David Dupree Henderson / AP

                                                                                                                                   QB Jamarcus Russell

Russell has had six starts in 08' to begin his long road toward becoming a franchise QB.

Heres the good and the bad so far.

THE SILVER

Despite poor play by Raider wide outs who either can’ t make the field, can’t catch the ball and can’t get separation, Russell has completed 84 out of 164 passes. Thats only 51.2 %, but he has 1,036 yds and 5 TDs.

When he plants his feet and throws, it’s often a laser strike. Against the Jets a leaping defensive lineman actually got a hand on one of Russell’s passes. It bent his fingers back and proceeded on to the waiting receiver with little loss of velocity and barely a wobble.

Russell is also making better decisions with the ball like throwing it away. He has shown good mobility and though many are calling for the 6-6, 260 lb "rookie" to tuck it and run, he has been hesitant to do so.

This is probably because his coaches feel its simply not worth the risk. An injury that sees him miss significant field time would be another serious blow to his learning curve.

As he seasons, expect more dynamic play from this incredibly gifted physically specimen.

Though he’s green, his offense has bought into Russell leadership and calm southern demeanor.

Thats saying a lot for 7 career starts.

Given the deficiencies of his wide outs, his inexperience and some questionable play at tackle, Russell’s QB rating of 76.0 isn’t too bad.

THE BLACK

Russell’s accuracy suffers when he doesn’t set his feet to throw. He is remarkably accurate sometimes on roll outs when he leaves his feet, but its obvious he’s still developing touch and the kind of ESP good QBs and receivers must have.

 Russell ready to strike

Frankly, Russell needs work in all areas of Quarter backing, his mechanics, his reads, his touch on the ball, his pocket awareness, not locking onto targets and decision making.

He did come out his Junior year and almost everyone realized he would need time to develop and that was only going to happen live fire.

Though he has kept his interceptions low with deft play calling and a solid running game, Russell manages to have at least one costly turn over or near turn over in every contest.

In six games, Russell has fumbled six times, losing four.

Some of these can be blamed on poor pocket presence and should slow down in frequency as he develops, but other fumbles simply slipped out of his sizable hands.

Russell has been pressured a lot and so far has been sacked 14 times. Some are bad line play, some are good D play and some are because Russell is waiting for receivers to get open.

Again, live fire is the only way to improve and growing pains are to be expected.

Its really early in Russell’s career and though some of the less informed were calling for him to be benched after the Saints game, Russell is likely to be our QB as long as he is standing because he and the Raiders will have to work out their growing pains together on the field.

Conclusion: Russell shows signs of great things to come as an NFL QB. If he keeps growing, stressing the fundamentals and developing with the game, the Raiders can expect Russell to come into his own as a franchise QB over the next few seasons.

Quarterback Jamarcus Russell

THE SILVER

Russell has one of the best arms ever. Period.

Phenomenally gifted, he combines that physicality with an unassuming, disarming quietness, but commands a lead presence with his work ethic and professional manner.

Russell has worked hard since his signing with Oakland and its beginning to pay.

With the Raiders looking to establish the run and scheming around his strength and limitations, Russell should fair well if the Raiders stay the course and ease him along.

Russell has a solid up bringing and an excellent family support system so its unlikely we’ll see headlines involving the words "Russell" "Arrested" "Hookers" together anytime soon.

THE BLACK

The 6-6, 270 lb. Russell entered the League after his Junior year. In fact, his Junior year was the only really good year he had and a lot remains to be proven.

Russell is noted for his composure, but will need to work on his consistency. In college he relied on his athleticism too much and got away with flawed mechanics too often.

Kiffin will have his work cut out for him if he wants to break him of these habits and make him a success at the Pro level.

Russell has seemed confused and hurried at times which is a major concern considering the faultiness of Oaklands pass protection. He could end up having a typical "Rookie" year and throw a lot of interceptions.

Even Oakland fans aren’t expecting Russell to be the over night messiah and thats probably a good thing.

As talented and gifted as he is, he is not as he said recently "Super man" but with patience and guidance, he could be...

Quarter back Andrew Walter

 Andrew Walter

THE SILVER

The former ASU Sun Devil threw for over ten thousand yds during his college career and has demonstrated the ability to stand in and deliver strikes when given time.

He’s studied hard and won the respect of the players and organization and seems to have made a home for himself in Oakland. He likely could go to many teams and have a legitimate shot at holding down the #2.

Though he’s tall, the 6-6, 230 lb Walter is a lot more mobile than people give him credit for.

He’s got a big arm and can deliver the deep strike. He’s also very accurate short to intermediate and has good mechanics.

He’s earned his stripes with the players and if needed he could step in and command the huddle.

THE BLACK

Many thought the monumental beating Walter took during the 06' campaign would’ve broken most QB’s and at the least, some of them stated he would need at least a year to recover.

Oakland felt the same and hired Daunte Culpepper and Josh McCown to see them through Russell’s 1^st season.

This move had many thinking Walter was expendable especially considering the Matt Schaub trade from Atlanta to Houston and the fact there were few League options for solid back ups at the position.

It wasn’t unexpected McCown and Culpepper left, the general consensus was their year in Oakland was little more than an audition before Russell came on line, but still it was felt Walter would join them in seeking employment elsewhere.

Whether Walter has recovered from his humiliating beating at the hands of the Slater, Shell, Eatman debacle remains to be seen, but kudos to him for not thinking of selling cars or going back to college after 06'.

Marques Tuiasosopo

"Tui" 

THE SILVER

"Tui" has the physical gifts and accuracy to work well in the "West Coast" type of offense Kiffin and the Raiders espouse.

He was originally drafted for just such a system during the productive Rich Gannon era, but found himself on the outs after Gruden left for Tampa Bay.

He’ll get another shot to make a place for himself in Oakland and has had a few years now to get up to speed.

THE BLACK

Though he can scramble, one of the few times he saw action as a Raider, he blew his knee out doing just that.

Though the 6-1, 220 lb QB was taken 59^th overall in the 2^nd round of the 2001 draft by the Raiders, he was released and spent an unremarkable year with the QB challenged Jets and failed to make a dent.

His leadership and composure have all been called into question and after several years in the League, he’s not climbing the wish lists of many teams looking for a potential starter.

So far in camp, he’s been out shined by Walter for the #2 and has made several bad throws.

All in all, Oakland should compensate for its QB inadequacies with a solid running game and a scheme designed to take pressure off of them, but if Russell falls flat, the Raiders could find themselves in a lot of trouble.

Walter, for the most part is unproven. He barely had time to take the snap, let alone drop and set up for throws in 06', so he remains almost as much of an unknown as Russell.

Tui on the other hand is known and its not all good.

He has a lot to prove. Oakland just hopes he’s not asked to do it anytime soon with them.

Paul Sakuma / AP                                                         Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan

Some fans still think Ryan should have been the one fired.

He is after all "in charge of the D" and they have been horrid against the run ever since, well, ever since Warren Sapp signed on. Now that the mouth that bored has moved on to meaner pastures, Oaklands defense has quietly improved in all aspects.

At DT, Tommy Kelly has been relatively quiet, but his constant double teams (olot of whcih he breaks) are freeing up his fellow brawlers in the middle.

Terdell Sands is quietly dominating the LOS and Gerard Warren has put togehter a few very productive games.

Oaklands secondary has faultered thats for sure, but its likely something DB coach Darren Perry and D Hall will get worked out, especially if Oakland keeps getting pressure at the defensive core.

DE Kalimba Edwards is slowly erasing the memory of Chris Clemmons and hopefully, D Burg will be healed enough to begin contributing more big time sacks like he did against Brodie Croyle and KC.

Don't even have to mention the LBs.

Oakland has a very young defense that is learning and finally beginning to gel together.

Its starting to show on the field.

Ryan has done a good job of bringing this team along, keeping them motivated and focused.

Truthfully anyone watching the games this year with Oakland can tell this is not the same old defense we've sported the last 5 years.

They are getting respect and attention around the league and especially from the teams that have faced them so far in 08'.

If not for the blow out opener against Denver, Oakland would be much more highly ranked.

Again, with the exception of Denver, the Raiders have played solid football and thruth be told, it wasn't Ryan, it wasn't the prevent, it was some good play by Oaklands opponents and bad substitions at critical junctures.

Against the Bills and on the goal line Oaklands defense had the right side protected by scrubs Fred Wakefield, Safety Gibril Wilson and LB Jon Alston. result? 3 yd TD Bills and the beginning of an epic collapse.

Same thing happened against SD.

Critical plays, 2nd, 3rd string players and rookies on the field. Result? Big plays that shifted the game and saw leads evaporate.

Whats more likely the cause of these substitutions than bad coaching or sabotage is the fact Oaklands conservative offensive play calling and inability to generate a 1st down has had our D tuckered, dinged up and riddled with rookies and subs.

Ryan has a good D and has called some aggresive games this year and Oaklands wounded defense is improved.

As of this week,the Raiders defense is 18th against the run and 20th against the pass. L.T. was the 1st 100yd rausher against us and 41 of that was on one run against you guessed it, a 2nd stringer.

For those who'd lobbying to have him hoisted from the yard arm, Ryan's not the problem this year. Kiffin and the media circus that followed was. What the media missed while clambering onto the "We hate Al bandwagon" and lost in their 4th quarter collapses was the fact the Raiders have been playing some very good, competetive football.

Oakland Raider Running back Justin Fargas

THE SILVER

Speed, size and power augment a down hill rushing style that defines "Huggy Bear’s baby!" He finally got a chance last year to show what he can do subbing for oft injured Lamont Jordan and took full advantage.

Averaging over 100 yds a game, on December 16^th against the Colts he broke the 1,000 yd mark.

At the end of the season, Fargas had 1.009 yds and 4 TDs on 222 carries.

THE BLACK

Though Fargas did break a thousand yards and earned himself a fat contract extension, he sat immediately after.

His "break out" game week 4 against Miami in which he gained 179 yds on 22 carries came against a Dolphin defense without a middle line backer.

Channing Crowder and starter Zach Thomas were out.

At 6-1, 220 lb. Fargas’ headlong, upright running style coupled with terrible field vision sees him absorbing crushing hits on a regular basis. Add this to the fact others have accused him of "sitting because of a hang nail" means his toughness and durability are still a question.

He has been injured several times in his career even though he' has never been considered an "every down back" and until last year, saw modest action.

He needs to work on receiving and blocking, especially in pass protection.

07' was a contract year for the former 3^rd rounder out of USC, but despite lingering questions, Fargas signed a 3 yr. extension reportedly worth $12 million with half of that guaranteed.

Some who’ve followed him in Oakland still aren’t convinced he’s not just in it for the money, citing his spotty injury history and inconcsistency. Others note his flailing running style and inability to slip hits could be part of the problem, but either way, a player is no good if they can’t make the field.

With Oaklands success dependant on the run, Fargas’ health will continue to be a concern.

Conclusion:

All in all, if used sparingly as a change of pace back, Fargas should be able to contribute and even excel in the new ZBS.

If he can stay healthy.

Oakland Raider Running back Darren McFadden

THE SILVER

One of the fastest and most exciting game breakers in years, McFadden lit up the College ranks and secured himself a top slot in the 2008 draft.

He’s big at a Fargasesque 6-1, 220 lbs, but deceptively agile, reads blocks well, has great anticipation and is faster than lightning.

He can also catch, block and in a pinch, throw.

He’s better than people give him credit for and has a well rounded game.

He’s also an intelligent man who understands the game of football. Coming from a harsh, difficult upbringing, McFadden has remained humble and professional so far in his young career.

Those unfamiliar with his prowess could be in for a shock at how well he does running behind Oakland’s newly installed and incredibly effective, Zone Blocking System and others amazed at his versatility.

In the years to come  fans could see him evolve into a Brian Westbrook type contributor.

THE BLACK

A college phenom at running back and the Raiders 4^th selection of the 2008 draft, McFadden will be asked to produce right away.

Not as much of a problem for the position and his skill set, but there are flaws in the former Razorback's game.

Never forced to polish some of the finer details, opposing teams will look to exploit every weakness.

Hand placement, switching the ball automatically to the sideline, securing the ball with both hands on contact and other minor details that can make a difference in the outcome of games and seasons.

Oakland will use the off season to help him in these areas, but he’ll continue to be a work in progress through out and beyond 08'.

Many pointed out the fact Arkansas’ "Wild Hog " formation, which often saw McFadden taking snaps in the Shotgun formation, could make the transition to the NFL more difficult.

A lot of Raider fans and most notably, NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, also pointed out before the draft ,that Mcfadden "...went down too easily and stopped running on 1^st contact."

McFadden’s frame has been called into question, prompting some to worry about his "chicken legs" getting injured at the pro level.

He also has a rep for putting the ball on the ground, but this is misleading.

A majority of the fumbles Mcfadden experienced in college can be attributed to bad snaps and special teams gaffes, but Coaches have been working with him in camp to hold the ball more securely.

Off field issues haunted DMC pre draft, with stories of bar fights, his brothers belonging to both the Bloods and Crips and his Mother’s unfortunate addiction to drugs were all reason for concern, but undaunted, Davis pulled the trigger.

So far, not much news coming out of camp other than McFadden is looking very good preliminarily. He will be scrutinized very closely, especially if anything happens to distract from his rookie campaign.

Conclusion:

McFadden has physical gifts that come along once a generation.

He’s smart, he’s a "football player" and so far, is looking like a great addition and upgrade to the Raiders 6^th overall rushing unit. 

As long as he can stay healthy, the heady, dynamic running back should provide enough fire works to make Oakland a legitimate offensive threat and give the the scoring ability to put W’s on the board.

If he plays to potential, 08' could be epic.

Oakland Raider Running back Michael Bush

THE SILVER

Most Raider fans are aware of Michael Bush, few are aware of what an accomplished football player he is.

He's smart, he's strong and can catch out of the back field along with  picking up serious yardage on the ground.

He has the size and will to bash his way for extra yardage and breaks most arm tackles.

At 6-3, 250, Bush could be an unwelcome sight to the Leagues second level defenders, especially in space.

Not only is he big, he has remarkable speed. He’s often able to get to the edge and reel off long gainers.

Bush is a complete unknown to the NFL, but if he can realize the potential he showed his Junior year at Louisville when he gained 1,143 yds and scored and amazing 23 TDs, Oakland will have gotten a steal for its 4^th round, 2007 draft pick.

THE BLACK

Bush’s excellent Junior campaign showed every sign of continuing his Senior year as he started strong, rushing for 129 yds and scoring 3 Tds in the 1^st half of Louisville’s 1^st game, but a broken fibula in the second half saw his College career come to an abrupt end.

Though he is a smart, talented footballer, it’s a fact he hasn’t set foot on a field of competition in over 2 years.

Though he has good top end speed, it takes a while for him to get there. As one might imagine he isn’t the most nimble back on the field either and the fact he’s been singled out in camp for keeping his pads too high will have to be addressed if he’s to become a solid short yardage back in the NFL.

Early word from camp indicates he needs alot of work in pass protection if he's to live up to his "every down" potential.

Conclusion:

His stamina, once thought to be an attribute, could be tested due to such a long absence, but Bush has the size, speed, hands and power to be an every down back that can wear on defenses late in games. He could be a real attribute to the Raiders.

The big 3 at DT

With Hall of fame candidate Warren Sapp off the map, Oakland looks to improve its suffering defense from within.

Terdell Sands

THE SILVER

In 2006 Sands showed signs of becoming a dominant line man who commanded double teams.

 The result? Derrick Burgess went to the Pro Bowl and Warren Sapp should have.

Racking up 41 tackles, a sack, a pick and 4 deflections sparked Oakland to open its wallet and lock him up.

 If Sands can rebound in 08', the Raiders should be in much better shape along the line.

THE BLACK

Unsubstantiated rumor has it Sands lost family members in 2007.

A drop off in motivation and production would be more than understandable, but I can't find mention of it anywhere out side of forums.

I've heard this before and if true, my condolences. If not true, my condolences to fans who saw Sands under perform and finish the year with only 24 tackles despite the incentive of a lot of Raider money.

Listed at 6-7, 335 lbs., (riiiiight), much has been made of that large contract he received in 07' and subsequent under production.

The 4 year deal is back end loaded and reportedly worth around $17 million dollars.

It paid Sands his base salary of $800, 000 in 2007, but will ramp up as his contract goes along, earning him $1.2 million in 2008, $1.3 in 09' and if he's still on the roster, $4.6 million in 2010.

Fans are hoping for a big improvement in 08', which is achievable if he learns how to make the best use of his strength, learns to follow the ball, sharpens his technique and shores up his tackling. Raider fans will be watching to see if he comes into his own this year.

Its time.

Same for Gerard Warren.

Gerard Warren

THE SILVER

One of the finest one gap penetrators in the League. When he's on, Warren's bull rush is unstoppable.

 Size, power, speed, technique. He's got it all.

He'll get a chance to work on his consistency this year as, at least at this early stage, he figures to start along side Tommy Kelly, with Sands in rotation.

The 30 yr. old has lots of gas left in the tank and if he begins to live up to his potential, the Raiders may have gotten a steal and a key to shoring its appauling run defense.

THE BLACK

Warren bounced from Cleveland to Denver and then to Oakland and hasn't yet lived up to his vaunted 1^st round status. Taken 3rd over all in the 2001 draft, he was eventually part of a Browns trade that swapped so many of its defensive players, some began calling the Bronco's defense, "the Brownco's".

Denver felt they had a winner in Warren and awarded him a large contract, then injuries and politics came into play and led to the man they call "Big Money" leaving the Broncos and his eventual defection to the Bay.

The 6-4, 325 lb Warren joined Oakland as a surprise pick up 3 weeks after Broncos training camp closed.

Warren was shopped by the Broncos even though he agreed to a dramatic reduction in salary in the spring of 07' from around $4 million to the League minimum for veterans, $595, 000.

Instead, Denver went another direction with its defensive scheme (unsuccessfully I might add.) and the Raiders acquired him for a conditional 5^th round pick in 2008. (Arizona RB Ryan Torain ended up being the Broncos pick)

Reports state the Raiders didn't attempt to rework his contract, instead offering him a $2 million dollar bonus if he performed in 50% of all defensive snaps, but he is due $4 million in 08' and $4.63 in 09' and $4.68 in 2010 unless he's gone.

He missed games last year, first with a thigh injury during the bye week and again later with a quadriceps.

When he was on the field he seemed an improvement over the lack luster Sands, making 4 sacks (one for a Safety against the Broncos.) 22 tackles and a forced fumble in the 12 games he appeared.

If Warren can finally get more consistent and stay healthy, he can apply pressure on passing downs that may require a double team, Add the relentless tenacity of Tommy Kelly to the mix and the Raiders may be onto something.

Tommy Kelly

THE SILVER

The former Mississippi Stater saw very limited action in his rookie year as an undrafted free agent in 2004, but was able to post 4 sacks including 3 in a row from weeks 7 thru 9. He tallied 20 tackles and forced 3 fumbles as well.

In 05' the Raiders moved away from the 3-4 defense and Kelly proved himself again, this time as a run stuffing right end, but it wasn't until he moved back to DT that his sacks started to come again.

In week 9 Kelly racked up 3 sacks against Kansas City and finished the year with 4.5 adding 47 tackles and another 3 forced fumbles.

68 tackles a forced fumble and 4 more sacks saw Kelly definitely coming into his own in 06'.

In 07' Kelly was again on pace for a solid year until the injury that sidelined him, tallying 30 tackles and a sack.

On the outside Kelly's contract may look like folly, but considering the X factor of his versatility, the fact he's been game changingly productive on a poor Raider defensive front and the many teams rumored to be interested in him his free agent year, the move starts to make more sense.

THE BLACK

Much was made at the time of Kelly's contract signing this off season and it is remarkable that a former free agent walk on with so few stats could be given the largest contract ever awarded the position.

Adding to the surprise was the fact Kelly endured reconstructive knee surgery in the off season after an injury week 8 against the Titans saw him miss the rest of the year.

Still, at $50 million dollars over 7 years with $25.125 over the next 3 years and $18.125 million in guarantees, theres a lot to prove

If he comes on like Oakland expects and has a career year, it will certainly help silence critics of Davis' offer.

No one is really sure if Kelly is worth the money paid or how well he's healed, so until he proves himself, it will remain a question.

His lack of experience has shown on occasion and he tends to bite on play fakes too often, but that could change with Coaching and experience.

2007 will be telling not only for Kelly, but the Raiders as a whole.

Like a microcosm of the Raiders entire team, the defensive tackle spot holds the potential for pay off or peril in 08'.

With a cellar dwelling run defense the past 5 years, combined with the big contracts awarded the past 2, fans are cautiously expecting a lot from the big men in the trenches, and Oakland will need it if they are to improve next season and in the years to come.

Fans are also hoping Al Davis made the right call selecting RB Darren McFadden over vaunted defensive tackle Glen Dorsey who went with the very next pick to division rival KC.

With the help of Mcfadden, the Raiders appear to be hoping to put up points and force other opponents away from the run.

If their DT's don't show marked improvement and continue to play like they have in recent memory, they better hope the plan works.

Editor's note: Included in the article "Can Raider DT Wiliam Joseph over come his "Giant" problems?

orig. published Monday, June 09, 2008

 Can Raider DT Joseph overcome his "Giant" problems?

Oakland Raiders Defensive end Jay Richardson

THE SILVER

Richardson, a 6-6, 280 lb. Ohio State alum has shown growth and promise after being signed as an un drafted free agent last year.

Already this off season he looks like hes been working hard on rushing the passer from the defensive end position at mandatory mini’s this year, but it won’t be until the pads are put on 3 days from now that the picture will be come clearer.

Richardson is big, physical, surprisingly solid against the run and one of Oaklands better tacklers.

Smart, and athletic enough to develop into a solid every down player, he could stake his claim on the right defensive end position with a good showing at camp and pre season.

THE BLACK

He saw time filling in for inuries along the line, but the fact remains, last year, Richardson had only one sack.

He won praise for his on field performance in 07' especially against the run and early mini camps this off season show he has used the down time to work on his game.

Coach Kiffin noticed, stating, "I think Jay’s developing a pass rush. Thats what he lacked last year. He played the run very well for us and has continued to improve on that. The pass rushing and 3^rd down part of it, we didn’t leave him out very much because of that last year. We’re giving him a shot again to take that. We’re not going to rotate just to rotate. If we can find a guy that can do both, we’ll leave that guy in there the whole time. Jay knows where he needs to improve to play more."

Richardson was a pleasant surprise for the Oakland faithful who’ve watched their D struggle mightily against the run, but he’ll have to make serious improvements to his overall game if he wants to be Kiffin's every down DE.

Until then, he has the size and speed to anchor an end in the Raiders red zone 3-4, but will need to develop counter moves since, in pass rush he can become frustrated once his initial move is thwarted.

Preliminarily, it looks like he is working hard to rectify that.

Oakland Raiders Defensive end Derrick Burgess

THE SILVER

Picked up from the Philadelphia Eagles, Burgess spent most of his time there on IR  after a decent rookie campaign where he made six sacks.

Back to back season ending Injuries and an apparent glut at the position saw him depart for Oakland.

Raider fans could not be happier.

Double digit sacks and subsequent Pro Bowl appearances both in 05' and 06' confirmed the Raiders good fortune.

As witnessed by his trips to the big island, Burgess can be excellent in pass rush. Recent writer polls have him one of the top 10 DE’s in the League, even with an off 07'.

Much has been made over Burgess’ contract in the media, but the All Pro defensive end, to his credit, has had very little to say about the matter in public.

In 2008, look for him to put forth maximum effort to regain his lofty position as a top caliber pass rusher, if not for pride alone, then to leverage a better contract in 09', when he will have one year remaining on his original deal with Oakland.

THE BLACK

As mentioned, if Burgess puts up big numbers, it could spark a bidding war Oakland might not choose to win.

He slipped last year due in part to Warren Sapp’s ill advised weight loss and subsequent under production and a nagging calf injury didn’t help matters.

He failed to have the impact fans had come to expect, but could do alot to improve his stock with a good season in 08'.

Despite making 40 tackles and recording 8 sacks, 07' was considered by most to be a disappointment.

Sadly, f he makes the Pro Bowl again, don’t expect him back in Silver and Black in 09'.

Stranger things have happened, but to see him rewarded a top dollar contract ala’ Dwight Freeney or more recently Will Smith of the New Orleans Saints (who signed a six year deal worth roughly $70 million) seems unlikely.

The injury prone 6-2, 260 lb. Burgess, who will be 30 in August, will need to show Oakland or other teams in the market that he can stay healthy and produce consistent pressure. If he can reach double digit sacks again in 08', he'll likely be a very hot commodity, making it even harder for Oakland to keep him in Alameda, but if miracles happen and Oakland suddenly gets competetive, who knows?

Oakland Raider Defensive end Kalimba Edwards

THE SILVER

Coming out of South Carolina in 2002, Kalimba Edwards was viewed as one of the premier pass rushes in the nation, who’s size and speed wreaked havoc on offensive linemen.

Garnering him notice besides his ferocious pass rush and remarkable physique was the fact Edwards was and is an accomplished tackler, getting low in his pads and wrapping up opponents, snagging them with his massive 11 inch hands or engulfing them in his 35 inch wing span.

The 6-6, 265 lb. Edwards showed enough potential for Detroit to snap him up in the 2^nd round with the 35^th overall selection.

Year one, Edwards led the Lions with 6.5 sacks in 16 starts, but missed all of camp the next year with off season hernia surgery. He had big games in 03', but was inconsistent.

Despite the promising year, he was injured, tearing a groin muscle and in December, was placed on IR.

Kalimba (which means "Prince" inAfrican) came back strong in 04', applying pressure and the ability to have big games late in the year.

He played big in 2005 recording a career high 7 sacks and was instrumental in securing several wins late in the 4^th quarter causing game altering fumbles and turn overs.

In 2006, he posted a career high 54 tackles after a shift in Defensive thinking saw Cory Redding move to DT. Again, Kalimba recovered and caused turn overs that helped decide games.

He started 2007 strong having a career game against Oakland with six tackles and 2 sacks. (His performance saw the Silver and Black turn white. Many of them fearing the offensive line woes of 06' would continue into 07'. Fortunately, they didn’t.)

but a knee injury saw him miss action and he was inactive games 13-16.

Despite signing a 5 year extension heading into 2006, the Lions frustration and with the specter of a $3.9 million dollar cap hit, Detroit let him walk.

Oakland seems to be very good at evaluating and ushering talent at defensive end with Derrick Burgess and the emergence last year of Chris Clemmons who departed for Philadelphia this off season and Edwards has the ability to become a sleeper this year when paired with the Pro Bowl caliber Burgess.

THE BLACK

Through out college Edwards displayed a tendency to struggle against larger linemen and become stymied quickly if his initial burst and move were thwarted. It was felt he relied to much on his athleticism, which was impressive enough to allow him to smoothly fade back into coverage when called upon, something yet to be exploited fully so far in his career.

He’s also suffered injuries and inconsistencies.

Edwards left Lions fans frustrated, playing out of his mind big and then disappearing for weeks at a time.

Injuries sidelined him in the past and will remain a concern, but if used right, (management of resources is something Kiffin is very good at) Edwards could be another Raider find.

Oakland Raider Defensive End Greg Spires

THE SILVER

The 10 year veteran started off in College as a back up LB and although considered small for the job, migrated to defensive end.

Spires finally saw real action his Senior year at Florida State University, but missed some games with injuries. He did make productive use of his time on the field, collecting 115 tackles and 18 sacks, 10 of them in his final season.

Drafted 83^rd overall in the 3^rd round of the 1997 NFL draft by the New England Patriots, Spires left after 3 seasons for Cleveland where he played only one season. He started 4 games and appeared in all 16, tallying 4 sacks.

In 2002, now an unrestricted free agent, he signed with the Bucs and made his mark opposite players like Simeon Rice as part of one of the NFL’s best defenses through 2003-2005.

When healthy, he’s proven an aggressive tackler with explosive quickness and excellent back side pursuit. He comes off the corner well and is impressive in one gap penetration.

He uses good leverage and has surprising explosiveness for his size.

THE BLACK

His size.

He looks more like a line backer at 6-1, 265 lbs. large linemen lock on and wash him out of plays.

The fact he’s going to be 32 in August, combined with a $4 million dollar roster bonus due was too much Tampa decided, for a player likely to be fourth in the DE rotation and the off season saw the Bucs cut him loose. Missing six games due to a calf injury last year didn’t help.

As part of a rotation, Oakland could milk some production from the spry Spires, but his best days are likely behind him.

That is if he makes the team.

Next time: Defensive ends (second installment)

Line backer play in Oakland especially of late, has served as a slap to those who've lament Oaklands "Consistently terrible drafts", with Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard emerging, but their are still questions concerning "the Firm" holding court in the Raiders LB corps.

Oakland Raider LB,Thomas Howard

THE SILVER

Selected 38^th overall in the 2^nd round of the 2006 NFL draft, former UTEP line backer Thomas Howard has proved initial doubters wrong.

Though thought of as a fine linebacker and being named Second Team All WAC after a fine Junior campaign, Howard faltered his Senior year and slipped to the 2^nd round.

Some critics felt Oakland drafted him too high simply because "Al Davis loves tangibles!" and the 6-3, 240 lb. Howard ran an impressive 4.44 40 at the 06' combine.

Howard had an impact and was named a starter by then Coach Art Shell *shudder* and finished the year with 110 tackles, but really came alive his Sophomore year as a Raider. Showing off excellent cover skills Howard shocked offensive coordinators by snagging an interception in Oaklands first 4 games. Howard finished the year with 6, taking 2 of them back for touch downs.

96 tackles, a sack and 11 passes defensed rounded out an excellent 07' campaign

THE BLACK

Though Howard makes plays all over the field, he, like the Raiders D as a whole, tends to over pursue on running plays and are susceptible to cut backs and re-directs.

Howard’s ability to stack and shed is a work in progress and whether he can effectively and consistently rush the passer is still to be decided. Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan may let slip the dogs of war this season, but last year especially, LB blitzes were few and far between and when they did come were in the form of blitzes against the run.

Much has been made and correctly so about Oaklands under achieving front line, but injuries played a part last year, so Howard gets a pass.

Discipline and better diagnosis should come in time. Because of his high caliber of play some forget 08' will be Howard’s "Junior year".

Oakland Raider LB (Captain) Kirk Morrison

THE SILVER

Fans of Star Trek remember the over emoting, green alien humping Captain of the Enterprise and smile fondly, but fans of the Raider Nation smile when they think of their "Captain Kirk".

Taken 78^th overall in the 3^rd round of the 2005 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders was a child hood fantasy come true for Morrison, who, born in Oakland, has been a life long Raider fan thanks to his loving Father.

His performance since then has been nothing short of fantastic too.

In his rookie outing, the instinctive and athletic Morrison racked up 91 tackles, defended 2 passes and recovered 2 fumbles. Impressive, but in 2006 Morrison showed he was becoming an elite player at the mike line backer position garnering 102 tackles, 5 passes defensed, 2 picks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and a sack.

Adding to the horror felt by offensive coordinators over team mate Thomas Howard’s interception ratio after 3 games was Morrison’s interception tally as well as he snagged a pick in each of the first 3 games of the 07' season.

Named team "Captain" the 6-2, 240 lb. Morrison led the Raiders in tackles last year with 120, a sack and 10 deflections.

THE BLACK

Morrison is becoming one of the premier line backers in the League, but again has been plagued by over pursuit and a weak performance by an often dinged front four.

Considered too valuable in coverage to blitz much, some think Morrison’s game is un even, but if I’m right, Morrison will get more shots at the QB in 08'.

Theirs not a lot to dislike about Morrison or his play. The proof is on the field, but in an attempt to shore their appalling run D has former Raven by way of Atlanta line backer Ed Hartwell, who will try to win a spot on the Oakland roster. Hartwell, suffered a well publicized knee injury after jumping ship to the Falcons. He’ll try and revive his career in Oakland and if he can could have a positive effect on Oaklands D.

The only twinge for Raider fans is the possibility he could take over the mike line backer job and boot Morrison to the out side.

Camp starts July 24^th and it remains to be seen if Hartwell will make the squad at all, but is something involved fans and bookies will be watching.

posted 07-16-08 Mykle Van Hausen

 Hall and Asomugha

Off season sparks flew as the Raiders finalized a deal that brought Pro Bowl caliber Corner back DeAngelo Hall into the Raider fold. Teamed across from one of the Leagues best Corners in 5 yr vet Nnamdi Asomugha, Oakland could be adding another set of DB's to NFL networks countdown of "Top 10 Corner back tandems of all time."

 If the Raiders can settle the volatile Hall and sign the franchised Asomugha long term. 

Oakland Raider CB Nnamdi Asomugha

THE SILVER

Most Raider fans know it took a while for Asomugha to pay dividends, but he did in 2006, posting 50 tackles (48 solo), a forced fumble, a sack and 8 interceptions, one for a touchdown. A late phone call kept him from Hawaii and a trip to that years Pro Bowl.

Brought along slowly by Oakland, Asomugha finally arrived.

Critics who laughed at another "wasted" 1^st round pick by Al Davis (31^st overall 1^st round of the 2003 draft) and those who labeled him a "bust", were forced in 06' to eat their words.

The 6-2, 210 lb. Asomugha is now considered one of the Leagues elite cover corners. Something Raider fans already knew.

THE BLACK

Fans of the silver and black are also aware of the fact Tuesday came and went, with no agreement on a long term contract reached by the deadline and leaving Asomugha to either, A. Sign the franchise tender making him over $9.456 million dollars richer, or B. Hold out.

Rumor has it Asomugha may be stipulating he not be franchised again next year before showing up to camp or signing anything.

Speculation at this point, but suffice it say, Al Davis won’t likely let his young, home grown shut down corner go.

At least not with out a fight.

Though he’s being paid by the Packers now, fans remember the ghost of Charles Woodsen and his mythic dispute after 2 franchise tags.

Though one never knows with Al, thankfully, this doesn’t seem to be the case with Asomugha.

Even if Nnamdi misses camp, odds are he’ll be ready to play when its time because he’s a consumate professional and needs to prove in 08', 06' wasn’t a fluke. In 07' he went untested as teams ran successfully and / or threw the other way.

Oakland Raider CB DeAngleo Hall

THE SILVER

In mid March, the Raider Nation celebrated as Oakland acquired CB DeAngelo Hall ala’ a sensational off season trade with a Falcon team that resembled the second "burning of Atlanta".

Al Davis and the Raiders were taking steps to make sure teams throw Nnamdi’s way in 08'.

The 5-10, 197 lb. Hall joined the Raiders after an embarrassing on field blow up and the storm of controversy surrounding interim Coach Bobby Petrino’s abandonment of Atlanta and cowardly retreat to the college ranks and Razor back country.

Hall and Atlanta also decide to part ways.

Aside from the unpleasantness generated down south, Hall has been a play maker if not a shut down corner and thats one of the reasons Mr Davis put up a 2^nd round pick (34^th overall) in 2008 and a 5^th rounder in 2009, securing a deal worth $66.28 million over 7 years with another $3 million in escalators.

Why? Hall started 55 games over 4 seasons with the Falcons tallying 233 tackles and 17 picks, 5 of them last year alone. Hall also defensed 16 passes in 07'.

He is an inspirational leader and a dynamic, if excitable force, something Oakland lacks on defense, especially with Warren Sapps retirement this off season.

Hall and Asomugha form what many considered one of the best CB duo’s in football.

THE BLACK

Despite being fined $100, 000 for a sideline out burst against Coach Petrino in week 3 last year, Hall, days later, spoke with the press about his preference to former Coach Jim Mora over him. Then when team mate DT Grady Jackson was let go Hall went public criticizing the move again in the press as "asinine."

Hall may be out spoken and his mouth could get him into trouble. (especially if Oakland continues to lose.) Yes, he may struggle at times against the run, and gambles sometimes, but all in all, Hall seems to be more silver at this point than black.

Next time:

THE LINEBACKERS

Oakland Raider Safety, Gibril Wilson 

The off season upgrade to Gibril Wilson at Safety could be key to fixing a broken Raider defense that has been awful against the run.

Wilson lead all Safeties in tackles last year and helped the Giants secure their place in history as unlikley Super Bowl Champions.

Raider Safety Gibril Wilson

If February, the 6-0, 209 lb. Wilson signed a 6 year, $39 million dollar deal with the Raiders with a guarantee of $16 million.

It seems like a tremendous sum (at the moment anyway) but if Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan is right (and he is) Wilson could be one of the key ingredients to stopping the break away runs that have plagued Oakland for so long.

Watching and re watching games reveals Oakland can  be stiff against the run but long gainers hurt them not only statistically but in games won and lost.

Wilson is durable, starting 51 games over his 4 years with the Giants and over the past 3 has averaged over 101 tackles.

He's smart, takes good angles, durable, blitzes well, can tackle.and, oh yeah, covers too. He has 11 career picks. And counting...

The Black

Wilson has yet to prove himself one way or another in Silver and Black, but with DB Coach Darren Perry and a Super Bowl behind him, fans have high hopes. With a fairly complete game theirs not much to grouse about, but if Wilson struggles, look for fans to decend on Rob Ryan for his controversial D.

Oakland Raider Safety, Michael Huff 

The Silver

Michael Huff has become the target of some ancy Raider fans who think his 7th overall selection in the 2006 draft may have been a waste.

Huff has struggled against the run, but can hardly be held accountable alone for the Raiders appauling run D. He displayed play making ability for the Long horns and helped Texas win a Championship, but has yet to display those traits in the NFL.

Many point to the slow development of CB team mate Nnamdi Asomugha and figure THIS is the year for Huff to come into his own. 

The 6-0, 205 lb. Huff has excelled in coverage of some of the Leagues finest TE's including San Diego's Antonio Gates and KC's Hall of Fame bound Tony Gonzales, but some think he's one dimensional and out of place at the "Strong Safety" position.

In 2008, he moves to free safety...sort of.

The Black

With the injuries and under performance along Oaklands defensive line in 07', the secondary suffered as well. Running backs charged untouch through gaping holes in the Raider D, forcing ill equiped secondary personnel to try and save the play.

With an anemic offense putting them in tight spots, the Raiders defense struggled as a whole, not just the secondary and certainly not just Michael Huff.

With a few seasons under his belt though, the "rookie + unique scheme" excuse won't hold water much longer.

Moving Huff "back" to Free Safety has many encouraged, but the fact is Rob Ryan runs a defensive design called "Cover-O" out of a 4-3 base that is  predicated on man coverage.

Personal accountability is paramount in such a radical scheme (other teams use it, but none as a base) and even more so considering Oaklands D is designed to stop the pass. The logic being Oakland's new offensive weapons will begin putting up points, forcing opponents to abandon the run at some point and throw against their world class coverage.

The move for Huff to "free safety" may not be as radical as some think, but he should be schooled up and ready to play rather than think this year and it should be readily apparent either way.  08' will be telling for Ryan and Huff. Either they'll succeed in 08', or one of them will be labeled or one of them will be labled a "bust".

Reserves:

The Silver

At 6-2, 200 lbs.Hiram Eugene has the size and speed to play Cover O and showed some skills in coverage. His launch and shoulder tackle against diving Bronco TE Tony Scheffler was one for the highlight reels, catching Sheffler in the short ribs and sending into the locker room.

4th round 2008 selection Tyvon Branch adds depth and special teams play adding "Possibly the best gunner in the League day one." according to analyst Mike Mayock of NFL Network.

He's shown some chops early on in preliminary camps too.

The Black

Eugene takes bad angles and relies on his athetisism too much. He's green and will need more time to season. He'll struggle if forced on the field prematurely.

Branch will need time as well to adjust to a pro system and though hopes are high, he was taken more for his coverage and return abililties in special teams. He could develop into a starter, but likely not in the near future.

All in all, Oakland looks much improved at the safety position, though quality depth is a concern, if everyone stays healthy it should translate to wins. 

Next time: Secondary pt. 2 "The Corners"