Photo Lea Suzuki / The Chronicle

                                                                                              Head Coach Tom Cable

Writers tend to focus on a name they know from the Raiders and that happens to be Jamarcus Russell at the moment, but in their haste to create a story about Russell’s weight or some sort of Garcia vs Russell QB battle, they’re overlooking the very real fact Oakland’s O line has a lot of new faces.

Raider fans are familiar with last years debacle at tackle and former line coach now head coach Tom Cable’s insistence on keeping Kwame Harris at left tackle despite ample evidence of his terrible play.

Mario Henderson stepped in when Cable had finally had enough and played well earlier when Harris had missed time due to injury.

The 6-7 300 lb Henderson's play against some of the Leagues better pass rushers opened some eyes and had some in Oakland hoping for a brighter future.

Thats not to say the position is his.

Far from it.

Cable and co. made the move this off season for Khalif Barnes formerly of the Jacksonville Jags. Barnes had as many sacks against him as Kwame Harris did last year and unlike Harris has a checkered past with the law in his brief NFL career.

The 6-5, 325 lb 26 yr old may have been brought in as a competitor as Russell’s blind side protector, but Oaklands hedging its bets, offering only a one year, $1.26 million dollar contract to see if last years fall off was a fluke or if his career is in a sudden tailspin.

In Barnes favor, the Jags did lose starting center Brad Meester in pre season and both starting guards opening day. One could see how losing the core of your O line for the season day one could put a damper on your ability.

He’s also versatile and can play both right and left tackle.

Some have called Barnes "Cable’s new project". We only hope he has more success with Barnes than he did with Harris.

Speaking of starting centers Oakland will likely be fielding a new starter ala Miami in the form of 6-3, 300 lb Samson Satele.

Hawaiian born and raised, Satele played last year despite a torn labrum in his shoulder, which may have something to do with him struggling with bigger nose tackles.

Satele had surgery this off season and has been rehabbing but will likely be behind last years hold over veteran John Wade who was less than spectacular filling in last year.

Satele signed a 4 year $2.89 million dollar deal and joined the team in March as former Raider center Jake Grove traded spots and went to Miami.

As a bonus, Satele can play guard in a pinch.

Its hoped the more agile Satele adapts to the ZBS taught in Oakland and anchors the Raiders for many years to come.

Eric Pears joined Oakland this off season and may find himself lining up next to another former Bronco lineman Cooper Carlisle on the right side.

Like Barnes, Pears has tackle experience on both sides of the line and has proven to be a decisive run blocker who may compete with Cornell Greene for the starting slot which could be vacant if Greene is cut or isn’t resigned by his 2010 contract expiration.

At 6-8, 305 lbs Pears was laid out by an appendectomy last year with Denver and placed on non football injured reserve before the Raiders snagged him.

Oakland has a lot of new pieces on its offensive line. Starting next Tuesday, we’ll start to find out where they all fit and if they’ll all stay.

  Most writers don't hate
the Raiders, they nothing
               them...



"And then sometimes, when likely forced, possibly like Yahoo! Sports writer Michael Silver, they attempt to say something, anything, with out drawing the ire of the Raider faithful. 
How unfortunate...
Despite his name, Mr.Silver appears to be no fan of the Silver and Black as his latest "non article" shows, but considering the state of the Raider Nation the last few years, his reticence can be, if not forgiven, at least understood.
But, there are signs of life back in Oaktown. If one cares to look..."

•  

   

                                                            

                        
  

  Photo / Tony Gonzales

  Louis Murphy

  Murphy was taken 124^th over all in the 4^th round of the 09' draft.

  Murphy was overshadowed by team mates Percy Harvin and Tim TeBow and really wasn’t utilized enough in the spread offense at the University of Florida.

  Murphy was a two sport athlete, at one point lighting up the track with a personal best of 6.36 in the 55 meter dash.

  Though he started slowly in football, Murphy was team Captain of the Gators by the 2008 campaign, contributing tackles on special teams, working the punt return game and picking up yards on the ground, cranking off several nice reverses.

  The versatile WR even attempted to throw a pass.

  He topped his last year with 38 grabs for 655 yds and 7 TDs, but missed the Senior bowl, having knee surgery to clean out cartilage following the 2008 season.

  He’s got great size at 6-3, 203, but needs to put meat on his frame and get more physical not only in press coverage but in blocking, where he is very inconsistent.

  He tends to make body catches too often and needs to prove he can compete for jump balls and must hold onto catches when using his quickness to gain Y.A.C.

  With his height and long arms he can create separation from DB’s. He’s explosive off the line with sub 4.4 speed to burn corners deep and stretch the field. Just the way Oakland likes it.

  Attending Russell’s off season passing camp in Alabama was a risk that bode well for the young wide out and his efforts haven’t gone unnoticed by the powers that be.

  By volunteering for Russell's camp, Murphy ran the risk of suffering and injury with out a contract, but went anyway.

  Lets hope his dedication pays off for him and for Oakland.

   

   

   

    Shaughnessy next to
                  Sign?
  
  
  

•  

   

   

              

  Photo / EXPOSAY.COM                                                                  

                                                                                          DE Matt Shaughnessy

   

  He’s 6-5, 270 lbs and likely to be the next 2009 draft pick to sign with the Oakland Raiders.

  Matt Shaughnessy will have competition if he wants to make the roster, but given the "one foot out the door" status supposed by former pro bowler (2005, 2006) and 9^th year DE Derrick Burgess. Though 13 yr vet Greg Ellis just signed a 3 yr deal with the Raiders, he will likely be used only as a pass rush specialist, leaving upstart DE’s like last years surprise Trevor Scott and newbie Matt Shaughnessy a shot at making the Raiders roster in years to come.

  Shaughnessy was pick 71 in the 3^rd round of the 09' draft, one right behind DE Michael Johnson who was a monster at the combine, but has lingering questions about his work ethic.

  Shaughnessy had a knee injury early on in his college career at Wisconsin (2006), and knee surgery in high school but recovered quickly. He gained a rep for playing hurt and tough by strapping on the pads and producing.

  In 2008 spring camp, he broke his right fibula. He played the entire season, but it was apparent he hadn’t fully recovered posting 10 pressures to only 4 sacks.

  For Oakland, Shaughnessy may be utilized as more of a edge setting run stopper due to his lack of consistent burst. Combined with his leaping ability and long wing span he can give outside rushers problems.

  The former Badger also uses his 6-5 frame and vertical to swat down passes, effectively disturbing passing lanes, especially for smaller QBs.

  He’ll have to prove he can add bulk and strength to his lower body, but is surprisingly good at holding his ground and stonewalling blocks. He makes good use of his hands to avoid cut blocks and the wash while trailing down the line and has a very good rip move too, often finding his way into the back field despite a lack of burst to the ball carrier.

  Rumor has it Matt Shaughnessy may be the next of his draft class to sign with the Oakland Raiders after 6^th round pick TE Brandon Myers reportedly put pen to paper earlier this week. If so, Shaughnessy could give Oakland much needed depth and competition in the DE rotation.

   

   

   

   

    New Coordinator, New

   Weapons in Raiders

     09' Passing Attack

                  
 Photo Rueters

                                                                                                              RB Michael Bush

New passing game coordinator Ted Tollner will have new weapons to choose from in 09' even if Javon Walker can’t stay healthy again this year.

Oakland and Tollner lack a tried and true veteran presence on the team at the WR spot, but possess two of the games better receivers out of the backfield in newbies Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, both of whom have demonstrated very good hands and an ability to throw the ball on occasion.

Their dexterity and abilities should give Tollner the creativity to split not only McFadden out wide or in the slot, but Bush as well. Though Bush doesn’t possess the blazing quickness of McFadden, his 6-1, 245 lb frame instantly poses mismatch problems for nickle backs and even some linebackers tasked with coverage.

If Oakland can come together on its fundamentals, the variations posed by having such gifted receivers coming out of the back field, in motion out wide or inside could create serious problems for opposing defensive coordinators and give Oakland a leg up on the competition.

Last years rotating coaches and coordinators stifled those possibilities, along with injuries and both backs inability to effectively pass block, but in 09' with a new coordinator and with a year under their belts, both Bush and DMC should be better and a little more well rounded at their positions, opening a myriad of opportunities for Oaklands play callers.

Photo AP

                                                                                                                    RB Darren McFadden

Its presumed Oakland will continue to stress its ground game in the coming year, but don’t be surprised to see more of McFadden or Bush spread out wide or in the slot in 09',especially if injuries and under production dog its wide outs like last year.

Even if their receivers stay healthy, the possibilities created by Oaklands talented running backs could and should open a new dimension to the Raider ariel attack.

   Decoding "The Davis 

                 Way"

A shocking number of Raider fans have no idea how their team functions.

Many felt and still feel the selection of DT B.J. Raji may have been the key to shoring Oakland notoriously leaky run D.

Raji does have potential, but why pay him guaranteed money at 7th over all prices? Thats a risk, especailly when your defense is predicated on coverage and pass rush.

Most assume you fix the team like 90% of other NFL teams, but not so with the Raiders. For better or worse (lately worse) Oakland is built backwards, but if the offense can sustain drives and put points on the board, teams will eventually have to abandon the run and fall into Oaklands trap.

Our O's massive under production plays a large role in our D's inability to stop the run, so, theoretically, fixing the O should help "fix" the run D.

Can Davis football return the Raiders to glory? 09' will be telling...

New Defensive Coach John Marshall's emphasis on disciplined football may help matters as well.

All too often Oaklands D has over extended, bit on play fakes and gotten caught out of position.

Even though we desperately needed one for Russell, taking a WR instead of a tackle makes sense especailly when you consider the ZBS is predicated on interior play. Again, pretty much opposite from most "normal" teams.

Last years play at the postion was so bad though, that fact could've been lost on many fans.

Have no illusions, the Raiders have a lot to work on in the coming years, but for the first time in a while, they've got pieces in place to implement Al Davis's game plan and it is Al Davis's game plan.

Like it or not.

Whether its genius or folly will likley be played out over the next two seasons.

 Photo / Blitz magazine

                                                                       WR Darrius Heyward Bey                        

After taking a firm, reasonable stand on why there was no way Oakland would take a receiver at 7, they defy logic and convention to take not only a receiver, but a massive reach on Maryland speed demon Darrius Heywayrd Bey.

Whether  completely inexperienced wide reciever coach Sanjay Lal can groom this diamond in the rough is a total mystery. Lal did help with receivers in 2007 as Oaklands offensive quality control assistant, was an accoplished receiver at Washinton State and receivers coach for Marimonte high school, but thats about it.

Hardly the sparkling resume of last years hall of fame receiving coach James Lofton, but then again, even with next to nothing to work with, Oaklands wide outs still under produced.

Bey's 4.27 40 time sealed the deal  for Davis according to those who predicted this pick and it will be interesting to see what they can get out of Bey as he develops.

Whether he'll even get a chance to catch a pass is another matter considering what a couple of the Raiders AFC West opponents have done in the 1st round of the 09' draft.

Oakland better hope offensive tackles Mario Henderson, Khalif Barnes, Eric Pears or a combination of the three can keep JaMarcus Russell upright in 09'.

Both Kansas City and Denver used 1^st round picks on defensive ends.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2009/profiles/tyson-jackson?id=71341

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2009/profiles/larry-english?id=80423

Though the best pass protector in the draft was surprisingly available to them Oakland chose to make the reach for wide receiver Heyward Bey rather than franchise left tackle Eugene Monroe who was taken immediately with the next pick held by Jacksonville.

The acquisition of physically gifted Bey will make little sense for 09' if Russell is on his back, but Oakland hopes to keep its 6^th rated running game going with break out season by RB Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, making teams crowd the box and opening passing lanes.

Combined with McFadden, Bey gives the Raiders offense the potential for big play capability nearly every play.

But only if the O line can block for them.

Oaklands yet to make their second selection at the time of this writing and they may still address offensive line needs to help their highly touted hopefuls.

                                                                                                                      Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry

Who will the Oakland Raiders take with the 7^th overall pick, Raji, Crab, Curry, Andre Smith?

Some mocks have "the safest pick in the draft", Wake Forest’s 6-3, 247 lb linebacker Aaron Curry falling past Kansas City, but the stand out defensive star is not a need that high and for that much money.

Would it be nice? Probably, but other areas seem higher priority given the scheme, recent drafts and current talent level.

Boston’s big B.J. Raji could help at defensive tackle, but only if Davis thinks he can consistently collapse the pocket and rush the passer.

It is after all, going to stay a 4-3 pass rush, cover defense.

Raji could be used as trade bait for the flood of teams installing a 3-4 this season.

There are also questions about how much the 6-1, 337 lb Raji benefitted from having big Ron Brace along side him at B.C.

Photo / Rueters

                                                                                 Texas Tech WR Micchael Crabtree

Texas Tech star wide out Michael Crabtree suffered the luckiest break of all when a combine medical exam turned up a foot fracture that prevented him from running in this years NFL combine.

The 6-1, 215 lb Crabtree’s stock likely would’ve plummeted (and still may) due to the fact 10 wide receivers at the combine ran 4.4 or better.

Given Mike Lombardi’s chronic insistence Davis drafts solely for speed, a slow 40 time would likely have knocked him off the Raiders radar.

As it stands, his tape and stats get to do the talking.

If Al Davis thinks the youngsters college numbers can translate to TDs in the NFL, he could be donning silver and black next year.

Crabtree may be a viable target for franchise arm Russell and in all feasibility, that could help the developing 3^rd year QB immensely.

Restructuring the contract of oft troubled, oft injured veteran wide receiver Javon Walker could be a stop gap while Crabtree makes the jump from Texas Techs "gimmick" offense to a pro style attack.

Evaluating wide receivers is one of the hardest things a team can do, so don’t be surprised if Oakland doesn’t take the leap if Crab is there.

Even with the glaring lack of production at the position, tackle is considered the least important O line job in the ZBS and to lavish 7th overall money on one may not happen, but if Andre Smith falls this far, he should be taken.

Theres enough tape of him, even with his public train wrecks and foibles, to indicate he's legitimately worth the risk, however, not for the slot many Raider fans think.

Smith may be better suited to the right side instead of the left.

At least initially.

                                                                       Alabama Tackle Andre "The Giant" Smith  

It would take something major for one of the top two prospects (Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe) to fall to Oakland at 7, but given his recent press, Alabama stand out Andre Smith could be available if teams like the Seahawks and Bengals don’t snatch him up first.

Who knows, KC may even take the shot.

At 6-4, 332 lbs, Smith is considered short for a left tackle, but, he possesses arms 35 5/8 inches long to help make up for it.

Smith has great feet for his size, but lacks the explosion in his kick slide to stop NFL pass rushers from running the arc to the QB.

If Oakland goes with Smith on Saturdays draft, he may not be the "plug inable" answer so many are hoping for at left tackle, at least initially, but he could be invaluable at right.

Some may think the Raiders will shy away from taking a tackle with the 7^th overall because of the acquisitions of tackles Khalif Barnes and Eric Pears combined with the aforementioned zone blocking system, but it could be Oakland is simply using the two as a stop gap and insurance while their theoretical draft pick seasons for a year and maybe running more "jumbo", tackle eligible and H back packages in the near future.

Will Davis seek to shore his leaky run D or stay the course and assemble an arsenal around his franchise gun slinger?

One of the great things about being a Raider fan, until it happens, you never really know.

       

Photo / AP

                                                                                                            DT B.J. Raji

Unsubstantiated rumor has it massive Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji paid a visit to the Oakland Raiders.

The 6-2, 337 lb Raji visited with the #1 draft pick holding Detroit Lions on March 18^th and was reported to have ventured to Tampa where he was scheduled for two days, April 2^nd and 3^rd of last week to work out for the Buccaneers and an excursion to San Francisco and the 49ers yesterday in a visit scheduled to last through Tuesday.

Raji in the bay area doesn’t necessarily mean he met with Raider officials and it certainly doesn’t mean he worked out for them.

Still, some silver and black fans may speculate Raji’s supposed appearance makes sense since Oaklands run defense has dwelled in the basement of NFL rankings for some years now, but Raji isn’t automatically the man when it comes to Oaklands 7^th overall pick.

Forget the negative hype and rumors of failed drug tests. These aren’t the reasons Raji’s not a fit for the Raiders. Nor is it that Raji is looked at more as a 3-4 nose tackle that could play under tackle in a 4-3.

The hiring of pass rush specialists in the guise of D line coach Dwaine Board and defensive coordinator John Marshall should serve as a clue that even though former D coordinator Rob Ryan’s gone, the defensive scheme will remain the same.

Owner and legend Al Davis’s defensive scheme.

Davis has chosen to stay the course and Raji doesn’t seem like the perfect fit.

Though he looked unblockable at times at this years Senior bowl, Raji’s pass rush seems average and his ability to make plays outside the guards is questionable.

He flashes incredible initial quickness that would allow him to play the 3 technique in a 4-3 alignment, but again, his pass rush is only marginal at best.

That means he’s not ideal for Davis’s cover defense, even though he can be a force as a one gap penetrator, the Raiders already have Gerard Warren who has experienced a come back of sorts after leaving division rival Denver.

Raji’s seen by some fans as a key to shoring the Raiders leaky run defense when in actuality, the key to a better run D under Davis’s plan is to field a productive offense.

A lot has been said about the Raiders inability to sustain drives and score touchdowns. 206 plays with out a TD in 08' highlights that point, but if they can turn that around in 09' with weapons like Russell, Bush and McFadden, Davis’s pass rush, cover D makes more sense.

Given these facts, taking someone like Raji does not.

Lining out $20-$30 million dollars for a theoretically two down defensive lineman isn’t going to happen unless Oakland thinks the short armed Raji can disrupt the pocket consistently.

Whether he visited, met with or sun bathed with the Raiders, we at RNS don’t know, but if he did, Raider fans shouldn’t get there hopes up.

Raji’s likely not the man in Raiderland.

Photo / Reuters

                                                                                   Former Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin

Jeremy Maclin

Positives:

Led all college players in all purpose yards two years in a row

Back to back 1000 yd+ seasons recieving.

6-0, 200 lbs.

Extremely hard worker in the off season

Best Wonderlic score among top receivers at 2009 combine (Maclin, 25. Crab 15)

Outstanding return prospect. Reads blocks well to extend runs

Almost impossible to catch from behind

Demonstrates C.O.D ability at speed

Top tier explosion off the line, long strides in space.

Negatives

Becomes a body catcher at times.

Maclin friendly system at Missouri leaves questions about transition to pros

Rarely pressed at the line and may not play we'll "in a phone booth"

Doesn't give the effort in run blocking

Doesn't always attack and fight for the ball

Lacks consistent separation and bananas routes on occasion.

Though Oakland has a few kick return guys (Tyvon Branch, Justin Miller and JLH) with an in house hire to replace ST coach Brian Schnieder and the death of the wedge this year, the Raiders special teams remain a question mark.

Odds are, the slot or Z position is Higgins to lose and if he wins it, we may or may not need a Maclin's services there.

If he's taken, he could kick and punt return in spades while sitting a year to get up to speed behind "rookie" Arman Shields and the likely gone Javon in 2010.

Maclin with the 7th?

Davis has stated publicly, wide receiver may not be the priority at 7, but given Maclin’s Raider speed and currently unproven roster, he may at least be on the radar.

                                                                      Former USC LB Rey Maualuga

For some in Raiderland, there is a school of thought that Oakland should use its 7th overall pick to obtain USC Trojan middle linebacker Rey Maualuga to shore Oaklands notoriously horrid run defense.

If the silver and black were to select Maualuga, it likely would help them stop the run in certain situations and improve the Raiders defense by allowing a miscast Kirk Morrison to return to a more natural spot as the strong side linebacker, but would it be worth 7th overall money? 

Morrison to the strong side would be an upgrade immeditately. Howard's got the Will side locked down and if its a constest between Alston and Brown for playing time at SAM there's a clear deficiency there.

Morrison hasn't excelled playing the Mike and plugging in a hammer head (apologies to Dwight Clark) like Rey Rey would seem a positive move, but the fact is, Rey struggles in space and gets exposed in coverage.

He simply would cost too much and doesn't fit the Raiders man heavy cover scheme.

                                                                                    MLB Kirk Morrison

Add that to the fact Rey benefitted from another good line backer in Brian Cushing taking the field with him every week and questions begin to arise about the USC tackling machines viability not only with the Raiders, but as a top 10 pick in general.

It could be argued the young linebacker might thrive with two excellent players like Morrison and Howard at his sides, but likley only until he had to sit in many 3rd down passing situations.

The real nail in the coffin for Maualuga becoming a Raider isn't per se, the Raiders defensive scheme, but more likey the offensive one.

Because Oaklands core is centered around its offense being able to sustain drives and put up points, its defense is built to stop the pass, something the former USC Trojan would likely struggle with at the pro level.

Photo Greg Trott / Getty Images

                                                                                          Raider TE Darrell Strong

It all started in Tampa on Nov. 4th 2007 in a 22-12 loss to South Florida when Panther’s tight end Darrell Strong made an obscene gesture at Bull’s fans after a 19 yd TD catch.

Then coach Dave Wannstedt suspended the junior for two games.

Then, in the off season Strong was cited for harassment and criminal mischief related to a very public blow up with a girl friend at a Pittsburgh mall.

Though Strong was punished by among other things, being forced to wear a pink jersey during team weight training, the tempermental youngster decided to improve on his junior year numbers at Pitt where he caught 15 passes for 171 yds and 3 TDs despite the two game suspension.

Strong buckled down and worked his way back into Wannstedt’s good graces, putting up decent numbers his senior campaign, hauling in 29 passes for 323 yds and 3 more touchdowns.

More importantly, Strong made strides as a more complete player as the Panthers morphed into a running team, throwing crushing blocks to free up team mates like freshman star running back LeSean McCoy.

Though scouts were intrigued by Strong’s 6-5, 255 lb frame and decent 4.8 40 time, they were more impressed by his 5 catches in 2008's Hula bowl.

Strong eventually made his way onto the Raiders practice squad and though considered a long shot, impressed enough to stay with the team.

He turned heads with some good grabs last pre season until a shoulder injury in early August slowed him.

Strong was activated last year after injuries to wide receivers Shields, Carter, Walker and finally Lelie saw him elevated from the practice squad in late December.

The Raiders looked to run more 2 tight end sets last year, but massive under production and questions at the tackle positions left them with little option but to keep their best TE Zach Miller in on blocking assignments more than they would’ve liked.

Strong has survived incursions by other tight ends like John Madsen and veteran Ben Troupe to remain on the team and if he can continue to progress, he could become a more viable part of Oaklands offensive scheme.

If Oakland can shore its blocking at the tackle positions with players like emerging Mario Henderson and recent free agent addition from the Jags, Khalif Barnes it would go a long way toward helping Strong make the field.

The former Pittsburgh Panther will likely be watching April 25 to see if Oakland takes a tackle with this years 7^th overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft.

If he can continue to progress, stay healthy and they can address their protection issues, Strong could make another move at the Raiders 53 man roster as a soft handed and potentially talented TE receiving option and become another member of an increasingly prevalent Raider youth movement.

According to ESPN’s John Clayton, the Oakland Raiders have signed offensive tackle Khalif Barnes to a one year contract.

The 26 yr old interviewed with Oakland, tested the waters elsewhere and apparently found the Raiders meager deal was the best offer available.

Clayton went as far as to call it "coup" but if Barnes was s such an outstanding prospect, others would likely have been interested and the offer would likely have extended more than one year.

Barnes was supposedly in negotiations with the Bucs as well for his services, but likely would’ve been a backup in Tampa.

Barnes has a checkered past and was admonished by the Jags after a late night 2007 November 10^th traffic stop for allegedly traveling 101 miles an hour.

The stop led to a drunk driving arrest in which Barnes, then 24, was captured on tape repeatedly stating Jacksonville was a "hick town" and that the arresting officer "hated black people and was a KKK devil."

The Washington Post reported on October 2^nd of the same year, Barnes was cited again, this time for leaving the scene of an accident when his Mercedes was found abandoned after being crashed into a tree.

His off field excursions aside, Barnes was part of a Jags team that struggled with injuries galore last season, losing starting center Brad Meester in pre season with a torn biceps and then losing both starting guards to injury on opening day.

The lack of consistency and quality along the Jags line has to be considered when evaluating Barnes poor performance last year, but 09' will go a long way toward determining his fate as professional football player.

He gave up as many sacks as Oaklands 2008 starting left tackle Kwame Harris (both surrendered 7.5), but with his off field issues combined with problems in protection, the Raiders have another project for O line minded head Coach Cable to tinker with in 09'.

The one year trial contract has some speculating the Silver and Black may still go O line with their 7^th overall pick in the upcoming draft on April 26^th in New York City.

Photo / Reuters

                                                                                                                              WR Javon Walker 

Walker's restructure ensures another year in silver and black, but is that a good or a bad thing?

Wether he can ever get back to pro bowl numbers is another matter, but when healthy, he can provide an experienced, sure handed target for Russell.

At least thats what Raiders fans hope.

Its possible Walker looked to the free agent market and realized he might be sitting on a couch next season if he didn't rework with the Raiders, especially considering the glut of aged receivers looking for work, like T.J. Houshmenzedah, Marvin Harrison and Laverneus Cole's around the time of his new deal.

Its also possible Davis knew something was up with T.O. and Dallas, making the WR market even more unattractive to Walker, whose recent history and production make it highly unlikely he'd receive a better offer on the open market.

So, what does this mean for the April draft and Oaklands 7th overall pick?

True Raider fans know you never can tell with Uncle Al, but its seems unlikely Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree will be the Raiders selection.

Offensive line seems to be the logical choice but again, with Davis, its hard to tell.

Having a line Coach like Cable in the mix would tend to indicate a lean that direction, if not the terrible play last year of its starting offensive tackles.

There seems to be a solid base of Raider fans who think Oakland should take a chance on 6-4, 332 lb Alabama left tackle Andre Smith despite his embarassing disappearance from this years combine, weight issues and inconsist play.

Its alot of money to risk, but when he's focused and on, inmany people's book, he's hands down the best line man of his class.

Oakland has set its sites on JaMarcus Russell as the face of their franchise.

With Walker's restructure, they likely won't give him any first round talent at wide receiver, so they should be leaning toward shoring the O line and giving their QB the next best thing, a blind side protector and a successful running game.

Photo Paul Sakuma / AP

                                                                                                                                   WR Javon Walker

His career as a Raider began on the worst possible terms when he was mugged after an ill advised outing in Vegas and may finally end as the worst free agent signing in League history.

NFL Network reports the Raiders may indeed release aledged wide receiver Javon Walker after an injury plagued and unproductive season that saw the 6-3, 215 lb former 1^st round pick snag only 15 catches for 196 yds and 1 TD.

Hardly worth the reported $55 million dollar contract he was awarded by the Raiders under Lane Kiffin’s command in the off season of 08'.

Many felt Walker would stay on and give it another shot in 09', citing he was recovering in 08' from two knee procedures before donning the silver and black, but if todays news is correct, the Raiders may sever ties with the oft injured and mentally questionable receiver.

If so, the Raiders may suffer dead money in the range of $5 to $6 million dollars against their 09' cap, but would release themselves of an albatross and seemingly the last vestiges of the aforementioned Kiffin’s regime.

It was obvious last year Oaklands wide outs were terrible from the get go with Walker making extremely brief appearances in only 8 of Oaklands games, usually for a hand full of plays.

Not exactly the production you’d like out of your #1 receiver.

As of right now, Oakland does not have a proven elite #1 wide out and if Walker is released, they may not have the money to acquire one ala free agency, i.e. The Bengals T.J. Houshmenzadeh (Arizona’s Anquan Boldin, another potentially hot FA prospect has back tracked and stated he will consider an offer from the Cardinals.) who would likely ask for money similar too, if not exceeding the contract awarded Walker.

With the loss of dead money by dropping Walker, the Raiders simply may not be able to afford it.

That leaves them with very young and untested talent at wide out including WR kick return specialist Johnnie Lee Higgins and 7^th round pick WR Chaz Schilens as Oaklands top wide outs with combined experience of 3 seasons under their belts.

The 6-4, 225 lb Schilens started only 6 games and likely would never have gotten the shot his rookie year had it not been for the benching of woefully under productive wide receiver Ronald Curry (released earlier this week) and injuries to Walker and washed up wide out Ashley Lelie.

Even so, Schilens made a name blocking and receiving making as many catches as the supposed #1 wide out Walker with 15.

He also gained 226 yds and scored 2 TDs and showed promise as a starter down the line if he continues to improve. Schilens showed fire, enthusiasm and desire as he attacked the field and the ball. He was one of the few bright spots among dismal Raider receivers.

Photo Getty Images

                                                                                                                                      Higgins to the hizzy

Higgins erased a lot of bad memories from earlier in the year by making some good grabs and tearing off some electric kick returns for touchdowns later in the season, but most fans remember he wasn’t allowed near the field at the beginning of 08' because of mental lapses and the inability to run the right routes in practice

The 5-11, 185 lb wide out finished with 22 receptions for 366 yds and 4 TDs, but lacks the size to play the number one.

Again, JLH made big improvements toward the end of last season and showed he can bring the thunder, but he is hardly a proven starting X receiver. At best, he may serve as a replacement for the departed Ronald Curry.

Some think unproven wide out Drew Carter may attempt another shot at the NFL with Oakland, but the fact remains, the former Panther project has had surgery on both knees TWICE.

Last year Oakland placed dynamic hopeful Arman Shields on IR to protect him from poaching by other teams, but he has an injury history too and is unproven at the pro level.

The 6-1, 195 lb former Richmond Spider has incredible hands and plays with desire, but wether he can stay healthy and contribute consistently at the next level is unknown.

All of this leads Raider fans to think Al may take a flyer on Texas Tech’s mercurial WR Michael Crabtree, but with news of a cracked foot and imminent surgery on the horizon, more questions than faith lie at the heart of him as a solid receiver who would likely receive millions in the teens in guaranteed money despite the injury, questions about his speed and route running at the pro level.

The surgery would eliminate meaning full camp time as well, desperately needed to prepare him for routes and timing on the big stage.

In short, Crabtree would likely be more of a project and not a #1 wide out at least in 09'.

Thats not to say Oakland may not draft a wide receiver since its so obvious they need some, or even try their hand at free agency again despite dreadful returns last year.

They may find help in this years draft, likely passing on first round hopefuls Darius Heyward Bey out of the anemic Maryland pass game and the dynamic Missouri wide out Jeremy Maclin who has only one years proven performance at the college level and who’s kick returning skills might not be as valued in Oakland where they have Higgins and perhaps retaining the services of DB / KR Justin Davis.

Maclin would be a great addition, but would likely be gone by the Raiders 2^nd round pick and is not valued highly enough to rate at # 7 overall.

Photo Butch Dill / AP

                                                                                                               Rutgers WR Kenny Britt

A receiver who might be there in the 2^nd round is 6-4, 215 lb Rutgers stand out Kenny Britt who’s made noise at this years combine and has the body of Terrell Owens, fights for the ball and always finds a way to make big plays at crucial moments.

He doesn’t posses the elite speed Oakland would like and had a history of drops early on, but at this point, considering their cap and recent history at the position, Oakland could do worse.

                                                                                                                                                "The Duke"

With the introduction of Line coach Tom Cable after a disasterous 2006 campaign, many called the ressurection of the Raiders running game a miracle.

Speaking of "miracles", the Raiders could take thier O line to another level in this years draft.

Smokey Robinson’s iconic back up band crooned through soulful hits, but Smokey’s nephew Duke’s hits are another matter.

Literally a huge part of the Sooner’s dominant line, QB Sam Bradford and RB DeMarco Murray should donate a portion of their soon to be NFL contracts to Robinson for raising their stock.

The 6-5, 335 lb behemoth carried more than his share in making Oklahoma the highest scoring football team in college history.

Frighteningly brutal, George "Duke" Robinson is a throw back to the days of yore when brute force and punishment were coin of the realm.

With his long arms and natural power, Robinson would fit in on any of the old dominant lines from days gone by.

His aggressive violent, beyond intense style of play reminds some of Raider football in its heyday. Robinson steam rolls weaker opponents, pan caking them into the ground and sapping their will to fight.

Despite his massive size, he pulls and traps surprisingly well, demonstrates good balance and decent footwork.

He may be what Al Davis was talking about at Tom Cable’s coaching announcement ceremony when the ancient one stated they’d like to improve the ZBS when he said in a recent interview about "more power, gettting some power in there."

Robinson neutralizes anyone he gets his hands on and moves the pile in short yardage situations.

In protection, he struggles getting off the ball at times, but his punch stuns pass rushers, often freezing them in their tracks as he holds them at bay with his long arms.

He’ll need to work on his quickness against the NFL’s elite defenders. But when it comes to power and intimidation, Duke has few equals.

Oakland could use a miracle or two to get them back on the path to victory and they say luck favors the prepared.

Rebuilding your offensive line with a monster guard capable of dominant play year one would be a solid start.

If he's still there for Oakland's 2nd round pick, they should take him.

                                                                 "alledged" WR Javon Walker

Believe it or not, the Oakland Raiders played some fine football in 2008.

Not enough to manage many wins, but there was reason for real optimism despite Monte Poole’s insistence otherwise.

Their were definite horror stories like the damn season opener (still stings now in part due to the Kiffin "I’m in" campaign and massive off season spending spree) and the New Orleans nightmare, but for those who never got to see the games, their was some very good football played in spurts.

It can’t be emphasized enough how much the play (or lack there of) by certain Raiders affected game out comes and attitudes.

These are the worst offenders and why.

Javon Walker

After signing a contract that made him the 2^nd highest paid WR in the game Walker immediately became an albatross with his glaringly ridiculous Las Vegas mugging. Questions about his health and readiness over the severity of the attack were a major distraction.

Walker wasn’t the only one with a headache.

Though he’d appear, make noise with a couple of nice grabs, he would then disappear for the length of a bible.

A nagging hamstring was blamed, but Walker’s knee surgeries after leaving Denver left him out of shape and possibly unable to train normally.

It could be Walker was given a Plunkett pass and allowed to sit, absorb and heal for a year.

If so, Walker could be a larger contributor to the Raiders in 09' and that would be a very, very good thing.

Its unlikely Walker will walk in 09' because the Raiders would lose around $5.7 million in dead money for dropping him and that makes it less likely Oakland would or could attain the services of a big time FA like Anquan Boldin or T.J. Houshmenzedah.

It also makes the thought of paying 7^th overall sized money to an untested rookie like dynamic Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree questionable.

Given Oaklands current inexperienced and often under producing wide outs, quality game time from Walker would be a welcome change and go a long way toward erasing the bad taste of his non performance 08'.

Photo Ben Margot / AP

                                                          The good news? Harris recovers a fumble.

                                                          The bad news? His play caused it...

Kwame Harris

It is impossible to relate to the average fan how bad Harris’s play could be.

The term "lost" comes to mind.

Harris literally whiffed on myriad plays during contests resulting in game changing fumbles and sacks.

Harris struggled with every aspect of the position, failing to read and react to blitzes and or stunts and with out help from backs, he was constantly beaten like a rug.

There is a chance Harris could stay in Oakland now that Cable has been retained as HC.

Cable has been his champion.

It could be the new coach simply can’t believe some one so physically gifted and intelligent just can’t get it.

Harris is constantly beaten off the ball and is susceptible to any and all moves a defender might put on him.

Opponents rarely had to utilize a second or counter move against him to beat him and he stayed in the starting rotation waaaay too long, Even after he was injured and Mario Henderson had a good game performances against Kansas City and Buffalo Bills in weeks 2 and 3.

Henderson looked bad in practice though and sat until Harris was finally benched for the December match up with the Patriots.

The ever astute Jerry McDonald pointed out Harris was benched because "he couldn’t seem to grasp the concept that offensive linemen aren’t allowed to move before the snap."

Before his benching Harris had 11 false start flags thrown his way.

Not to mention, even when the Raiders did manage to snap the ball, Harris’s protection was too often terrible.

Perhaps the only hope for horrible Harris would be to make him practice being a defensive end, then maybe he could grasp the concept of how to block one.

Harris signed a 3 yr, $16 million dollar deal to come across the bay to Oakland.

When it comes to his 09' contributions, the Raiders would be best served by the adage "addition by subtraction" by leaving Harris out of any game plans if they can’t or won’t ditch him.

Photo Getty Images

                                                                                    DeAngelo Hall: "Whoo Hoo! I'm no good, but rich!"

DeAngelo Hall

Another high profile FA disaster, Hall left Oakland after 8 games with $8 million dollars worth of Al Davis’s money.

He promptly went on to mediocrity for the Redskins.

Hall’s play was so bad it literally cost Oakland football games.

His poor tackling and coverage, starting 7 yds off the ball, allowed  teams to convert critical 3^rd down situations over and over again. If that weren't bad enough, his gaffes and unforced errors saw him let Oakland get burned for deep TD strikes too.

Ridiculous if you consider how far off he played.

Though Chris Johnson stepped up and played shut down football in his place, the former 7^th round selection by Green Bay may not stay in silver and black.

He’s a free agent this off season.

Hall’s awful play and dismissal was yet another distraction like the ones that plagued Oakland all season.

Again, like Harris, addition by subtraction made Hall’s "loss" almost worth it.

Unfortunately, with Hall’s well deserved dismissal, Johnson and Asomugha potentially flying the coop in 09' and Nickle back Stanford Routt’s piss poor play in 08', Oakland may indeed look to select yet more DB’s in this years draft.

Draft picks many fans feel could be better spent elsewhere.

It wasn’t all because of Hall, but if he’d stayed and played up to expectations, the Raiders would in all likely hood be drafting in the teens instead of 7^th overall and might not be looking to select more DB's.

Hall may be in direct competition with Walker as the worst FA signing in history.

Davis attributes both, in part to Lane Kiffin. but he signed off them.

There were others who fared poorly or under performed in 08', like Tommy Kelly, Derrick Burgess and Ronald Curry, but Walker, Harris and Hall's inexcusably bad play bears direct responsibility for Raider loses with their consistent lack of effort and in some cases, just plain awfulness that resulted in scores and eventual losses.

One only has to look at the Raiders results when they were finally put on IR, benched and in Hall’s case, ditched.

With out these three, Oaklands chance for a decent 2009 look better already.

And thats no exaggeration.

Photo / Getty Images

                                                                                                                                        The Dark Lord

Even after all these years, its difficult for some fans to understand Al Davis's football philosophy.

Thats why many of them think Oakland should draft or acquire "run stuffing" LBs and or DTs but, to owner and Legend Al Davis run defense is not important.

Fans point to other teams successful Championship defenses that were often stout against the run.

In their more conventional systems, it is crucial to their defenses success.

Not so in Mr. Davis's world.

The ancient one took the adage "The best defense is a good offense" to heart.

In order for the the Raider defense to succeed, Oaklands offense is key.

Davis's built secondary forward D is predicated on stopping the pass.

The only way the team scheme works is if the O is sustaining drives. Drives that eat time off the clock, put up points and keep the D fresh for the 2nd half.

Alot of Davis's plan has to do with other teams abandoning the run at some point and throwing against Raider coverage.

Simple...in theory.

A key to its success?

The ground game.

Though the Raiders seek balance in their offense usually, their ground game is the sledge hammer that allows them to control the clock.

After a miraculous resurgence in 07', the ground game faltered a bit in 08'.

Injuries played a huge part in that decline.

Michael Bush + a healthy DMC + the ZBS could be one of the most devastating attacks in the League in 09'.

If Oakland can get its FB's back on line.

Arguably two of the best at their postion in the game, the Raiders lost both starting fullback s in 08', one in pre season and the other by week 8.

6-0, 230 lb 28 yr old FB Justin Griffith could come back on line by camps, but a serious knee injury like the one he sustained scoring a TD in a week 8 loss to the Ravens, can take a year to heal.

If it doesn't get aggravated or re injured.

5-11, 245 lb Oren O'Neal is expected to still be on crutches when camp opens.

                                                         FB Oren O' Neal helped from the field

Oakland expects more from its FB's than bowling over second level defenders, it expects help in protection and as receivers out of the back field.

Thats why it was so disappointing when the 6-1, 245 lb Bush balked at "helping the team out."

Perhaps film of Oaklands 1976 Super Bowl might've given him perspective.

The Raiders all time leading rusher (5,907 yds) Mark Van Eeghan made his sacrifice on the worlds biggest stage, paving the way for a team mate.

In Super Bowl XI, the 6-2, 226 pounder leveled Viking defenders allowing RB Clarence Davis to gain 137 yds on 16 carries for an 8.6 yds per carry average on their way to 429 yds of total offense and the Raiders 1st World Championship.

Bush showed in his limited time on the field he is a legitimate threat as a RB, but his non commital attitude may have cost him reps in 08' and practice squad drifters like Luke Lawton saw time at the position.

After RBs Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden bowed out  due to injures, Bush turned in a 177 yd, 2 TD performance against the collapsing Bucs in week 17 showing he can indeed, tote the rock.

They may not ask Bush to "lower" himself to FB again, but if they do, he may be more willing if he's already a fixture at running back. 

More likely, Oakland may hedge its bets in April, perhaps on the 2nd day of the draft.

Photo Chris O'Meara / AP

#81 WR Chaz Schilens  San Diego State

Taken 226^th overall in the 7^th round of the 08' draft, Schilens was a long shot to make the squad, but showed the fire and desire Davis likes to see.

Schilens hard work and intense study paid dividends when the Raiders under performing and depleted wide out corps saw him named a week 9 starter opposite Javon Walker.

The 6-4, 208 lb Schilens finished with a strong performance week 16 catching 3 passes for 52 yds and a TD.

He’s developing as a blocker and using his big body to chip and seal edges for Raider running backs.

WR Ronald Curry saw significant playing time with Oakland after being taken in the 7^th round. Lets hope Schilens stays healthier and more productive.

If he continues to develop, Oakland may have found another draft steal.

#91 DE Trevor Scott  Buffalo

In his rookie year Scott showed he’s yet another solid development by Raider defensive line coach Keith Millard.

The 6-5 256 lb DE made his presence known on week 7 assisting the Raiders to an over time victory by sacking Jets QB Brett Favre...twice.

Selected 169^th over all in the 6^th round of 2008 draft, Scott finished the year with 24 tackles, a forced fumble and 5 sacks.

In limited action, Scott proved he can be a difference maker as a valuable situational pass rusher. If he can continue to develop his skills and run defense, the Raiders may not miss Derrick Burgess as much when his contract expires next year.

Photo / Reuters

#29 RB Michael Bush  Louisville

Most well versed Raider fans are aware of Bush’s trials an tribulations reaching the NFL, the broken leg his senior year, the risk Oakland took letting him sit and rehab a full year and the pay off Bush produced week 17 against play off hopeful Tampa Bay igniting a Raider offense depleted of the injured Fargas and McFadden.

Bush ran rough shod over the Bucs gaining 177 yds on 27 carries (including 10 in a row to end the game) and scoring 2 of his 3 TDs.

Bush shows graceful power and speed for such a big back.

In limited action, Bush caught 19 passes for 162 yds, threw the ball twice, scored 3 TDs and averaged 4.4 yds per carry.

Chided by some for not embracing a position change to FB after Oakland lost its 2^nd starting FB of the season, Bush sat, seemingly in the dog house most of the year.

The 6-1, 245 lb bruiser was taken 100^th over all in the 4^th round of the 2007 draft and may be one of Oaklands best draft bargains in a long, long time.

#75 T Mario Henderson Florida State

Henderson’s late emergence may shift Oaklands mind set when it comes to draft day.

After suffering unbelievably bad play at left tackle from former 49er 1^st round pick Kwame Harris, Interim head coach Tom Cable finally pulled the plug on his experiment and installed Henderson as JaMarcus Russell’s blind side protector.

The results were dramatic.

The 3^rd yr 6-7, 300 lb tackle immediately helped shore the left side and galvanized the line.

Oakland was criticized for moving up in the 07' draft to get Henderson, who was selected 91^st over all in the 3^rd round. Many uniformed fans wrote him off as a "wasted pick" when he failed to immediately win a starting slot, often appearing on the sidelines in street clothes his rookie year.

A late bloomer, Henderson never played football till his sophomore year of college at FSU and had a lot of work to do, especially in the weight room and in run blocking , but he kept his nose to the grind stone and though he struggled in practice, rose to the challenge when his number was called.

Ones to watch for...

Photo Charlie Riedel / AP

#33 Tyvon Branch S Connecticut

Branch was touted as "the best gunner in the national football League day one" upon his selection in the 2008 draft.

The Raiders moved up again to take the 6-0, 205 lb DB, a selection that quietly drew groans from Raider fans who felt Davis was taking yet another secondary player, when other needs were more pressing, but after researching a little on the hard hitting safety, they quickly recanted.

Unfortunately, Branch broke his hand and wore a cast until early October. Even so, Branch’s devastating hitting style and "football speed" were evidence he is no ordinary special teamer.

Branch injured his shoulder week 9 and was later placed on IR, ending his disappointing rookie campaign.

Not enough can be said about Branch’s potential as a game changing special teams gunner. He constantly breaks double teams and his speed must be seen to be believed.

If he stays healthy Raider fans may see yet another draft bargain light up the field in 09'.

#14 WR Arman Shields Richmond

Shields is another project player who, like RB Michael Bush was injured his senior year.

Though he likely would’ve been able to play this year, Shields was placed on IR to keep him from the clutches of rival teams and keep him on the Raiders roster.

Shields impressed scouts with the 2^nd fastest 40 time at the 08' Combine and laid to rest many fears about his knee injury.

Selected with the Raiders 2^nd 4^th round pick (125^th overall) the 6-2, 185 lb speed demon who has supple hands and a knack for the spectacular catch.

If he can stay healthy, he could go along way toward fixing Oaklands broken passing game.

Photo / Getty Images

                                                                                                        2008 Rookie RB Darren MCFadden

Some say former Raider coach Lane Kiffin missed a huge opportunity to creatively re-imagine the Raiders offensive scheme and missed out on a chance to bring some of the high flying college game to the NFL.

After all, versions of Darren McFadden's "Wild Hog" offense that made him a college super star came into vogue in 08'. 

The Dolphins ran a similar formation with great aplomb early in the season and other teams followed suit using gadget plays and the like to surprise undisciplined defenses.

Its likely Kiffin wouldn’t have gotten a lot accomplished along those lines with the very young talent he had, Bush, McFadden, Russell, Higgins and Zack Miller are all 1^st or second year and have struggled at times in their young careers, but the next season, with some pieces in place, the Raiders could very well start to gel and become a more cohesive team.

Oakland has some serious talent and potential on offense that could, as they showed in later games, be dynamic and creative.

DMC was a disappointment in 08', suffering nagging injuries,(DAMN YOU NIKE!!!) but watching him on two specific plays in the late season Texans victory showed flashes of his potential brilliance.

On the first play, a sweep around left end, McFadden lowered his shoulder and brutalized excellent CB Dunta Robinson who was closing to prevent a 1^st down. Diving toward the stick, the two collided, each trying to punish the other.

A shot of the sideline as Robinson came off the field afterward showed him take of his helmet, toss it aside in disgust and then stagger alarmingly into the 1st down marker.

Replay shows Robinson's eyes bulge the split second McFadden gives him a concussion.

As the former Razor back phenom felt healthier and more comfortable in the scheme, a new McFadden began to emerge both in blocking and contesting yardage. McFadden flexed his muscles and began attacking and blocking defenders with violent ferocity.

Photo / Getty Images

                                                                                                           McFadden against the Texans

The rookie running back demonstrated another of his assets in the Texans victory, sweeping again, around left end.

This time, instead of brute force, McFadden used sheer cornering acceleration.

Often times its difficult to gauge just how fast #20 is going.

Whether its due to his above average heighth for the position, (6-2, 210 lbs) choppy running style (Think OJ before the murdering) or the fact he's been hobbled by a bad toe, DMC showed a controlled burst of acceleration that smoked the Texans defense. A defense that had read and reacted properly, seemingly stopping the play for little or no gain. But a relaxed McFadden accelerated to the rapidly closing gap along the sidelines and simply beat the defenders to the edge, cornering at top speed (and I mean TOP speed) flying past the frip of outstretched defenders and securing enough yards for a drive extending first down.

It was the first time since week 2 he had been able to use his legendary speed effectively to beat an opponent that had the play diagnosed and "contained".

DMC used his acceleration and agility to do what very few RBs can ever do and thats out quick and beat a perfectly executed defensive scheme that 9 times out of 10 would close the breach and stop mortal backs.

But they couldn't.

And thats scary.

How do you defend something that by sheer athleticism and skill can't be stopped even when the defensive plan is drawn up and executed right?

Aside from McFaddens' improving blocking skills and potentially phenomenal ground game. defensive coordinators will also need to content with his burgeoning skills as a wide receiver.

In the Raiders shocking week 16 win over the streaking Texans, Mcfadden caught balls out of the back field and lined up at wide and in the slot, hauling in 5 passes for 41 yds including a 17 yard lob along the sidelines.

Earlier in the game on his first down run along the sidelines, McFadden let his enthusiasm show as he strode high stepping out of bounds, punching his fist in the air.

The kid was excited.

After sneak peaks of his awesome potential, so are we.