Question: Who do you believe is the leader of the Raiders? I don't know who that may be. The Raiders have lacked a leader on their team since Rich Gannon retired. I believe the while the Raiders are improving, they will not advance anywhere until someone like a Rich Gannon steps up. Until that happens, the Raiders problem will continue to be the same - from the neck up.
- Dan Perez, Elk Grove
Answer: It depends on what side of the ball you’re talking about. If it’s defense, the Raiders have leaders in the likes of Warren Sapp and Derrick Burgess. There also are veterans like Tyrone Poole who have been around the game and are a steadying influence on a very young group. When it comes to the leader on offense, that’s definitely up in the air. If you want a leader in the mold of Gannon, someone who will get in players’ faces and be vocal, that guy isn’t there. Barry Sims and Zack Crockett are the most experienced starters and lead by example. The quarterback position is supposed to be one of leadership, but Andrew Walter is still learning on the job. LaMont Jordan has no problem speaking his mind. But none of that really matters until someone on the offense emerges as a consistent performer and earns the respect of his peers.
- Jason Jones
About Comments
Reader comments on Sacbee.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Sacramento Bee. If you see an objectionable comment, click the "report abuse" button below it. We will delete comments containing inappropriate links, obscenities, hate speech, and personal attacks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. See more about comments here.