Question: With Lane Kiffin now coaching this team, do you see Darnell Bing moving back to safety? I think Bing definitely makes sense as a strong safety and Michael Huff could play free safety. Stuart Schweigert can't tackle and can't intercept a pass. I hope I never have to see Derrick Gibson on the field again. Bing in the box and Huff roaming the secondary would be fun to watch.
What do you think?
Take care,
- Adrian, Toronto
Answer: Darnell Bing is a safety again. Kiffin said moving him from linebacker was Bing's best chance to make the team this season.
Bing worked out in Southern California doing defensive back drills in hopes the change would be made. Now he has to prove he has the speed (the big question about him in the draft last year) to play in the secondary.
I don't agree with your assessment of Schweigert. I wouldn't say he can't tackle. He has just two interceptions in three seasons (both in 2005), but in the role he was used last season, interceptions weren't going to be easy to come by. He was there to roam and help over the top. And as the last line of defense, it wouldn't be wise for him to take unnecessary chances and risk receivers getting by him. But we can agree to disagree.
And for now, the Raiders like Huff at strong safety and Schweigert at free safety. But I wouldn't rule out Huff playing free at some point.
And don't worry, Derrick Gibson won't be on the field. He wasn't re-signed and fullback Justin Griffith has been given his number. Bind is a likely candidate to take over Gibson's role as a big safety, especially in short yardage.
- Jason Jones
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