March 12, 2008
Where the Oakland Raider offseason stands: Raider X opines
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My trusty sidekick and resident draftnik Raider X has decided to weigh in on his thoughts on the Raiders offseason moves including the signings of Gibril Wilson, Kwame Harris, and Javon walker. He also weighs in on the Tommy Kelly contract. Raider X also brings his wit and wisdom to discuss who the Oakland Raiders should take in the forthcoming draft.
Where the Offseason Stands
By Raider X
Special to Thoughts from the Dark Side
Sorry for my absence as of late, not that many of you care. I am getting to spring break time of the college semester. For those wondering, I am taking no writing courses. I took two during the last semester. I wrote a great paper on Anna Nicole Smith for one class. Only in college right?
I just wanted to check in with some thoughts and opinions.
First off, I like the signings of Javon Walker and Gibril Wilson. As St. Patrick Patterson pointed out in a prior blog, I suggested the signing of Wilson. Why? I thought Wilson would be great at the Strong Safety position for the Raiders. He played in a similar system in New York and showed to be good against the pass and run. From what I have seen of him, He is a good tackler, a decent hitter and is good in coverage. Maybe finally the Raiders can have a FS only cover half the field instead of all of it. The money was a bit shocking but considering the way free agent signings are headed dollar wise, in a few years, it could be a steal. Here is a highlight package of Wilson.
The signing of Walker was a necessity. Having only Ron Curry, Johnnie Lee Higgins and Chris McFoy would be the worst WR core of all time. The Raiders need a few more players there, even after the signing of Walker. While Walker and Curry knees have been operated on as much as Joan Rivers’ face, it’s worth the gamble. I mean who else were they gonna sign, Randy Moss?Up next is Kwame Harris, or as Niners fans would say, the Niners Robert Gallery. Has Harris been a bust? Does Chad Johnson punch coaches? Lincoln Kennedy was a bust with the Falcons. Not saying Kwame Harris is going to be the next Oval Office but he can’t be any worse than Cornell Green or Barry Sims. Besides, how many offensive coordinators has he had in SF? Give him a chance before you bash him.Jerry Porter is a Jacksonville Jaguar. Let’s all take a deep breath and say good riddance. Sure he was a productive player. He might go down in NFL History as the best WR never to get 1,000 yards in a season. He’s also a huge pain in the ass that is only going to have about 3 good games a year and be average the rest of the games. Good luck and in stealing a quote from an MTV show, “Next”. Two other guys I would look at in FA are Bryant Johnson and maybe DJ Hackett. In a statement that should make me Captain Obvious, the Raiders still need some speed (with hands) outside.Tommy Kelly got a big deal as well. What can I say, TK plays at a premium position and is very versatile and is young. Sounds like a good deal to me. People pay way too much attention to what a guy’s deal could be worth compared to what the base salaries and bonuses are. I wouldn’t fret over it. If the Raiders handed that money over to the Big Terd, then I would have been a wee bit upset. The Raiders still need another big run stuffer or two.Quinn Gray and Kevin Carter are in for visits lately. Sign me up for both. I remember when there was talk about trading a first round pick for Carter. The Raiders need another QB and preferably one with experience. I know QB isn’t a need for the draft but here is a thought process for you. The Raiders drafted Michael Bush knowing he was going to have to sit out a year with an injury. If I were the Raiders, I would look VERY HARD at drafting QB Dennis Dixon of Oregon on day two of the draft. He is a tremendous athlete and a helluva QB. I would dare say had he been healthy and impressed in the post season workouts, he might be a first round pick in this year’s mediocre QB draft. He needs work physically and mechanically, but would be worth the risk.
Much has changed since I talked about the Raiders needs. I thought the Raiders would have been pretty set with Burgess, Jay Richarson, Tommy Kelly, and Chris Clemons at DE. Well, Clemons is gone, Kelly is a DT. DE is a huge need now and with the copycat mentality of the league, pass rushing DE’s are a big deal. There are two great ones in the draft with Chris Long and Vernon Gholston. It seems hoping Chris Long dropping to #4 is a hopeless endeavor. Gholston is this years Mario Williams and is soaring up the boards, there is even talk now of him going #1 since he would be a hybrid player DE/OLB in the Miami ¾. I watched Gholston’s highlight package on the four letter network and I noticed on every sack he had, he just ran around the guy across the line. Teach this guy some moves and wow. Speaking of which, Al, send a 2nd day pick for Jason Taylor. I know it won’t happen but at least they wouldn’t have to worry about whoever the Raiders LT would be playing against him and it fills a hole.
Offensive tackle is a great position in this year’s draft, almost as good as RB. I’d love for the Raiders to not have to take Jake Long at pick 4 but be able to land someone like Sam Baker or Ryan Clady somehow. I like Jake Long, I see him as a prospect, as others do to, that he is between Joe Thomas and Levi Brown. If both DE’s and McFadden are gone, I think he is the pick.
DT is a need position definitely and Ellis or Dorsey might be worthwhile picks. I am not sold on either. Dorsey is better but his health issues scare me almost to say I wouldn’t consider him. I just hope that if the Raiders draft him, it’s because he has been deemed that his past history of injuries because the Raiders medical staff didn’t miss anything. (See Matt Stinchcomb). Ellis has almost been rising as fast as Gholston, but is it because he has done great in workouts (no) and postseason games (yes) or because people are scared of Dorsey’s legs?
I will get into the draft a bit more later on. I just wanted to finish up on some off the field thoughts. I would first like to say I am sick and tired of the negative media reports about the Raiders. The childish cheap shots at Al Davis are pretty pathetic. The Raiders have had many money problems over the last few years and cap problems left over from the Bruce Allen years. I don’t see people taking pot shots at Ralph “Oh, Canada” Wilson or Carl “Last playoff win was when we had a liked president, ER was a new show and Arnold Schwarzenegger was just an actor” Peterson. It hasn’t helped with the coaching changes but there is only way to shut them up, win some freaking games.
The last part I don’t like is the alleged report of JaMarcus Russell being close to three bills. Hey Don Banks of Si.com. Have you actually seen JaMarcus Russell at this weight? Of course not, you are using some anonymous source who says this. Why don’t you start practicing some responsible journalism instead of just going by what someone who you don’t have the balls to reveal his/her name saying this disproved story?
Jeeze you would think he was some blogger who hides behind some pseudo-fake identity.
Oh wait.
BTW, nice avatar DarthRaider666 on raiderfans.net
Raider X is a friend and contributer to Thoughts from the Dark Side. He can be reached by sending up the X signal or through his myspace site. If you would like to contribute to Thoughts from the Dark Side email me at mvnraider at yahoo.com.
Discussion
37 Comments on "Where the Oakland Raider offseason stands: Raider X opines"
#1
Posted by Where the offseason stands thus far - Oakland Raiders Forum | Message Board - Where the Raider Natio, March 12, 2008 12:33 AM
[...] the offseason stands thus far Thoughts from the Dark Side | MVN - Most Valuable Network ª Blog Archive ª Where the Oakland Raider ... __________________ "While there is a lower class, I am in it, and while there is a [...]
#2
Posted by H, March 12, 2008 5:04 AM
I think Miami is the key for Chris Long. Current scuttlebutt in Atlanta has them looking at Matt Ryan and the St. Louis Neutered Sheep need a left tackle desperately, so I feel they are looking at Jake Long.
But, what do I know. I actually like Al Davis.
#3
Posted by antispy3, March 12, 2008 6:10 AM
Miami picks either Matt Ryan or Chris Long. Jake Long goes to St. Louis, regardless. Atlanta picks whatever player Miami leaves on the board. This leaves the Raiders with either a clear path to Gholston or a trade down with, hopefully, the Jets. N.Y. picks Darren McFadden, whom have spent heavily upon the Ol in free agency. 2008's feerless RB tandem (Adrian Peterson/Chester Taylor).
Dispite all indications KC has to have a DT to upgrade their DLine. Glenn Dorsey goes here. Therefore, Oaktown gets both Vernon Gholston @ #6 and an additional first day draft pick. Hopefully a second rounder (Al could sweeten the pot by including a mid to late second day pick in 2009).
Thus the Raiders can add an OL prospect in the second round (if Branden Albert is available) and, hopefully, three picks later choose, perhaps, Devin Thomas from Michigan State.
Remenber these two names; Eddie Royal, WR from Va Tech and Jerome Simpson, WR from Coastal Carolina. Royal may be pound for pound, inch for inch the best package currently streaking under the draft radar.
Simpson may prove to be this years Jacoby Jones, who made a significant special teams splash for Houston in 2007. OBTW; Jones attended tiny Lane College yet was highly touted last year. Due to the relative deep crop of available WR's in this draft both may drop further than they would if available last year.
#4
Posted by Rolni, March 12, 2008 6:13 AM
It's a great article...
I agree with you in almost everything...
I don't want Dennis Dixon...i mean he is a great guy, but we don't need young QB...we have our franchise QB in Russell i think we should get a veteran to back him up...we have enough needs for the draft...
I think after the 2 DE's we shouldn't draft RUNDMC...we don't need him...Fargas,Bush,Rhodes will do more than enough for us...if the two DE's gone i would like a trade down (i know Al never does it but it would make sense) if no trade than we should choose Jake Long ahead of McFadden...If the Long's and Gholston is gone then we are in trouble but i think one of them will be there hopefully one of the DE's
#5
Posted by Brian, March 12, 2008 7:02 AM
Trading down to #6 and Ghoulston might already be gone. I tink he may be a steal at #4 and will be a pro bowler within 3 years. He's a monster. throw a 2nd round pick and Jordan to Miami for Taylor. Trade Fabian Washington for anything and add some WR depth. I would love to Dixon taken on the 2nd day.
#6
Posted by Aaron, March 12, 2008 7:50 AM
Don banks hates the raiders because he is friends with that nitwit DR Z who also writes for that gossip magazine Sports illustraited. I heard thru an unnamed source that Ken Stabler banged Dr Z's chick back in the day. The whole staff at SI hates the raiders. Look at the hatchett job they wrote about AL a couple of years ago. The Raiders could trade a 5th round pick to detroit for Roy Williams and SI would find a way to
turn it negative. The media is not held accountable for anything they say.
#7
Posted by RaiderBlues, March 12, 2008 10:32 AM
Dixon on the second day would be a steal! I don't know of his pursuit of Baseball but it would brilliant to suit him in Silver and Black! We have JR and he should be a stand out in the NFL but everyone needs 2-3 QB's depending on injuries. Dixon can flat out play! Get Long and look for a WR in the second round. Tall / speed / hands or take the Cal midget. I wanted Dorsey but all this talk of his health is scary. Get the D off the field on 3d down and we're onto something. If Walker can stretch the field = we're onto something. More of Justin Fargas attitude and more of Michael Bush being healthy.
Just Win Baby!
#8
Posted by Loadyz53, March 12, 2008 11:09 AM
Good article. I look at our draft this way: There are about 8 good OL, and about the same at DE, maybe a couple less. We signed Kelly, and already have Sands, Shaw (if you count him), and Warren at DT. We let go of Brayton and Clemons, while retaining Burgess and Richardson at DE. We let go of Sims, but signed Harris and re-signed Green at OT, with Henderson who has yet to make the dressed team on sunday still lurking.
So with all that taking place, it seems as though we have set our selves up to get one of each (DE and OT) in the first 2 rounds. Has never sounded like Henderson will make it at OT, so he might be a guard. Green is ancient, and Harris transferred over from a Gallery type reputation in SF. So I love the thought on Baker in the second, but would also embrace Harvey or Jackson at DE in the 2nd as well, if we go OT first.
Anyway, Gholston, Long, or Long in the 1st, with either Clady, Williams, Baker, Harvey, or Jackson in the 2nd. I can live with any of them, so long as we get these 2 positions early.
#9
Posted by Loadyz53, March 12, 2008 11:11 AM
Try to get a 3rd round pick somehow, and take a quality receiver that should be there still, and we are on our way. If not, the 4th might be too long to wait on a good WR.
#10
Posted by Loadyz53, March 12, 2008 11:27 AM
Anyway, just hope we don't end up with a Kicker in the first and I will be fine. I think that the positions available at the top suit both our highest and moderate of needs. So if Al goes DT, RB, or WR it will still fill a need, just won't be the highest need position. If we stay within these boundaries, I think the draft will be successful. I know Kelly or Jackson would be the only 1st round receivers, but we all know #4 is too high for either.
So, if Al picks Jackson in the first, who will freak?
Not me, I have given my take, it still fills a need (yeah I would be disapointed, but not freak out).
#11
Posted by RaiderX, March 12, 2008 11:39 AM
First off I don't consider myself a draftnik, I am not someone who puts together rankings and mock drafts of other teams. I do watch alot of draft stuff, read about it on the net and watch alot of college football. I hate the term draftnik lol.
Second for trading, I would try to deal Fabian Washington and Stu Schweigart for a 2nd and 2 3rds. (If Doug Jolley and Blowtime Buchanon can net that via trade, I don't see why these two guys can't) The only problem with that, much like 2005, is Al is going to want to get guys who can replace them. I would also strongly consider ransoming Andrew Walter for a pick.
#12
Posted by LaRaider70, March 12, 2008 1:35 PM
RaiderX I agree with you and think we should look into trading Schweigart and Andrew Walter for 2nd & 3rd round picks respectively. I think F. Washington is too valuable for us to let go and Bowie still needs to be developed. If you look at the last couple yrs of Free Agency they make a killing. So we need them both but definitely need Fabian as insurance in case one of our primary CB's get hurt and can use his skills on nickel, dime packages and zone coverages. I must say I prefer the taller CB's like Namdi & Routt. If both Gholston, C.Long & a healthy Dorsey(Hell I would even take the chance of him coming on the field later to fully recover) are gone we should trade down if no trade can be had then we pick up McFadden.
#13
Posted by Crazylegs Finegan, March 12, 2008 2:53 PM
we need to go to a 3/3/5 to start with. they will never no if we are bltzg all the time or laying in wait. keep 2 ss as bltzrs and run stuffers. always have 8 in the box. corners man up. fs is a floater as he should be. we have fast de lb and ss. all this guys are hybrids. use them as such. if we don't get Gholston or J.long then trade down and get extra picks and #1 round next year. The reason Walter is not #2 qb is because they had no line to protect him. If you don't protect the qb and the recievers don't get to there routs and not catch the ball, you have nothing. The key to our offence is to protect the qb for at lest 4 sec. Now that is a lot in these times but, we need to protect the qb.Mccown was running for his life most of the time even with our zone blocking. Our running game is very good. Don't forget we have a runninng back that possibly could have won the Hysman. Michael Bush. You just can't run Fargus like we did last year all the time. He will break down physically. Mix it up. We have 2 great te's. use them. Andrew is a good qb but needs time. his got a great arm. it all starts in the trenches. we must think about the trenches first. Remember! Gholston de/olb or Jake Long. Howe's boy will be gone by the time it's our turn. Ellis as nt would be a stretch in a 3/4. If I can see and call what is going on from where I sit. And I mean both sides of the ball. You know damn well one of the 31 teams can see it also.We need to get ALL team in there A.S.A.P. to learn and feel what is happening during a game. If we don't get any of the 3 guys that I mentioned, we need to trade down and get guys that are very very pissed off about not getting in on the 1ST round. They have something to prove to everybody. HELL! If I was getting that kind of money I would damn near live at that facility. The mind set needs to be put there by AL & KIFF and the rest of the staff. WE need to show on films of the winning teams we have had through the years. If these players are not showing up at that facility and working like the rest of us then trade them or cut them. We need 53 angry men that have something to prove. We need smart men so what happen to them on the field doesn't happen 3 times in a row. Matt Ryan would be a good pick up in the latter rounds if he is still there. He is a smart qb. Now J.R. If it is true that he is 300 lbs ther must be a clause in his contract that would void it. The play book is about 12" thick. Learn it like you were fighting for you life. That is a huge man and I hope he is learning that play book. I work 50 to 60 hrs a week at what I do. Give Fabian one more year and trade Stu. Sorry Stu, I like you but, you can't tackle. Either you are always out of position or you can't play at this level. I sure hope that Russel is the guy. I wanted an offensive lineman. You can't blame Walter for all thows sacks. It all starts in the trenches. Offence and the DE. Protect you QB and if the wide outs are covered then breck off and help your QB. F##KING Porter just stood there and did nothing to help his QB. Trenches Trenches Trenches
#14
Posted by LDizzle, March 12, 2008 2:57 PM
Raider X I couldn't agree more on Dennis Dixon. GREAT call! He was the Heisman front runner last year until he blew out his knee. No other player in College football was even close at that point according to many analysts. I would love to see him in Oakland if he is still available in the 4th or 5th round.
Raider X: Danny Clark is also visiting today.
Loady and some other short bussers need to stop throwing in RB as a position of need. Don't be stupid. It really blows me away that so many people think that we can just upgrade every single position. We have a thousand yard back in Fargas, A guy that would have been a high first rounder without his injury in Bush, and a guy who had over 100 yards in a SB win in Rhodes. Not to mention we run the ZB scheme which means we don't need a superstar RB to succeed in it. I think we are good there. And to put RB above needs like WR, DE and OL? Supremely stupid.
#15
Posted by loadyz53, March 12, 2008 3:18 PM
Raider X,
Like your thoughts on it. Yeah me neither, no draftnik here. I voice what I consider common sense, as you have done in your article. Each pick should fill some sort of need, and if we trade, like you said, we must replace that guy as well. If I get my hopes up for one guy, I will be pissed off if we do not draft him, so I tend to look at a broad spectrum of guys who could contribute early.
LDizzle,
We have a system that produced a 1000 yard back, not a good back, there is a difference. However, I am as excited as everyone else to see what Bush can do as well. But to discount the position based on current roster spots does not make sense either. Look past tommorrow, how many more years do we get from Rhodes? He is only on contract through next year, and after taking a pay cut he is likely gone. In other words, we have 2 running backs after next season. So, like I said, it is not a HIGH priority, it is a moderate priority. Do I want a RB? No. Do I think it is possible? Yes. Unless you have a magic ball, you have no idea either, it is all assumption, which is why you can only make an ass of yourself in the process as well.
#16
Posted by loadyz53, March 12, 2008 3:21 PM
Actually, Ldizzle, I think you are stupid for focusing on one position and one person. I think that shows how much you don't know, not what you do know. So good luck convincing me on anything, because your research is awful. Have a hard time beliveing anyone besides OakFoSho listens to you.
#17
Posted by loadyz53, March 12, 2008 3:29 PM
Just signed Drew Carter (WR). So I will actually freak out now if Davis goes WR in the 1st or 2nd. Before this signing, it meant we would draft one somewhere, but now we are flexible on the position.
#18
Posted by loadyz53, March 12, 2008 3:38 PM
Just a note, I predicted Russell, OL, TE last year 1, 2, 3. Look there, we got Russell, TE, OL. I am not all knowing Dizzle, but I am not crazy either.
#19
Posted by LDizzle, March 12, 2008 3:54 PM
Wow loady for thinking I "make and ass out of myself" and "good luck convincing (you) of anything" and "hard time believing anyone besided OakFoShow listens to you" you sure spent a lot of time commenting on what I said. It would seem you listen quite a lot. Not very well however because I already pointed out that the Raiders system doesn't need a superstar at RB. I am simply amazed and incensed by the fact that I keep seeing fans popping up saying that the Raiders need Running Backs when they have them coming out their ears and GLARING positions of need like DE, WR, DT, and OT to worry about first. Our runningbacks are more than fine. So much so that the Raiders will be cutting some dead weight at the position. And hopefully not adding any except perhaps a low round steal or an add on in a draft day trade for more players.
I am sorry you feel singled out and attacked loadyz. But you are the one that said it so you I responded to you in that instance. And our need for RB is what I disagreed with so that is what I talked about. That makes sense right? I am really glad we had this talk.
#20
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 4:08 PM
Aha, I'm not sure but it just seems that.......
Loadyz53 = Chris
They sound the same, they look the same with the multiple posts, and Loadyz53 tried to use the same argument on LDizzle that I used against Chris. Chris (Loadzy53) always tries to push Tom Zibikowski, and Jordy Nelson as late round picks cause he is obsessed with them. Then Loadzy53 (Chris) accuses LDizzle of focusing on one position blah blah blah. I personally have never seen Loadzy53 before, but he seems to have done a lot of reading here in the past. This, along with the eerie similarities between Chris and Loadzy53, lead me to believe they are the same person.
Dude, just cause you got owned on a previous post, doesn't mean change your name, and regurgitate the same arguments that were used so effectively against you. Be original, and think for yourself buddy.
OakFoSho
#21
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 6:01 PM
The Raiders have signed Drew Carter, as mentiones before, and I would put up the link to his scouting report, but it is literally just one line. It says, "Carter is very tall and has rare pure speed for his height."
The associated press bulletin on the signing said that he was the fastest receiver on the market, so this makes sense as an Al Davis pick up, especially since he sort of broke out last season, doubling his career output with 38 rec, 517 yards, and 4 TDs. I think this is a solid pick up for the Raiders and only cost them 2 mil. I think after is good performance last season, and the lack of depth at WR make this a great pick up for the Raiders. I think the Raiders should still try and get a 2nd rnd WR, but this pick up does a lot to solidify the position.
OakFoSho
#22
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 6:08 PM
Also, on the J Money is 300 lbs rumor, this was in the chronicle this morning.
"JaMarcus Russell does not weigh 300 pounds and he has worked out at team headquarters since season's end, two team officials said Tuesday. They were addressing multiple Internet stories about rumors that Russell was pushing three bills and was MIA in Alameda this offseason.
"Ridiculous," said a front-office employee, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak on the issue. "JaMarcus is nowhere near that. He's been here. He's been working out. He's in great shape.""
Looks like another rumor is put to bed in Raider Nation. J Money is in shape ready to destroy the West and the league.
OakFoSho
#23
Posted by reb raider, March 12, 2008 6:19 PM
ldizzle,
Bigots are not in interracial marriages such as I. I have indoor plumbing, two B.S. degrees and no red on my neck. You attack my Southern Heritage you can stick it where the sun don't shine.
Raider Cool Raider Nation!
#25
Posted by loadyz53, March 12, 2008 6:51 PM
Like I said before, you want my address? We can settle this the only way I know, to the death.
#27
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 7:43 PM
Aha! I knew it was him!! Aha! That's Hilarious!!
OakFoSho
#28
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 7:49 PM
Its blogging man, not boxing! If you can't take the heat, get out the kitchen. These kind of rediculous threats, which will never amount to anything, only serve to highlight your lack of knowledge regarding the Raiders and football as a whole. You have been discovered as a hack, period. Now deal with it, and maybe when you learn a little more about this team you supposedly like, you can come back and try again.
OakFoSho
#29
Posted by Juice, March 12, 2008 7:52 PM
Raider X, I'm liking a lot of what you said. Up until this point I really wasn't even considering Vernon Gholsten becoming Oakland's first round pick. It does make sense though. After losing Chris Clemons and moving Tommy Kelly Back to DT, they are definately in the market for a defensive end. My only question is the fact that all the buzz that I've been hearing about Gholsten is that teams are projecting him as a rush linebacker in a 3-4 defense, which by the way, we don't run. That's why you hear his name linked to teams such as the Dolphins, Jets, and Patriots who each run a variation of the 3-4. Now is that because of his freakish combination of strength and speed for an end, or is that because of his lack of bulk to consistently defend the run at the end position in a 4-3? I know this is all in theory, but as you said in your article, when you saw tape on him he seemed to just be running around blockers raising hell. Now we both know that it won't be that easy in the league. Even if he's a great pass rusher, at the expense of being a liability against the run, is the defensive line really any better off than it was in the previous season? Just some food for thought. But then again we all know how much Al loves those combine freaks right? Personally, I think Al will pounce on Chris Long if he's available, which could be a "long shot" (get it?). Given Al's history, I doubt they will trade down even though that could be exactly what he SHOULD do. If Gholsten or Long are not available then I believe they have to take either Glenn Dorsey or Sedrick Ellis. Once again, I agree with you Raider X on the topic of Dorsey. If the team's medical staff doesn't deem Dorsey 100% healthy, then they should ABSOLUTELY NOT pick him. I view him as "three techinique under tackle", much lke Warren Sapp when he came out of Miami over a decade ago. It's interesting because Sapp fell in the first round that year, and if Dorsey's medical history is indeed suspect, then he could share the same fate. But then again, Sapp did go on to enjoy a hall of fame calibre career. Al already signed the aformentioned Tommy Kelly to a massive deal to play that same position where Dorsey would be projected at, so with all things considered it just doesn't make sense for them to select Dorsey. Sedrick Ellis does make a lot of sense though. Lane Kiffen was on the coaching staff when Ellis was recruited to USC, and coached him at the Senior Bowl, wherein he was easily the most dominant player. USC also deployed a scheme where they used 3-4 fronts where Ellis played the nose tackle position. When I've seen tape of him, he holds the point of attack well, is freakishly explosive, and despite his lack of height, he plays with outstanding leverage. He reminds me of The Ravens' nose tackle Kelly Gregg, an undersized, high motor guy who wins the battles at the line of scrimmage by playing with exceptional leverage. Not a bad comparison. Ask anyone in Baltimore how much of unsung hero Gregg is to that defense. Finally, this brings me to the only other possible player that will merrit selection with the fourth overall pick, Darren McFadden. The re-signing of Justin Fargas and renegotiating of Dominique Rhodes' contract pretty much seal the deal in my mind that McFadden won't be carrying the ball for the Silver & Black in the near future. It just doesn't make sense to sink that kind of money into a position where thier is actually pretty good depth. I like the signings of Gibril Wilson and Javon Walker, provided the former plays strong safety in turn moving Michael Huff to Free safety, and the latter can still run deep on that surgically repaired knee. Kwame Harris was a good pickup too. Tom Cable has worked some stellar magic with that offensive line, so there's no reason to think that Harris won't improve under his tuteledge. Even if he doesn't start he will provide adequate depth. Wow, that was lot of stuff I just wrote. Well hopefully you all agree with what I had to say, and Raider X keep up the good work. You too Patrick.
Oh, and as far as the weight rumors regarding JaMarcus Russell. When I first heard about it, I couldn't help but laugh a little. He's a REAL BIG dude anyway, so hearing that he put on some weight in offseason doesn't concern me. His weight when he comes to camp is the only weight that really matters. Otherwise we got a bigger version of Jared Lorenzen!
#30
Posted by LDizzle, March 12, 2008 9:12 PM
OakFoSho: HAAAAAAHAHAHAHA! That is so F*cking hillarious! It IS that Sh*t homer Chris. That is a riot. Chris are you SERIOUSLY throwing out empty death threats in blog? HAAAAHAHAHA! What a complete fool.
and rem..er..reb? Did I call you out specifically as a bigot red neck? No. So if you feel like you resemble my remarks and are offended by them that is on you. I too have a Bachelors degree (Whoopedee Doo!) and I fought for this country so we can have free speech along with many other freedoms and if you don't like it "Get out". There's a little irony for ya.
#31
Posted by OakFoSho, March 12, 2008 9:53 PM
Dude I have a good eye, and a better memory! I'm sure this guy will try and come back as someone else again, and then he'll be spotted again, and owned again, and again, and again, and again! This guy is pathetic! Not only does he wuss out and change his name, he steals others arguments to pawn them off as his own.
Chris = Loadzy53 = Worthless
OakFoSho
#32
Posted by loadyz53, March 13, 2008 9:03 AM
I said already, not threats, promises. Hope you never say your real name, cause there will be a box waiting for you. If I ever find a person who uses this name anywhere, I will follow through. And yeah the name is Chris, never changed who I am fags, that is my screen name when I log in to other sites (loadyz53) so it was up on top. Chris is my real name. I am REAL, you want fake, go look in the mirror.
#34
Posted by OakFoSho, March 13, 2008 10:41 AM
Is this guy still talking! Aha!
OakFoSho = Loving Life
LDizzle = Opra-holic (IE Loving life too)
OakFoSho
#35
Posted by DevilDog, March 13, 2008 1:09 PM
If Chris Long is not available, I say Sedrick Ellis (he's a freakin Beast!) or McFadden!
#36
Posted by LDizzle, March 13, 2008 5:56 PM
Christina (ie spoogeloadz) is a real comedian. I remember when he said he doesn't get embarassed by anything. Such a macho man he is. Now he is making "promises" that we are "dead". He is one of those guys who is only a Raider fan because he is in love with the idea of being a badass due to the fact he will never be. At least not while he is sleeping under the quilt his mommy made him and working at Hotdog on a stick. Keep the comedy comin Christy.
#37
Posted by reb raider, March 14, 2008 2:09 PM
I see your deal ldizzle... your just a jerk. You must have a small life. I pity ya.
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