why did they suddenly start losing?
Was Gruden and Gannon so important that Al couldn't replace them? Doesn't he usually replace guys? But if all you needed was a game manager QB Al couldn't find one to help Raiders win?
When did the Raiders lose talent('03-'11)? Did they even have talent when they went to the SB against the Bucs?
If Reggie did such a great job then why was Raidernation happy for Gruden returning? Was getting Carr, Mack, Jackson, Murray, Streater, Autry, Ervin and hiring coach Allen good enough to win and if so why didn't we?
There's nothing the new Raiders could take from Al's era to help them win?
If Reggie was average and got average coaches and players with the model franchise system, why didn't the Raiders win?
Why do the new Raiders get inexperienced GMs'?
The off-season is a time to look hard at what went wrong. That's what I expect the Raiders are doing now. Why shouldn't (or can't) we do the same?
I like the idea of Russell Wilson. He's probably more in the mold of what Gruden wants, but I'm perfectly fine with Derek Carr. He had a fantastic year and will only get better as he gains more experience, ala Rich Gannon.
I expect Gruden to keep Carr, trade Mariotta (due to salary cap) and add two other QBs not previously seen in a Raiders uniform. Mariotta is intriguing but he's not better than Carr. No way!
How about Richard Sherman?! He's getting older but he's a FA and would immediately upgrade Raiders at CB or S. That would be a huge get for the Raiders defense.
They would be much better off signing a top free agent safety such as Johnson, Maye, Harris or Simmons. All superior to Sherman and they are proven safeties. Sherman is a cb and an old one at that and I wouldn't be willing to give up on Arnette yet for what he will cost.
Wilson is awesome but 7 years older than Watson. Unless its Carr and a only 1 first rounder only forget it.
Sandy
Raiders have a long history of converting some of the best CBs in the league to safety and squeezing several more very productive years out of them. Charles Woodson is an obvious player, but Albert Lewis comes to mind, and didn't Michael Haynes play some safety... that's going back so I'm not sure. Sherman is a savvy player like those guys were. He'd be smart to make the switch. He is up in years and will probably need to take a pay cut if he wants to keep playing.
Raiders are incredibly weak at safety, and Sherman would certainly be an upgrade.
Abrams is undisciplined. He's tough at the LOS but terrible in coverage... to the point which he is a liability on the field. Eric Harris is a good backup but that's all he is.
I want Arnette to be successful but his benching last season was no accident. I think Johnson is better, and he can't even secure a starting role. Lawson, who's 5'9" to Johnson's 6' 2", started over Johnson to replace Arnette. But we all saw what Johnson can do, defending two straight plays in the end zone to win a game last year.
Personally, I don't want a change at QB, but I have to admit Wilson is intriguing.
I want them to bolster the D-line at DT, DB, and a WR in Free Agency. Even though the thought of JJ Watt is intriguing; I think I would rather have Leonard Williams, and he has expressed interest being a Raider, since that is the team he grew up watching.
I am also big on pursuing TY Hilton, and staying away from the head case of JuJu Schuster-Smith. I wouldn't mind Sherman if he is willing to move to Safety. Xavier Woods (Cowboys) is an inexpensive option, and so is Ronald Darby, Mackensie Alexander, and Jason Verrett.
I think there is a lot of hidden value in this year's draft. I have been banging this drum for a while, but Dustin Crum (QB, Kent St) is a sleeper pick in the draft that the Raiders can get as a QB of the future. Give him a year or two to study under Gruden, and then watch him give Carr a run for his money. I love Carr, I don't think he is a problem at QB; but I also love competition, and think he's gotten a little comfortable. He had his best year as a pro this last year, and if he had a #20+ ranked defense, I think the Raiders would have gone far in the post season. The more I see videos, the more I like this Crum kid.
I think Trent Brown is gone. He has took every thing Raider related off his social media accounts. Already confirmed that Tyrell Williams is not coming back. Dillon Radunz (OT, North Dakota St) may be our second pick. Javonte Williams is another good pick. I think our first pick may be Micah Parsons. I also like Elerson Smith (I've said that quite a number of times too). Gonna be a fun offseason, but yes, Gruden and Mayock need to address the big concerns on defense, and touch the offense.
Do you think Carr has gotten too comfortable? I'd say last year's uncertainty made for a pretty uncomfortable off-season, including trade rumors and implied competition of bringing in Mariotta at a pretty hefty salary.
Carr played his ass off in 2020 and he should be comfortable now. But I expect him to play his ass off again in 2021. I believe that's the kind of individual he is.
IMO, Carr is the only Raiders QB who stays. I think Gruden redoes the QB room, perhaps including one from the draft... maybe a guy like Crum. You know he's dying to work with a young impressionable QB. This is a guy who retained 4 QBs on the initial 53-man roster two years ago... and at least two of them were total duds. No sane HC does that.
Shame about Trent Brown but I don't know how the Raiders can afford to keep him, especially, if he doesn't want to play... which it seems he doesn't. Some mock drafts I've seen have the Raiders picking a RT early in the draft. Not sure a rookie can replace Brown.
I spoke too soon. Just read the Raiders re-signed Peterman. I don't get that. Peterman was terrible in Buffalo and lost whatever confidence he had, so the Bills dumped him. He can't help the Raiders now or in the future. Why bother? Hopefully, it's just a stopgap measure.
Carr has had trade rumors around him the last 4 offseasons, and they all start on February 2nd (go look it up). This year it is Watson or Wilson coming to the Raiders, while they trade Carr away. There was also a report the Raiders were trading Carr to keep Mariota.
Carr knows Gruden's system, and when other players are interviewed about Carr, they talk about how the rest of the team is having to adjust to his knowledge; but also how he is quick to forgive mistakes and build up his struggling team mates. Donald Penn, Kelechi Osemele, and Jon Feliciano have all said this recently about Carr, and it was widely reported that Penn was the leader in a revolt against Carr in the locker room because he didn't kneel during the Washington game in 2017.
Carr is a leader, and there are not a lot of QB's that would do better than him. Dare I say: Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Russell Wilson are the only QB's worth taking over Carr. You can argue Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes here, but I don't think either one is that much better than Carr, and don't even get me started on Watson.
All that to say, yes, I think Carr is comfortable. He has the full support of Gruden and Mayock. Listen to how they talk about him year in and year out. Listen to how Mark Davis talks about him, and how Del Rio and Reggie McKenzie talked about him when they were here. He is a leader, and he has done amazing things in his career for the Raiders that are overlooked because they haven't won much. In my opinion, if Carr wants to improve, he is going to have to hold players accountable for mistakes, and be more of a red-ass.
Trent Brown ballooned to over 400 pounds after he signed with the Raiders. If you follow him on Twitter or IG, he is working that weight off; but I think already knows the Raiders are cutting him as he has taken everything Raiders-related off his website. He is lazy! I think with the wonders that Tom Cable has done on the O-line, he can make a rookie RT work.
He never wanted to play for the Raiders, he wanted a big contract. I think other teams won't spend that much for him. He stole money from Mark Davis, much like Moss did from Al.
Richie Incognito may restructure his contract to come back, he loves being a Raider. It is now being reported that Lamarcus Joyner will be cut saving $9.9 million, couple that with Tyrell Williams, it saves just a bit over $26 million.
Raiders are making room to make a serious run at some players. Hopefully it is Leonard Williams and TY Hilton. We will see. Just Win, BABY!
Positives for Raiders!:
Two new Hall of Famers(Coach Flores and C. Woodsen).
The Raiders have fans that love them.
The Raiders went 8-8 instead of 7-9.
Raidernation is one if not the best fan base in the NFL.
Raiders have been to five SBs' winning three.
Raiders were pro sports' winningest team for 28 years.
Raiders went to the playoffs at least once in every decade. '60s-'16.
Raiders set many SB records, although many are being broken, they played in some of the greatest SB games and against a lot of future HOF players and coaches.
* Raiders need to draft guys who can really be exciting and mismatches. Drafting to build like the Pats is o.k. if you think you have the coaches to make the players work into winners or a Tom Brady. But other teams have their own ways and maybe the Raiders should look at other ways and their own.
KC builds like the Raiders that Al was leading.
Dallas builds like....Dallas
Ravens old school with no sports media attacks.
Steelers: do it their way and have been winning for years.
Broncos: taking page from Al and drafting good DBs' and pass rushers.
Washington: they don't win but I like their going after athletes and big players. Now, they have one of the best pass rushes in the NFL.
49ers: they built a very good D-line and are like the Steelers finding LBs'.
Sure, there are some teams that have built by high-character and passion and good coaching but sometimes teams can get the biggest, fastest players and with good players and good coaches win.
* You're trying to go back to greatness with other systems which is o.k. but why not get some ideas from the man who built the Raiders decades and just a decade ago?
Oh, but big, fast athletes and expensive free agents can't win-anymore. You went along with the sports media the losing made you look at their claims more.
You went along with the hiring of Reggie: picked to be the new GM.
He was going to bring the salary cap back to normal.
draft like the winners Pats, Packers, Steelers and Colts and find that great QB.
get rid of those expensive contracts holding the team down.
Raidernation and Reggie: He hired Dennis Allen as coach, he signed cheap injury prone players, either picked a staff very fast or let coach Allen pick them. He released almost every FA player Al signed.
Raidernation got: The worst secondary in Raiders' history. the D-line wasn't helping team win games, special teams became average. Offense became some of worst in Raiders' history.
Raidernation saw changes and maybe this would bring success!: Jack DelRio was hired. Derrick Carr was getting better.
BUT!!!!!! Delrio dealt with mediocrity in the draft and terrible game plans and mediocre-average FA signings.
BUT!!!! they found new players to help Raiders win. After Raidernation backed moving on from Al the new Raiders went a got his ex-players to help them win!!! Charles Woodsen returned and Raiders made the playoffs after 14 years away!
Delrio! Delrio! wait, the NFL said Al fired coaches to fast! A rumor comes up that John Gruden wants to coach again and wow! Hes' the Raiders' new HC!!!
Raidernation!!! I thought Hue Jackson was the only guy to throw his team under the bus!!! Wow!!! Even though he was upset they couldn't beat a Teebow lead Broncos team to go to the playoffs the same year Al passed.
Raidernation! maybe all of us threw Raiders we had problems with under the bus. No matter who or from what era we stick with our team. If its bad decisions I stick with team if its' outright tampering I am a Raiders fan-we may go with NFL or media's ideas or feel theres' tampering but we are still Raidernation.
Cool summary! The good and the bad. Or maybe, the good, the bad and the ugly!
For all the modern era failures, we still have successes of the old days to carry us in our time of need.
Cheers!
Raiders have officially released Tyrell Williams. Expect to see more like Trent Brown, LaMarcus Joyner, and Marcus Mariota in the coming weeks.
Here's a good article about Derek Carr too, and what 3 GM's in the league currently think of him.
https://www.si.com/nfl/raiders/the-black-hole-plus/derek-carr-deshaun-watson-bill-parcells-phil-simms-rick-gosselin-las-vegas-raiders-nfl
I think the Raiders would like to be compensated for some players, especially, Mariota, whom they deem is marketable. Others are just overpriced!
Brown is probably the best RT in the league but the Raiders need more stability at the position. Joyner has been a disappointment since he arrived.
We are so loyal, we didn't let losing cause us to quit on out team.
* What about the winningest franchise in pro sports for 28 years? How did the Raiders do that being they started playing in 1960?
who was the other top teams in pro sports?:
Boston Celtics
L.A. Lakers
New York Yankees
San Francisco 49ers
Miami Dolphins
L.A. Dodgers
Pittsburgh Steelers
Dallas Cowboys
Chicago Bulls
No other team has held that title that long
* fan clubs get busy texting and talking to Raidernation across the world!!!!
We don't get negative we get pumped!!!!
We got two HOFers in this year's class.
We have the best QB situation in years. I think Mariota could take us to the playoffs if Carr got injured. I think Carr can take us to the playoffs with some help and good coaching.
We have a good CB I. Johnson who may be a pro bowler and if he gets a chance to start we could have one of our best CB duos in a decade.
Al may be getting negative comments but he still proved his system still worked because the Ravens and KC are a lot like the teams he built.
Alright guys,
#1-Who is your Free Agent wish list? #2-Who do you think the Raiders will realistically target this off-season? #3-Who are the potential draft prospects you are watching that you want the Raiders to pick?
#1-My first choice, big name, free agent that I would like to see the Raiders target is DT Leonard Williams. He grew up a Raiders fan, and wants to play for them. I'd love to get him in the mix.
A lot of rumors that the Raiders are interested in JuJu Schuster-Smith. He is one of the most talented WR's in the league right now, but I think he is a risk. I know some of the most talented WR's are show boats, but Pittsburgh is not happy with him dancing on the opponents logos before games. JuJu is also looking to leave because he is unhappy with Big Ben, and his "faith". Not sure what Ben's "faith" is, since he is not so outspoken about it like Derek Carr is.
Richard Sherman has also been linked to the Raiders. I wouldn't mind this, and I think we could get a few more years out of him at Safety too.
JJ Watt is another one who is linked to the Raiders. I like Watt, but I think he is a 1 or 2 year guy. Not sure I would want to spend big $$ for two years for a guy who has been injured mostly the last 2 in Houston. He would be a great addition in our pass rush game, but health is a serious concern (like Trent Brown). Plus, keep in mind, a move at DE has already been made by the Raiders. It hasn't gained much attention in the press either. David Irving has signed with the Raiders from the Cowboys.
#2 - Now here is who I think they will target in Free Agency. I'm not sure they have the $$ to go after Leonard Williams, JuJu, Watt, and Richard Sherman; and they may have to target only one of them. If they do, I hope it is Leonard Williams. He is young, explosive, and will bring immediate help to our d-line for years to come. Also, we can get some good vet experience at good value in the other positions. Here is who else I think they target.
A.J. Bouye (CB, Doncos). Bouye has been underrated at this position, and I love keeping that hatred with the Doncos going by stealing their guys. Bouye would be the perfect vet CB at a reasonable price, to help teach the younger guys more about the position.
Matthew Judon (OLB/DE, Ravens). Here is a guy who has only missed 4 games in his career, and is good for 6-9 sacks per season.
TY Hilton or AJ Green. It may be that TY goes back to Indy, so I'm not sure how much this will go. AJ Green is not happy in Cincy and feels like he needs a chance with a contender. He sat out last year. There were conflicting reports about why too. He was injured early in the season, but reports toward the end of the season was that he was a "healthy" scratch, and wasn't willing to play for Cincy anymore. He was trying to be traded, but wouldn't play to show his trade value coming off injury. I think the Raiders have a shot at him for good $$.
Let me make a correction, we re-signed David Irving, not signed him away from the Cowboys.
As far as the Draft goes, I would like to see the Raiders first 2 picks as: Micah Parsons (OLB/DE, Penn St) and Dillon Radunz (RT, North Dakota St). I really think the Raiders are going to cut Trent Brown and re-sign Denzelle Goode to help the rookie Radunz (if drafted).
I am still big on Dustin Crum (QB, Kent St), Elerson Smith (DE, Northern Iowa), and Javonte Williams (RB, North Carolina) a big back to help Jacobs stay healthy and get some pounded yards.
All in all, I don't think the Raiders need a lot. We do need a veteran WR that will help develop the WR corp we have. AJ Green still has #1 WR talent, and we can get him for cheap. We need several leaders on Defense. I think Leonard Williams and AJ Bouye will bring that. I am hoping we can get Williams and Richard Sherman, but not sure if we can afford it. We will need some spots on the O-Line. I think we are bringing back Incognito, but are cutting Brown. We can fill some holes out in the draft that will help build the future. But we need to win now. JUST WIN, BABY!
Leonard Williams would cost way too much. I would much prefer Jurell Casey or Akeem Hicks if and when he gets cut. AJ Green is completely done he would be a terrible signing much rather re-sign agholor same goes for Sherman they can't be spending money on old players.
I completely agree paying 8 figurers a year for a FA has gotten Raiders no where. I would rather resign Autry or Kerrigan for 5 - 7 per year than tie up a bunch of cap. Guys like Judon or Williams are going to cost 15 plus a year and they don't even play the 4-3.
I am all in on Trent Brown we can not take a step back on the O line and if he stays healthy 16 is a bargain for a pro bowl tackle. Anyone else half decent will cost that and if we want a pro bowler like Trent Williams will go over 20 million. Keep Brown for a year and draft someone for the future
Sandy
Sorry Brown makes 14 million a real bargain if he is healthy. I say cut Joyner, Nassib, Arden Key and if they really need to clear space Gabe Jackson
Funny how anyone would mentioned bringing back Autry. I was criticized for suggesting the Raiders should not have let him go. Arden Key is not a salary cap issue. He's just bad.
Honestly, the Raiders could cut their entire defense and start over and field a better defense than they had last year, starting with guys like Autry. Maybe keep a couple young CBs (not named Arnette) and Crosby because, well, he's got a Raiders tattoo. Where else can you play with that?!
Trent Brown is injury prone, plain and simple. IMO, he's a far bigger risk to keep than he is to cut. Raiders have played at least half their games without him since he arrived.
I think cutting Mariota would yield about $8mm salary cap savings.
Leonard Williams would be a great addition. Very costly but maybe we could, cough, trade Brown and Mariota for him.
If we've learned anything over all the years of bickering about salary cap, anything is possible. Teams prove that year and year.
I don't think Trent Brown is coming back, and he knows it. He has removed everything Raiders related off his social media sites. I think his attitude last year showed he did not want to play for the Raiders. Gruden was not real happy with Brown or his attitude, and neither was Mayock. They both called him out several times last season.
I wrote that the Raiders could afford one real quality player at a high price, and if they utilize that, I would hope they bring in Williams. I think we need a strong DT, over a DE at this point. I think Irving will help at DE, Ferrell is getting better, we just need a consistent push up the middle that they have lacked for years (since Mack was here too). We can also get Shelby Harris, DaQuan Jones, and Jurrell Casey (another steal from the Doncos) for good money and spent elsewhere, but I think DT is going to be a spot we need for awhile. Our great defenses of the past had great DT: Darrell Russell, Chester McGlockton, Jerry Ball, Grady Jackson, Otis Sistrunk, Dan Birdwell, Bob Golic, Tom Keating, Reggie Kinlaw, John Matuszak, Carleton Oats, Bill Pickel, and Art Thoms. We need a stellar DT that can pressure the QB, and help the talent at DE get coverage sacks, and free up double teams on DE's to get consistent sacks.
NY who do you replace Brown with? Parker and Sam Young were a disaster.
Sandy
Agreed. Parker and young are two wasted roster spots. Good played well at RT. There will be options in FA and/or in the draft. Raiders may have to burn an early to mid round pick for an OL that might be able to move in at RT.
As Nate said, Brown appears no longer interested in playing for the Raiders. Maybe he doesn't want to play at all. He's possibly the best RT in the league but there's no way to sugarcoat it, the cost-benefit is not there.
It's unfortunate because the Raiders are noticeably better when Brown is healthy and playing.
My opinion is that Carr needs consistency on his OL. Raiders can't keep bringing in guys like Parker and Young to replace Brown. We need a legit starter at RT. And we need a new swing tackle.
I think free agency is only about two weeks away. Should be interesting.
NY,
The thought of going back to the days of Marshall Newhouse and Austin Howard turns my stomach. I remember all of us here regularly lamenting the sate of the RT position back in 16, 17 and 18. God I would like to see back but to replace Gabe Jackson who was cut yesterday.
I am not into having a rookie block for Carr he is very dependent on a clean pocket to be his best. The Raiders blew their chance at a rookie who could efectivley start when last year they let Tristian Wirfs go one pick after Ruggs. The quality rookiesthis year will be gone before the Raiders pick.
The FA pool is slim pickings. Trent Williams the only guy as good as Trent Brown will cost over 20 million, Taylor Morton from Carolina who is definitely a step down from will cost more than Brown's 14 mm. Villeneuve, Cam Robinson, Darryl Williams I would rather take my chances on Brown any day than pay those three the same or more.
Regards,
Sandy
Yeah, I remember the Raiders suffered through many years of bad play at RT. You make some good points, especially, Carr needing a secure pocket to be most effective.
With Jackson gone (and I'm just hearing that) I expect Good will move into his spot. Right?
How can the Raiders outright cut Jackson? I guess that increases the chance Brown will remain. Otherwise, could the Raiders possibly lose Jackson, Brown and Incognito in the same off-season?
For all the holes on this team, we seem to be creating more... self-inflicted.
Honestly, for as good as the offense played last year, it doesn't look very stable. Where we had strengths, e.g., WR and OL, we now appear to have holes. I predict Agholor will not be back. After last season, he's about to get paid as a FA.
I am okay with Jackson gone we can't spend 10 million on a guard with so many other holes to fill as NY points out. If they can get Good or another comparable player back at 4 and spend 6 to 7 on a good safety (Marcus Williams, Johnson, Harris) I would say that is a good exchange of salary. Broncos wont let Simmons go and I don't think Maye will be let go by the Jets.
NY re Incognito I read in the Athletic it turned out to be floating bone chips rather than Achilles so I think he will be back next year. At 5 million a year he is worth keeping to see if they can squeeze another year out of him. He is still better than Jackson and a real leader.
I expect Joyner and Mariota will be gone any day now. The Raiders should be conservative in FA and not pay big bucks for any one player. They need multiple bodies at db, edge, wr, dt and guard.
Sandy
One thing about Gruden, he's not shy about bringing in players and moving players in and out of the lineup to find the best fit.
On one hand - and this point was aptly made above - the Raiders don't have a lot to show for spending big money on FA contracts. One the other hand, bargain shopping can only take you so far.
IMO, Gruden should not need 4-5 years to get the Raiders back into the playoffs, but that's where we are.
To be sure, the Raiders have a long history of firing head coaches for less.
Not saying Gruden should be fired, only that it's frustrating that the bar has been "reset" so low. I think the Raiders org and its fans have been desensitized by so many failures.
So, despite all the under-performing FA signings of the past, IMO the Raiders still need to make a effort to sign at least 1-2 impact players. Time is running out on reasonable advancement.
No one in the Raiders' camp has confirmed that Gabe is gone. Mayock seemed to address more about Trent Brown. I don't think Trent wants to be a Raider because of the team doctor that screwed up his IV and almost killed him. I think he has asked the Raiders to release him, and if they don't, he will pull an AB. This could get ugly. The best thing the Raiders can do is find a suitor for a trade because if they cut him, another team won't get him cheap.
With that said, I like Gabe Jackson. Only Rodney Hudson has out-played him. Gabe is mean and nasty, and is a great O-lineman. I'd hate to see him get cut.
Key would play better in KC, SD or Denver because they have good D-line coaches or schemes.
Autry was a good player for us but they need to look for star players.
Isiah Johnson is a pro-bowl CB that Raiders need to give a chance to play more or even start.
Why get rid of Mariota after the way he played as a starter? He is exciting...the Raiders are slow and dull and they want to be that way to make the NFL happy.
We always think Raiders will sign a star FA...they won't. After the Reggie era the Raiders just won't sign expensive stars. Raidernation feels this is o.k. because now, they like the "Model Franchise" way.
Gabe Jackson was a winner for the Raiders and he will be missed. But if T. Brown can work hard the Raiders will have a good air game this year.
Raidernation just don't like many of the Al era ideas. SPEED! o.k. Bellichick and Ariens, Tomlin can win without but it was part of the Raiders' system
Hey, why all the Steelers' WR love? How many times are we going to take their guys and give up draft picks? There was a time we drafted high and got stars and drafted lower and made guys into stars.
The Raiders not having a great pass rush is like the Lakers not having great guards. Its' been actually 10 years since they had a top D-line.
Raidernation has been loyal and Raiders should show loyalty by making things affordable and maybe some contests for tickets to games or cash or giveaways for fans and anybody wanting things.
Get a fast backup RB and some speed a olb the Raiders are slow and need more speed. Speed won't solve every problem but fans need to stop letting sports media tell Raidernation just Pats model franchise way is the only system.
Jackson has proven to be consistent and durable, two traits the Raiders cannot afford to give up. Hopefully, they figure it out and keep him.
Mariota played well 1x as a starter for the Raiders and makes low-tier starter money. That makes him an obvious cap casualty. IMO, Carr is by far the better QB. Carr is more accurate and has proven he can finish games. His amazing career of game-ending drives would be even more impressive if the Raiders had a good defense.
Honestly, IMO, there should not be any discussion who the Raiders QB should be in 2021.
The Raiders, Gruden, and many fans have been patient with the painfully slow progress the Raiders have displayed the last three years. Derek Carr is not the problem. He is one of the few bright spots. IMO, he can only be replaced by an elite QB. Mariota is far from that.
Autry is not a household name but he is a competent and serviceable edge player, perhaps better than any the Raiders have fielded since he left.
IMO, the Raiders don't need flash, they need better coaching, game planning and execution (probably meaning better players). That's a lot for a team going into year 4 with the same regime.
March 14 is the start of free agency.
First, I wouldn't take stock in anything the Raiders have said publicly about their plans for free agency.
Mayock and Gruden can be criticized for many things over the past few years, but not being deliberate or proactive in free agency isn't one of them. Their aggressiveness has pushed the envelope of tampering in past years.
Reviewing contracts like Jackson, Brown, Mariota are intended to position the Raiders to make an impact. I would assume someone like Autry is on that radar.
NY completely agree on Carr. Jackson is good but 10 mm for a guard who is not a pro bowler no thanks way too much. I read that Richie Incognito will be resigned. I would like to see Morrow back and spend Jackson money on a fa.
Sandy
Trent Brown and a 7th rd pick traded for a 5th rd pick.
Why does it feel like the Patriots just ate our lunch, again?
When Brown came to us (from the Pats) he became the highest paid lineman in NFL history. When he goes back to the Pats, he reworks that deal to accommodate the trade (apparently, desperate to get out of LV).
The Raiders have a long history of bad deals with the Patriots, who always get the best out of the Raiders rejects. Remember Randy Moss?
Gruden has not done well in free agency. I'd like to think this year might be the exception.
It makes me sad to see the Trent Brown situation end the way it did. However, if he did not want to be on the Raiders fuck him. I can't sugar coat it the offseason in 2019 was a disaster: Trent Brown, Joyner, Williams and Antonio Brown.
Mayock and Gruden get a B- for drafting since they arrived but an F for free agency. The exceptions being Waller, Kwiatkoski and Aghlor
I hope the o line can add back Good and Incognito at reasonable salaries and then either Darryl Williams (the only FA T worth signing) or one of the top tackles falls to them in the first round. As for the rest of FA I have always thought FA is generally fools gold, the great players get franchised or signed. A better approach is spending moderate amounts of money to add depth.
I still very much believe in Gruden as it relates to his coaching skills.
Regards,
Sandy
Sandy? Hello? Is that you?
I agree with your grading.
I want to give Gruden and Mayock the benefit of any doubt but they are wearing thin on that layer of trust. I think both are smart and talented but they need to be smarter (and luckier) than they've been.
My concern is that there's no accountability. As Floria (an apparent Raider hater) put it, Gruden and Davis are close friends, and there's no way Gruden's feet will be held to the fire if he doesn't produce.
Then we see draft picks and free agents who are (and have been) leaving town are the same ones we were told would be integral to the Raiders redevelopment.
The cycling of coaches and players, starting each year like it's anew, all boils down to the realization that it could still be a while before we see results, if we do.
IMO, Carr growing into an elite QB is our best hope in the coming years. Not sure I've ever been a bigger fan of Derek Carr than I am right now. He's a shining star on this team of average talent.
NY touché lol yeah its me the eternal optimist but not today, I am pasting a good article from The Athletic I think you might enjoy. Due to limits on this blog I need to do it in four parts. Sandy
Tashan Reed and Vic Tafur weren’t in complete agreement, so they created two differing 53-man rosters. Both assumed a salary cap of around $180 million (Note: The salary cap was set Wednesday morning at $182.5 million) with a five-rookie draft class projected to cost roughly $5 million in 2021.
The Raiders have six picks in the 2021 NFL Draft, but the seventh-round pick will probably be a long shot to make the team, so only five rookie slots were used.
Players projected below who are not under contract for 2021 with the Raiders, including potential draftees, are listed in italics.
Quarterback
Reed (3): Derek Carr, Mike Glennon, Nathan Peterman
The Raiders like Peterman and signed him to a one-year extension last month, but the prospect of him stepping into the starting lineup if something happens to Carr remains a frightening one. Glennon is familiar with Gruden’s system, as he played with the Raiders in 2019, and he was decent in five starts with the Jaguars last season. Ideally, neither Glennon nor Peterman ever sees the field, but the former would be more capable of playing at a competent level if need be. Carr played like a top-15 quarterback in 2020 and could be better this year with some schematic tweaks, increased receiver production and improved health along the offensive line.
Tafur (2): Derek Carr, Nathan Peterman
The Raiders wouldn’t mind having Marcus Mariota back as the No. 2 quarterback, but at much, much, much, much less than the $10 million salary he is due. He probably won’t restructure and the incentives in his contract make a trade difficult, so instead he’ll likely opt to get cut and try to compete for a starting job elsewhere (Washington or New England?). Mariota was brought in last year to push Carr, and Carr pushed back hard and had his best season under Gruden. The Raiders don’t need a third quarterback because Carr rarely gets hurt, and Peterman has been around for a while now and should be fine. That way, the Raiders can spend Mariota’s $7.5 million from last season (ay, caramba!) on the other positions.
Running back
Reed and Tafur (4): Josh Jacobs, Jalen Richard, Devontae Booker, rookie
Booker was surprisingly effective in 2020, to the tune of 4.5 yards per carry. He was a steady option when Jacobs needed to catch a breather and could do the same in 2021 unless he’s able to draw a more lucrative offer elsewhere. Richard saw his role reduced last season and is pricey for a third-down running back at $3.5 million, but he remains the best route-running and pass-blocking back on the roster. Throw in the fact that he’s a favorite of the locker room and coaching staff and it’s easy to see Las Vegas holding on to him. With that being said, the Raiders take a dual-threat back late in the draft with an eye toward the future. — Reed
Gruden sees all three returning guys as winners, and maybe they take another stab at a Lynn Bowden Jr. type, only faster with a little less off-field drama. — Tafur
Fullback
Reed and Tafur (1): Alec Ingold
Ingold was hampered by a rib injury last season but still appeared in all 16 games and played 22 percent of the offensive snaps. He didn’t do much as a rusher but improved as a receiver and caught 12 passes while averaging 9.2 yards per catch. Most importantly, of course, he helps pave the way for running backs coming out of the backfield. — Reed
Was it a coincidence that the offense faltered after Ingold broke his ribs and played hurt the rest of the way? Maybe. Maybe not. — Tafur
Wide receiver
Reed (5) Henry Ruggs III, Bryan Edwards, Hunter Renfrow, Nelson Agholor, Zay Jones
There are more expensive options, such as Juju Smith-Schuster or Corey Davis, that the Raiders could pursue, but they’re probably not worth it considering all the holes on defense. Agholor averaged a career-high 18.7 yards per catch last season and should be cheaper to bring back on a short-term deal. Jones provides some depth behind Ruggs, who needs to step it up after a mediocre rookie campaign.
Tafur (5): Henry Ruggs III, Bryan Edwards, Hunter Renfrow, Nelson Agholor, rookie
Agholor has been visiting the Raiders facility recently even though he is about to test the free-agent market. He has earned a nice payday, and I think Gruden wants to give it to him — within reason. Agholor’s production and leadership last season were big surprises and sorely needed. Jones is looking for more money and a bigger role, and the Raiders will probably replace him with a rookie or practice-squader Keelan Doss. They have a lot of confidence that Edwards is ready to make a splash and that Ruggs will be improved.
Tight end
Reed and Tafur (3): Darren Waller, Foster Moreau, Derek Carrier
The Raiders carried four tight ends last season, but Jason Witten largely just got in the way of Moreau getting more reps. With Witten retiring for the second time, Moreau will take over as the primary backup behind Waller. That’s a strong receiving duo, with Carrier providing a reliable blocker and special-teams ace on a team-friendly contract. — Reed
Maybe we look back one day and Moreau had a year added to his career thanks to being an understudy to Witten. It’s not like they would have made the playoffs if Moreau had played more. — Tafur
Offensive line
Reed (10): Kolton Miller, Richie Incognito, Rodney Hudson, Denzelle Good, Daryl Williams, Cameron Erving, John Simpson, James Hurst, Andre James, rookie
The big domino fell Tuesday when the Raiders traded Trent Brown along with a seventh-round pick to the Patriots for a fifth-round pick and shed his $14 million salary, but they’d already started the process of change up front. They released Gabe Jackson to save $9.6 million and cut Richie Incognito to save $5.475 million. A lot of that money will be spent elsewhere, but some of it should be used to bring back Good and Incognito as the starters at guard. To replace Brown, they sign Daryl Williams, who started 16 games at right tackle for the Bills last season. They also add Erving, who can play every position on the offensive line but would serve as the swing tackle, and Hurst, who can play guard and tackle but gives the Raiders an insurance policy as a backup guard in case Simpson still isn’t ready. Las Vegas rounds out the tackle position by drafting one once the defensive needs are addressed.
Tafur (10): Kolton Miller, Richie Incognito, Rodney Hudson, John Simpson, Kyle Long, rookie, Denzelle Good, Brandon Parker, Andre James, Jaryd Jones-Smith
With a motivated and an in-shape Brown now playing for someone else — shaking my head — I think the Raiders draft his replacement at right tackle in either the first or second round. (Offensive line coach Tom Cable is one of the team’s few assistant coaches on the pro day circuit the next month.) And recently un-retired Kyle Long is the perfect fit in free agency as he can start at either guard spot or right tackle. And he is Howie Long’s son! (Mark Davis just fainted.) Otherwise, Tashan and I are on the same page — especially with the team bringing back Incognito — except I have Simpson, the second-year player out of Clemson, getting the starting nod at right guard over Good. Good was almost the team MVP last season and deserves to get a pay raise and a starting opportunity when he tests the free-agent market, but I don’t know if that’s going to be there for him as he is 30 with a history of nagging injuries. The Raiders would love to have him back in the backup guard/emergency tackle role. Parker returns for Year 4, but if he can’t even win the job as backup/swing tackle, there really isn’t any point.
Defensive line
Reed (9): Maxx Crosby, Clelin Ferrell, Johnathan Hankins, Mo Hurst, David Irving, Kendal Vickers, Carl Lawson, Larry Ogunjobi, rookie
This is the weakest position group on the roster, and the Raiders address it by signing Lawson and Ogunjobi. Lawson had only 5 1/2 sacks with the Bengals in 2020 but was second in the league with 32 quarterback hits. He’s more of a speed rusher at 6-foot-2, 265 pounds, so Las Vegas should draft an edge rusher with more size and length, such as Miami’s Gregory Rousseau or Wake Forest’s Carlos Basham Jr. Ogunjobi compiled 13 1/2 sacks and 25 tackles for loss in the last three seasons as a starter with the Browns and would provide a nice interior pass rusher alongside Hankins. Crosby and Lawson could rotate on early downs while Ferrell moves to the interior on obvious passing downs to allow the duo to play at the same time.
Tafur (9): Maxx Crosby, Clelin Ferrell, Mo Hurst, David Irving, rookie, Kendal Vickers, Linval Joseph, Maliek Collins, Arden Key
That rookie listed above is the Raiders’ first-round pick. There should be some interesting options at pass rusher at No. 17 in Michigan’s Kwity Paye, Miami teammates Gregory Rousseau and Jaelan Phillips and Georgia’s Azeez Ojulari. To me, that makes a lot more sense than signing a free agent to a big contract. Former Chargers tackle Joseph comes aboard to reunite with new coordinator Gus Bradley, and Collins returns on a discount after a disappointing season. The recently re-signed Irving is the wild card. He had some dominant flashes when he was with the Cowboys and is a physical specimen who can play up and down the line.
Having said all this, it would not surprise me if Gruden went the aging AFC West vet route and added Melvin Ingram as the pass rusher and drafted an offensive tackle in the first round.
Linebacker
Reed and Tafur (6): Nick Kwiatkoski, Cory Littleton, Nicholas Morrow, Tanner Muse, Javin White, rookie
The Raiders will often use a 4-2-5 package on defense, but they still need a reliable third linebacker to use when they go to a 4-3 base. Morrow may have been the best linebacker on the team last season and would fill that role, but he might get poached by another team. Muse is a special-teamer, while White is an intriguing project as an outside linebacker. It’d be a good move to draft a linebacker to provide some more depth on the interior. — Reed
Quick, who were the two best defensive players for the Raiders last year? Morrow should probably be on your list, along with either Crosby or Hankins. I thought he was a goner when he questioned the team’s accountability on the last day of the season, but it wants him back and is currently negotiating with him. If Littleton can bounce back from a bad year and thrive in Bradley’s less-complicated system, the Raiders might finally have a good LB corps. — Tafur
Secondary
Reed (9): Trayvon Mullen, Johnathan Abram, John Johnson, Damon Arnette, Mike Hilton, Isaiah Johnson, Jeff Heath, rookie, Amik Robertson
The young secondary struggled last season, and while it’s not time to hit the eject button, there needs to be a productive veteran presence. Insert Johnson and Hilton, who take over as the starting free safety and nickelback, respectively. Lamarcus Joyner getting cut saved $8.7 million, which helped facilitate both deals. This isn’t a deep safety draft, but the Raiders should take a flier on one with long-term upside just in case Abram doesn’t pan out in Year 3.
Tafur (10): Trayvon Mullen, Johnathan Abram, Rayshawn Jenkins, Jason Verrett, Damon Arnette, Isaiah Johnson, Jeff Heath, Erik Harris, Amik Robertson, undrafted rookie.
Jenkins, a former Charger, can plug right in at free safety and not break the bank. Verrett will be a little more expensive but is still a bargain thanks to his injury history. He had a great year with the 49ers last season, and Bradley is a big fan from their days together. Abram will have to play more of a nickel linebacker role because of his pass-coverage issues. Mullen and Arnette will improve under Bradley and without the pressure of being the No. 1 corner. Harris returns to a backup/special-teams role, as Gruden and Mayock love what he brings to the locker room. After not being able to bring in any free agents to see the new digs last year, former Jaguars, Texans and Broncos cornerback A.J. Bouye is visiting this week. Bouye, 29, has two games left on a PED suspension.
Special teams
Reed and Tafur (3): Daniel Carlson, A.J. Cole, Trent Sieg
There’s no reason to mess with anything here. — Reed
They came in as rookies two years ago and could rival the Raiders’ longtime trio of Sebastian Janikowski, Shane Lechler and Jon Condo one day. — Tafur
Looks like mostly the same roster we have now, with some rookie additions. I like the idea of bringing back Agholor. He earned it and should stay with Carr. The guy was a TD machine by Raiders standards.
I question if keeping guys like Collins and Key will help the Raiders improve. Alternately, suggesting the Raiders maintain mostly the same roster on defense seems to imply the problems were with coaching, which might be the case since, after all, Guenther was fired.
The way I see it, the Raiders just made a lot of salary cap room and they are getting ready to spend it. As we seem to agree, that's not worked out for them in the past as we'd hoped, but who knows.
Let's discuss RT. Putting aside starting a rookie---boy I wish we took Tristan Wrifs last year instead of Ruggs.
Here is the top FAs Tackles.
Trent Williams, Mitchell Schwartz, Darryl Williams, Riley Reiff, Okung, Wagner
Trent Williams is a top 3 tackle in the league but will cost close to 20mm so forget him.
I go with Williams first and if healthy Schwartz a close second
What about you?
Sandy
Getting any competent vet RT and stabilizing that position would be huge, right?. As good as Brown was when he played, he didn't play often enough to label the position stable (I wouldn't blame him for being pissed off about the IV).
We already agree Parker and Young are not the answer, and I would go further to suggest neither appear to be a competent backup swing tackle either.
Good played well in a backup role at RT but is he "good" enough to transition to the position fulltime? Did we even secure Good? He's a FA.
I read that Kolton Miller's five-year rookie contract option is around $10.8MM. Based on growing salaries, that's still a bargain for the Raiders once that rolls around.
Miller had a rough rookie season but he has been one of the few bright spots in recent draft memory. With so many position needs, I was critical of the Raiders taking two tackles in their first three picks that year, Parker being drafted in the 3rd round. PJ Hall was taken in the 2nd round. Thankfully, Miller panned out. Sometimes it seems the Raiders are just throwing darts at a draft board. It shouldn't be that way in a multi-billion dollar organization built around scouting players.
Things are heating up! Free agency and the draft are on us right now. Raiders can make or break!
If I could make any wish for the 2021 draft, I'd ask (beg!) that we don't waste more draft picks on projects and unproven talent. Let's stay conventional and fill voids.
This is a strange year. There are many players that sat out last year due to covid. That makes this draft more difficult than any before it.
NY,
I agree they should exercise the option on Miller and at 10 mm per year I would give him a long term contract. Not only is he good but as you noted about Trent Brown he is available.
I think the Raiders need to take either the best defense player or offensive linemen available with their 1 round pick and the choice between the two should be based on whichever one they don't sign in FA.
Regards,
Sandy
Agreed. I don't think there's any question the Raiders should take the best available player, with very few exceptions.
Last year the Raiders targeted WR, but they still need a #1 WR, and almost every other position, except TE. At the risk of being redundant, Cee Dee Lamb was the guy. Seems like everyone but the Raiders knew that. Lamb more than doubled Ruggs stats last year, on a team without its starting QB.
I hope the Raiders stay more conventional in their choices this year. There's nothing wrong with being boring. Play it safe and select proven talent. Stop trying to outsmart the scouts.
Was just looking the Raiders FA list. Raiders have too many holes to screw around. They have less than a week to re-sign a few key players.
Hankins was one of the top ranked interior linemen in the NFL last year. His ability to clog the middle of the line is invaluable to the Raiders, and they will find that out if they can't replace him.
Good was the most versatile and effective O-lineman the Raiders had. They can't afford to lose Good, especially, in the wake of losing Brown, Jackson and possibly Incognito.
The Raiders OL is a shell of what it was when everyone was healthy.
Booker is the best backup RB the Raiders have had in recent memory. He's a capable starter, which is extremely important.
Agohlor was the Raiders most effective WR last year. Losing him creates a pretty big hole at the position... but there are some options in free agency.
I have mixed feelings about Morrow. The Raiders would have a good LB corp if Morrow was the backup. As it stands, he might be the best LB on the team... which speaks more to the lack of talent at the position.
Nevin Lawson got toasted a few times last year but he was far better than Arnette. Raiders would be wise to retain Lawson, IMO. And/or they need to sign a vet CB.
Derek Carrier. With Waller, Moreau and Carrier, the Raiders have the best TE trio in the league. Why mess with that?
The rest of the Raiders FAs are throwaways. Most notable, Collins. I don't care how well he played in Dallas, Collins sucked on the Raiders.
IMO< the Raiders need to get their house in order. Sure all these guys can be replaced but why create unnecessary holes and add more work to the offseason?
If I'm picking top priority, Hankins and Good. Nothing works if you don't win in the trenches.
NY,
Agree on drafting the best player Ferrell is a classic example of reaching for need as he never should have been drafted at 4.
I like Morrow and at reasonable price it would be great to keep him. You lost me on Lawson they can do much better. Hankins is solid if not spectacular but Dalvin Thomson would be better.
How are you managing day light savings time change? What about Kyle Long?
Sandy
I'm no huge fan of Lawson. Only thinking from a practical standpoint. From what I understand, Lawson's mid-60s percentile of receptions against him is pretty standard in the league. I think there's opportunity to upgrade in free agency but the Raiders need more than one CB addition and Lawson is a serviceable player... probably a better option than Worley.
Lawson had his troubles but he also did some good work which prompted the Raiders to Start him ahead of Arnette, even (and especially) when Arnette came back healthy.
I kinda like the idea of Kyle Long playing for the Raiders. He's a legacy of the largest magnitude. Right? But it's a stopgap.
Setting the clocks forward is a big relief every year, and means Spring is here. More hours of daylight!
Cheers!
Ngakoue I am liking this one it's the team's biggest need. He's only 25 years old never had less than eight sacks in a season. What are you feeling about it NY? Now I'm interested to see how much they had to pay him LOL
Sandy
I just heard two years 25 million for Ngakoue. Great get at that price. Aghlor signed for 2 years 25 million with Pats. He will be missed but that is too high for Raiders
Nice. I like the move to sign a vet defense end. Looking deeper into Ngakoue's stats, he has 18 forced fumbles. That's impressive, and something the Raiders sorely need.
Shame about Agholor but I suspected he was going to get paid. Does Agholor know Tom Brady is no longer the QB in NE? I agree that's too much for the Raiders to pay him but I'd bet they made him a sizable offer. They wanted him to stay.
With Agholor gone, WR is suddenly another position of need. Raiders need a big year from Edwards and the other young WRs. I remember reading the Raiders had extended contracts for Ateman and Doss. What about these guys? They are both prototypical size and have displayed flashes of potential.
The Raiders have some young talent. It's time for someone to step up and make some noise.
NY the more I think about it I am impressed by the signing. Its almost like the Raiders were disciplined in their 2 years only---wow. As far as Agholor don't swat it the Raiders have a number 1 WR his name is Darren Waller. They only need to sign a medium price vet to round out the threesome you mentioned of Edwards, Ruggs and Renfow.
Anyway pass rushers don't grow on trees and it was a huge need. Did you see what the Rams are paying Floyd or Pats to Judon? Seems the Raiders got a great deal.
They need to address the secondary now Sherman? Harris? and a vet or the o line.
Regards
Sandy
Regards
Sandy
I see the Titans signed Autry to a 3-year $21M deal. That's very manageable and would have been a great opportunity for the Raiders to shore up the D-end position. I'd take Autry over Key or Nassib any day!
Also, Booker signed with the Giants. That opens another hole for the Raiders, who now need a legit backup RB.
Lots to do. It seems a little slow and deliberate so far. Not saying that's bad... only my observation.
NY,
Per your point on Autry its interesting to see that he, Shelby Harris and Mario Edwards all signed multi year deals. Even PJ Hall has a roster spot
Regards,
Sandy
Raiders just cut Rodney Hudson. Can somebody please make sense of that?
Hudson is a top 3 center in the league.
After cutting Icognito, Jackson and Hudson, and trading Brown, the Raiders now have the daunting task of rebuilding 4/5 of their offensive line.
This can't be real. No way to spin this move as being smart, or even sane.
This is a 5-alarm fire! I guess the Raiders are determined to make their offensive line as bad as their defensive line.
Hudson was set to make $9.5M this year, which should have been manageable to keep one of the best lineman in the game.
Apparently, the Raiders glacially slow progress to rebuild the team was going too fast. They had to slow things down a bit by dumping what was one of the best O-lines in the league.
This is one of those moves which Gruden shouldn't be forgiven if it doesn't work out. This has bonehead written all over it.
NYR....Raiders cut center Rodney Hudson...so how many runs up the middle went nowhere last season?...just saying, maybe Hudson not the player he used to be.
I CANNOT MAKE SENSE OF THIS! WE HAVE TRADED TRENT BROWN, REPORTEDLY HAVE CUT JACKSON AND NOW HUDSON? Mark Sanchez is reporting that Hudson asked to be released, if that is true, that says a lot to me about the lack of confidence in the leadership. Let me give a history lesson here. Let's keep in mind that the Gabe Jackson cut is not official, and neither is the Incognito cut. The Rodney Hudson cut is official! The captain of the O-Line is GONE!
Barrett Robbins was the last real captain of the O-Line for the Raiders, and the Raiders offense never played well until Rodney Hudson took over. I am not sure this is going to play well for the Raiders. Andre James is not the starting Center, whom Gruden loves; but he has not started, nor has he even played.
In the words of Han Solo as they approached the Death Star in "A New Hope": I've got a baaad feeling about this!
Ghost Ship,
Raiders weren't losing because of Rodney Hudson. Rodney Hudson was one of the most stable players on the team. Running up the middle usually gets you nowhere. Very rarely does a RB go for long yards up the middle. Those yards usually come off-tackle or on end runs. Up the middle runs are hard fought 1-4 yards.
Raiders were losing because of a lack of defense. This further shows me that players no longer want to play for Gruden.
It is very perplexing why they get rid of one of the few true stars they have to save cap money in 2022. it costs them 1.6 mm on the 21 cap to cut him now and then they have no cap hit next year. What are they going to do with all the cap room? Is there some larger move afoot?
Who is the line this year? Miller, Good, Andre James, Incognito, Long? Continuity at o line is huge.
I went from feeling good last night to down in the dumps today. I am really mystified.
Sandy feeling Sad
Guys are the Raiders in financial trouble? This strikes me as purely a financial move.
Sandy
Sandy,
I feel the same, I don't understand the move, but it is worse than you think too. We lose $2 million in cap space cutting him. Oh, and Kyle Long left the building without a contract saying he was going to explore more offers. So Kyle Long is not a shoe-in right now at RT. Our O-Line is currently Miller at LT, LG?, James at C, RG?, Parker at RT. Goode and Incognito are free agents that has yet to be signed. Raiders cut Incognito. We are not 100% sure on the status if Gabe Jackson has been cut or not.
Not only that, we are now finding out that Hudson asked to be released. To me that reflects poorly on the coaches (Gruden, Olsen, and Cable) than the players. This move has given me ZERO confidence in Gruden. ZERO confidence that things are going to change. I am predicting now that we will hear this line sometime next season from Gruden: "We have a new and young offensive line, and we are trying to figure things out. It will pan out, just be patient, and next year we will make a playoff run."
IF the Raiders fail to make the playoffs this year, Mark Davis should fire this ENTIRE staff and sell the team.
Didn't Mark Davis just buy a basketball team. He is not in financial trouble. This move comes from the football operations.
Raiders lost cap space by cutting Hudson (short of some deferral).
This makes no sense.
Ghost Ship, having a pro bowl center is far better than having no center.
This is so unnecessary.
NYR, & Nate,...
I hear what you're saying. off tackle runs for big plays, up middle for tough yards. But Josh Jacobs is more of a between tackles RB looking for the tough yards. When he breaks one, it's usually because he gets into secondary, breaks a tackle or two, and makes a big play.
Running up the middle is not glamorous, but when you do it, you want it to work. Time and again, i watched Raiders run up middle for no gain, or a loss. there just wasn't any push from the interior of Raider O-Line.
Now, what is the plan to replace Hudson, Booker, Aghulor, those are good questions, right now, without answers. This is a make or break year for Gruden, Mayock, and M. Davis.
It's year 4, they can't keep starting over. show the plan, and make it work. otherwise, circle the whole thing down the drain.
Circle down the drain, indeed.
Raiders (Gruden) just dismantled the most effective group of players on the team, the O-line. This is a horrible day for the Raiders.
Hell of an off-season so far, wouldn't ya say?
Derek Carr will be the next to leave because he can't be happy right now.
I said before, IMO, Gruden doesn't have any accountability on team which his boss worships him and just wants to be his friend. If I were qualified to analyze Davis's relationship with Gruden, I would say in some twisted way Mark Davis is getting back at AL for the way he treated him and Gruden. I know that's going out on a limb but somebody come with a better explanation for this insanity... please!
Sandy, I'm with you, I was on a high after the Raiders signed a legit DE.
NY, Ghost, Nate,
Call me crazy but I thought I would try and come up with a little positive spin before I go to bed. Now I am not sugar coating Hudson being cut it is a fucking bitter pill to swallow he was a top 3 center and a great professional. However, is this a bit of a retooling that is needed? Hear me out.
The Raiders were 15-17 the last two years with a collapse down the stretch. Rodney would be 32 and Gabe 30 by the time the season started. 23 million for two guys that age is it worth it on an 8-8 team? Brown clearly wanted out so screw him. I also agree with Ghost the o-line was not opening holes in the second half of the year and that is worth considering.
We are so wounded by 18 years of crap that we consider a playoff loss a major accomplishment. Maybe Gruden wants a super bowl only and looks at the team and concludes we are not close and wants maximum cap space for 2022, a younger roster and to spread out the dollars across the entire team versus having the o-line take up 1/3 of the salary cap.
Gruen recognizes his roster is not properly constructed and is looking to fix it and not waiting. Do any of you think we were much better than 8-8 or only needed a couple of pieces to be a perennial playoff contender. Gruden is a great coach and yeah he has screwed up plenty in terms of personnel in the last 36 months but he is trying to do right by Raider Nation this is not some megalomaniac exercise (he has played the young guys don't forget) and you know it burns deeply in him to not win.
I think when the offseason is all said and done that we might not be taking such a huge step back. Yes the o-line will not be top 3 but it will be good enough and perhaps the D will be improved. In the meantime they can resign Kolton, Carr and continue trying to build a young team that can sustain success for the long haul.
Yes 4 years is a long time for a rebuild and we should be further along. but there will be better days coming for the Raiders. I am not ready to throw in the towel on Arnette, Ruggs, Ferrel or Abrham
Sandy
I appreciate you trying to rationalize it but, unfortunately, the answer is probably more obvious.
Hudson is reported to have asked for his release.
That implies he may have been infected with the same "I no longer want to play for Jon Gurden and the Raiders" bug that plagued Trent Brown... and others.
In fact, Gruden and the Raiders have established a really dangerous pattern of cutting or trading players who express displeasure, starting with Mack. Complain enough and that's all you need to do to get out of LV and sign a lucrative deal someone else.
That's not a good message to send to players.
It's unprofessional and suggests that personalities and egos dictate team policy.
Back to Hudson. Center is the anchor of the offensive line. Age 32 is not old. Hudson has played at a pro bowl level the entire time he was with the Raiders. He won't last long on the market, and the Raiders will look like fools (more than they already do) if they can't replace him.
I will say, one advantage the Raiders still have in free agency, it's that NV has no state income tax. When you make millions each year, that's a serious pay raise over many states... like NY!
49ers have or plan to sign Alex Mack and re-sign Trent Williams. Two guys that should have been at the top of the Raiders list, given the unusual and unnecessary circumstances they currently find themselves.
Let's recap:
Trent Brown - Gone!
Gabe Jackson - Gone!
Richie Incognito - Gone!
Rodney Hudson - Gone!
Danzelle Good - Unrestricted Free Agent
These are arguably the five best players on the team... definitely the best unit. Right?
Are the Raiders actually starting over, from scratch, again?!
Simpson, Parker, Young, James... Unless these guys grew wings, none are competent replacements. Hudson was the guy calling protections. That's a vet skill that some players never master.
IMO, the Raiders are officially in crisis mode!
Moe Moton tweeted last night a video of James playing Tackle, and talking like James is built for the Tackle position with long arms, length, etc; and not a true center. The way he's built, he will struggle at Center. Yet, this is the guy Gruden loves for the position?
Again, Barrett Robbins was the captain of the O-Line during Gruden's first go round, and the Raiders did marvelous things. When they lost him the night before the Super Bowl, and lost him as a human being due to mental illness, the Raiders offense was never right until Rodney Hudson came. Now what? Hudson was the type of hard-working player that Gruden wanted, right? Him asking to be released when he is still at the top of his game, is a marker of no faith in the coaching leadership of this team. It caused Kyle Long to tweet "Just saw some Free Agency news, and WHOA!" This move may have caused the Raiders to lose out on Kyle Long.
If the Raiders do not make the playoffs this year, it should cost Gruden his job as Head Coach, period. He has systematically blew this team up with wasted draft picks, poor Free Agent signings, and releasing/trading the best players the Raiders have.
David Sharpe just re-signed with Washington (you know, the "football team"). He might have been a decent RT candidate for the Raiders.
Meanwhile, Raiders sign John Brown. What position does he play? Exactly! Nobody has heard of this guy. He's a WR. Another mid-level player who the Raiders bargain shopped. He's under 6' and under 180 lbs, so he's not prototypical, and it looks like he's taking a pay cut to sign with the Raiders... haven't confirmed that but that wouldn't be a good sign.
Any WR signing with the Raiders a day after they officially dismantled their O-line smells of desperation.
This isn't the WR help I think we all hoped for.
NY, you never heard of John Brown wherever you being he's had a better career than Aghlor. Do you see what AJ Green sign for this was a great move by the Raiders getting Brown at that price. We're all pissed off about Hudson but don't let it color every move they make this is the type of financially responsible signing but you always say they lack.
Sandy
Good, Hankins, Morrow and Zay Jones are all back in addition to the excellent John Brown signing and a real top tier pass rusher in Yannick. Still lots to do but the sky is not falling.
Chin up guys
Sandy
They just signed incognito and they're getting a 3rd round pick from Arizona for Hudson. Sandy
Hey, Sandy. I've heard of Brown but he's not exactly top shelf. I'm in fantasy FB every year and I can't remember ever seeing Brown's name come up.
Bringing back Hankins is bigger than some might believe. Hankins is a top run stopper in the league. He's the defense's Hudson... the guy the middle that holds it together. If you have access to watch Raiders football, focus on Hankins and watch how he sheds blocks to make tackles.
With Collins gone and Hankins re-signed, the Raiders have improved the defensive interior, IMO.
But it's not going to be easy to get over losing Hudson. All eyes are on Gruden and what he does to make this right. Anything short of competent play at the center position will be unacceptable....
Did we ever figure out what, or for whom the Raiders were saving salary cap money?
Here's a list of viable free agents to spend some money on...
Vikings safety Anthony Harris
Cardinals edge Haason Reddick
Rams cornerback Troy Hill
Chiefs offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz
Seahawks edge Carlos Dunlap
Broncos cornerback A.J. Bouye
Patriots center David Andrews
Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson
I'm winging it but I would guess any of these guys represent an immediate upgrade.
Hey NY judging by the tone of your emails I think you may be feeling a little better about how things are progressing, I am glad to see you spirits up a little. Getting a third round pick for Hudson seems like good value in this market especially cause he wanted his release. Now let's hope they don't draft a Tanner Muse or Lynn Bowden with him.
I trust Cable on Andre James (he is no Hudson but maybe he will be competent). Let's see what happens at right tackle but I am feeling stronger about what I mentioned last night---the Raiders were spending a tremendous amount on the o line and though it was the best unit on the team I am not sure we were getting full value especially with Richie and Trent not playing last year.
Of your list if they sign Schwartz and Anthony Harris I am ready to say the team is better than last year on paper.
I think Brown for Agholor is a wash talent wise but saves close to 8 million this year. Anyway let's remember who our #1 WR is: his name is Darren Waller. He is Jupiter and the WR on the team are moons revolving around him
Regards,
Sandy
Trading Hudson to Arizona is better than releasing him. This means we do not lose $$ on the cap, and we get value in return. Also, don't forget that Incognito can also play Center. James is built more as a OT, and I think would struggle inside; but we will see, I guess.
Raiders signing John Brown is pretty solid, as he is a speedy and consistent veteran WR that is built like Ruggs. So maybe, he will be a good mentor to Ruggs and help him develop. He has topped 1,000 yards in his career twice, including in the 2019 season. Had 33 catches for 458 yards and three TDs in nine games (eight starts) last season.
Raiders just signed Solomon Thomas for one year $5 million. Also looking at free agent DT Quinton Jefferson (Bills).
I hope Thomas is not another Collins. He has underperformed since being drafted.
Raiders have been busy. That's for sure.
Still waiting to see where all the money is going to be spent. Just seems like they still have a lot to spend after losing Brown, Collins, Joyner, Williams, Hudson, and others.
Raiders have been trying to trade Gabe Jackson since at least last year's draft. They finally accomplished that, getting a 5th round draft pick from Seattle. The Raiders now have 8 picks. Here they are....
Round 1, Pick No. 17
Round 2, Pick No. 48
Round 3, Pick No. 79 (ARI)
Round 3, pick No. 80
Round 4, Pick No. 121
Round 5, Pick No. 162 (MIA)
Round 5, Pick No. 167 (SEA)
Raiders are stacked in the 3rd round, just as they were last year. My concern about the draft remains the same, hoping the Raiders don't treat any pick in this draft as a throwaway pick that they can draft a "project."
Last year Raiders picked Bowden with a third round pick, then released him before the season. That's an epic failure. Really two failures. 1) they drafted him, and 2) they released him before even giving their unusual decision a chance. Bowden played for the Dolphins and caught 28 passes in 10 games as a situational player. FYI, that's 2 more receptions than Henry Ruggs III had as a full-time starter in 2020.
Raiders need to be smarter than they been.
ESPN Bill Barnwell ranked the best FA moves and Raiders had two in top ten.
Sandy
4. EDGE Yannick Ngakoue to Las Vegas
The deal: Two years, $26 million with the Raiders
It's hard to get a good deal on a player at his peak after a career season, so if a team wants to somehow come away with a bargain in free agency, it has to be willing to take on some risk. With Ngakoue, the risk is that the Raiders are getting a player coming off two relatively disappointing seasons. The former Jags standout started his career by averaging just under 10 sacks and 30 quarterback knockdowns over his first three seasons. Over the past two, however, he has dropped off to an average of eight sacks and 13 knockdowns.
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If you want to argue that Ngakoue is a below-average run defender, you can do that. Frankly, in a league in which teams are passing more than ever before, that means less and less. Teams are paying their edge defenders to rush the passer, and when you consider Ngakoue's five-year career on the whole, he has been effective doing that. Since entering the league, he ranks 12th in sacks and 14th in knockdowns. His pass-rushing numbers over that time frame are virtually identical to those of Frank Clark, who cost the Chiefs first- and second-round picks in a trade and is on a five-year, $104-million deal.
Clark is the better player, but the difference in talent and performance is way smaller than the difference in price. Ngakoue is still only 25 and doesn't have any sort of notable injury history. This deal either pays him $21 million for one year or $26 million for two. It's a key addition for the Raiders, whose 4% sack rate since trading away Khalil Mack ranks last in the NFL. With former Jaguars coach Gus Bradley coming to town as Las Vegas' new defensive coordinator, a return to form from Ngakoue could finally push a moribund Raiders defense in the right direction.
Here is the other, NY you said you did not know much about Brown this may help, way better than Agholor at 12 mm
3. WR John Brown to Las Vegas
The deal: One year, $3.8 million with the Raiders
One important thing I look for in a contract is a plausible way for a player to outplay his deal. Some contracts have all the upside baked in, where the team is paying a player with a limited track record like he's going to be the best possible version of himself for the majority of his new deal. There are rare exceptions (like Za'Darius Smith to the Packers), but those contracts almost always never work out. This year, the deals for Leonard Floyd (Rams) and Trey Hendrickson (Bengals) might fit into that category.
With Brown, the Raiders are paying a pittance for a guy who was a legitimate WR1 in 2019 with a then-inconsistent quarterback in Josh Allen. Brown averaged 9.2 yards per target and 70.7 receiving yards per game, and while those were outlier numbers for his career, that sort of production would come in closer to $15 million or so per season on the open market. We know he has that sort of upside in his back pocket.
Last season, with Stefon Diggs taking over as the primary wideout and Allen developing into a superstar, Brown's production was down. His efficiency, though, remained similar. He averaged 8.8 yards per target and 13.9 yards per reception. Injuries essentially limited him to eight games, but he topped 70 yards in five of them. If the Raiders get the 2020 version of Brown, he'll outplay this deal. If they get the 2019 version of Brown, he'll be one of the biggest bargains of the season. He should take over the Nelson Agholor role for the Raiders.
Unfortunately, all that tells us is the Raiders got a good deal. That doesn't suggest he's a better WR option than Agholor, who only pulled in about 50 to 60 receptions himself while sharing good chemistry with Derek Carr... something that's not automatic.
Moreover, Brown kinda got lost on a team whose other WRs outshined him. This is the guy we're moving into the #1 slot for the Raiders?
I know, I know, Waller is the #1 receiver. But if the Raiders don't field WRs that can get open and catch passes, Waller will get stuffed by good defenses.
I'm not down on Brown. I'm just hoping the Raiders get more than their money's worth.
Raiders signed FA RB Kenyan Drake to replace Booker. The kid's stats look like starter stats. 239 carries for 955 yards and 10 touchdowns. 4 yards a carry and 10 TDs. That's very respectable!
I think we need a vet center and a RT. These should be top priorities right now.
Floria and Simms were discussing that the Raiders might have dumped the O-line for financial (salary cap) reasons, which lends to Sandy's theory. The idea being, they will need to pay Kolton Miller in the coming year(s) and might not want all that money tied up in the O-line.
That said, it's not this year, and trading Hudson was flat out a mistake.
This is Year 4 of the Gruden experiment. Gruden rebuilding the offensive line in Year 4 is the equivalent to thumbing his nose at all of us... including Derek Carr.
NY don't you think we need a FS before C if not RT?
Regards,
Sandy
Okay signing Drake pisses me off in some ways as much as the Hudson trade. This has to be a Gruden passion signing. It stinks of some guy Gruden envisions as a swiss army knife in his offense and did not care that he is overspending for a bak up at a position of little need. Given Lynn Bowden did not workout I guess he moved on to Drake to fill the role.
Don't get me wrong Drake is a very good player but we have Jacobs and having a backup RB being paid 5.5 is insane. Not to mention its the end of Richard.
I am willing to withhold final judgement and be positive till the offseason is over but based on the moves to date and so many one year contracts that Gruden is obviously stockpiling young players and clearing cap space for 2022. Its not a terrible strategy by any means as the Raiders are one of the youngest teams in the NFL but it certainly seems like a step back for 2021. Perhaps two years of second half collapses make it the right move.
Sandy
Sandy,
I agree this offseason is so far a step backwards. Dismantling the O-line has serious ramifications. I don't care who Gruden thinks he's grooming to be the next Center, it's a downgrade in 2020 and maybe longer.
Compound that with needing a G and RT, and you have the makings of a disaster season. It will take skill and luck by Gruden/Mayock to navigate this one.
Meanwhile, I see the Drake signing as replacement for Booker (no effect on Richard). After dumping half the team, the Raiders must have ample salary cap to spend (or get fined if they don't). Jacobs needs help. He can't handle a 16-game season without a solid backup, or counterpart. Richard is not that guy.
Regarding your last comment, please don't withhold judgement. Let it rip!
IMO, Gruden setting up 2021 to get to 2022 is unacceptable. What the hell has he been doing the last three years? Time is up!
since when has it been a winning system to keep being CHEAP?!? Was it because of the Patriots' dynasty? The parity system?
I don't know how we still think it ever really worked if one team has been to nine superbowls in under 30 years.
Oh, its' because of GOOD decisions and Tom Brady. So no other teams could build a winning product using other ways?
When the 49ers, Steelers and Cowboys had dynasties you saw the talent, work and staffs that won games. Now, you're a madman or strange if you want to spend a lot on players and coaches.
The Raiders just look plain dull, they have gone NFL and aren't even trying to fool Raidernation about it. Losing for nine years just got Raidernation believing anything the NFL .
Marcus Mariota would be a huge insurance policy but the Raiders are like the A's now, don't spend to win. Keep things cheap and expect fans to keep coming.
I can't think of ANY team in ANY pro sports league that suddenly went from Championship to worst over a 10 year period and not CLEARLY show why. The Raiders were not the worst in personnel, coaches, GM/ scouting, morale and in fact, had some of the best of all those things.
In a mediocre league, suddenly can't even win 1 division title over a nine year period.
Even when strange things like having Randy Moss with QBs' like A. Brooks and K. Collins both who never had personnel like the Raiders but couldn't win or the strange loss to the Colts('10) and Teebow's Broncos('11) its' just bad decisions that caused an 18 year slump.
They had the talent to beat the Chargers at least one season and win at least one division title.
Why does PARITY work almost 31 other teams but not the Raiders who had more than enough talent and good coaching?
No doubt the Raiders have defied the odds.
We tend to look at moves individually and try to rationalize them. For example, the Mack trade was easy to rationalize because of the huge contract. But that move was demoralizing to fans, players and coaches, e.g., Carr! Guenther! And the Raiders still haven't figured out how to pressure the QB without Mack.
IMO, trading Hudson could be even worse than the Mack debacle. This one is tougher to make sense. Hudson wasn't due massive salary, and he's well regarded as a top center in the league.
Let's all remember this moment when the Raiders new center hikes the ball over Carr's head, or fumbles the exchange at the LOS, or calls the wrong protections and gives up an easy sack. We take for granted those things that Hudson did so well.
Globally, the Raiders have been a mess for too long. Gruden's honeymoon is over. He can't keep blowing up the team ever year, throwing shit against the wall and hoping it sticks.
To be sure, the Raiders have just about as many holes in 2021 as they've had in any year in Gruden's return. Many are self-inflicted wounds. That speaks for itself and is perhaps why even parity is an unattainable goal for the Raiders.
We all know Derek Carr is not the same QB when he's under pressure (not many QBs are). Setting him up for failure is not a good look. If Gruden doesn't have an answer at center....
At some point, there has to be accountability. Right? Otherwise, we're all chumps.
Geno Aktins is available, at a potentially big pay cut.
Raiders moved too fast to spend $5.0 mil on a player who has underperformed.
Looks like Raiders may have signed TX center, Nick Martin, who will compete with James to replace Hudson. So we replaced a Pro Bowl center with the better of these two. Hopefully, neither will fumble the snap and can open lanes and protect Carr.
Bengals just released their starting RT for salary cap reasons. Maybe he's an option for the Raiders.
Joyner signed with the Jets to play safety. That makes sense.
For what it's worth, Raiders Team captains included Carr, Hudson, Erik Harris and Wilbur. I think all but Carr were kicked to the curb. So much for leadership. I hope this wasn't Gruden's twisted way of telling folks he's the boss (in Al Davis fashion).
I actually like the Drake signing. Our running game the last 4 years has started strong, but tailed off at the end of the season. Jacobs' first 2 seasons, he has played through injuries, and has not been as effective in the 2nd half of the season. Don't get me wrong, I love Jacobs, but would love to have him for the long run too. Drake gives us a 1-2 punch at RB, much like Wheatley/Garner did for Gannon.
There was a lot of rumbling in Raider Nation to go after Lindsay after Doncos cut him, but we needed a big back like Drake for short yard situations, etc. I have a feeling that they are going to split time.
I think we need a FS and OT. Andre James is who the Raiders like at Center, which is why they traded away Hudson. Still not a fan of the move, but he and Gabe would not restructure this year, and get a bigger pay day next season when the Salary Cap will increase. I think our first pick in the draft is going to be Dillon Radunz (RT, North Dakota St) if they don't sign a vet-RT like DJ Fluker or Mitchell Swartz.
I'd love to see us go after Anthony Harris or Malik Hooker (FS), TY Hilton (WR), Casey Hayward or Xavier Rhodes (CB).
As far as defense, this has been a great offseason. As far as offense, not so much. So far, I grade our off-season a solid C. I love that we signed Drake, Quinton Jefferson, Yannick Ngakoue, Solomon Thomas, John Brown signing was amazing, and I think is the most underrated signing of the offseason. They also signed Nick Martin (C, Texans) so that position will not automatically go to James. Of course I like our re-signs too: Morrow, Hankins (not too excited about, but now we have DT's that can create QB pressure), Zay Jones, Denzelle Good, Incognito, Lester Cotton SR, and David Irving.
I think right now our O-Line shapes out: Miller (LT), Incognito (LG), Martin/James (C), Cotton Sr (RG), Good (RT). I think once they draft Radunz, Good will move to RG, and Cotton will be #2 behind Incognito and Good.
We will see who else they bring in, but definitely need veteran leadership in the DB group. Just Win, BABY!
Nate, no offense but I think you're ready the tea leaves incorrectly. Hudson didn't turn down a request to restructure his contract, he asked for his release. There is some underlying issue there that we don't know about. Hudson was a captain and a leader on this team, so it's not business as usual. Raiders just lost an elite center.
Not too excited about Hankins? I don't know what I have to do to convince you guys that Hankins is among the top run defenders in the league. Hankins is a rock in the middle of the Raiders D line. Why do you think they keep re-signing him?
But I have some bad news for you. Thomas and Jefferson may not be upgrades along the interior in terms of pass rush. Soloman especially has been an underachiever.
If I was a fan of a team at the receiving end of guys like Hudson, Jackson, Agholor and even Trent Brown, I'd be pretty excited. Losing all these guys at once is gut punch for the Raiders. You can argue Brown looks good on paper, but we already know Agholor had good chemistry with Carr. That's never automatic.
If the Raiders could sign a guy like Anthony Harris, I could get a little excited. But ever since Hudson was traded, I've been down on this process. Center is too important.
I agree about Drake. Jacobs can't be the only back. With Booker gone, Drake is a welcome addition. He's a good receiver too. Raiders shouldn't miss a step in the run game, unless they fail at the o-line....
Eagles signed Anthony Harris to one-year deal for $5M. That should have been the Raiders. Safety is easily the Raiders weakest position right now and Harris was probably the best option out there.
Unless the Raiders sign a vet safety, the safety position will 100% have to be there first pick in the draft. They will need an immediate starter-level college player.
RT will probably be next because, again, absent signing a vet RT, the Raiders will need a plug and play RT from the college draft.
Correction: Vikings signed Harris.
I'm pretty sure the Raiders have ample cap space to pursue a significant FA.
Here are some of the best remaining free agents the Raiders should be looking at:
-Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller
-Broncos cornerback A.J. Bouye
-Chiefs offensive tackle Eric Fisher
-Steelers offensive tackle Alejandro Villanueva
-Jets cornerback Brian Poole
-Seahawks linebacker K.J. Wright
-Chargers edge Melvin Ingram (what a huge upgrade that would be)
-Colts cornerback Xavier Rhodes
-49ers cornerback Richard Sherman (this makes sense and maybe Sherman would play FS).
-Bucs receiver Antonio Brown (kidding!)
Raiders have failed to draft successfully at the CB position but there are several vet CBs available. There are no top level FA safeties still available that I'm aware, so I expect this to be Raiders #1 draft pick!
Meet Jonathan Hankins.
Anyone who might think Hankins is just another plug-in that the Raiders eventually need to upgrade might want to look a little closer. This snippet from Kenny King Jr is a consist analysis of Hankins around sports media... including PFF which has the stats to back it up.
"Johnathan Hankins arrived in Oakland via the waiver wire in 2018 and quickly developed into a force on the defensive line. Hankins has been the most dominant run-stopper on the Raiders since joining the team and has solidified his role as one of the best nose tackles in the National Football League."
Getting to the QB isn't the only thing D-linemen do. And Hankins often gets pressure.
NY, I think Hankins is solid but not spectacular he's a good leader and a good Raider. I don't care about sacks from a nt but I don't know if you're aware he only had one tackle for a loss last year he's a good plugger in the middle but not more.
Sandy
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