Before moving on another immediate area of need, wide receiver, I’ll address some more questions about the defensive line.
And by the way, for those of you that hate me for having a little fun with the Al Davis deal today, it’s all good.
For those of you who liked it, congrats on having a sense of humor. I don't hate Al Davis. As I've stated before, I grew up a BIG Raider fan.
I know Randy (I'm in a good mood) Moss had to be traded and Norv Turner was 9-23. But you have to admit you never thought it would be Norv standing in between Randy’s quest for a Super Bowl ring.
Question: Why do you think we need to take a DT high in the first round? History proves that ones line can be addressed in the middle of the draft. Rod Coleman, Grady Jackson, and Richardson all were drafted by the Raiders in the middle rounds. If the Raiders have a shot to take McFadden at 3 or 4, they better jump on it. Smart Raider fan says we were 4-12 last year, and that we are building for the next 5 years, not reloading for 2008. We have our QB now it is time to get our RB in round 1 and WR in round 2.
Michael, Honolulu
Answer: Because it’s the Raiders biggest need and it hasn’t been addressed in a long time. Coleman and Jackson were drafted several years ago.
Also history would show you can find a running back, especially one for the Raiders’ system, later in the draft. Also the Raiders will probably resign Justin Fargas and they already have Michael Bush and possibly Dominic Rhodes returning.
Drafting Darren McFadden would tie up a lot of money in one position when the Raiders need help in a lot of areas.
So you have your running backs to go with the quarterback. Drafting a receiver in the second round wouldn’t be a bad idea. But after watching the Raiders be continually gashed in the run game, they can’t ignore the defensive line.
The only way I see them not taking a defensive tackle in the first round is they trade down and take a receiver and follow that up with a defensive tackle in the second round or if they find a DT in free agency.
Question: What is the purpose that Brayton is on the football field, any field for that matter???
Jeremy, Hollywood, Fla.
Answer: I once had a Raiders employee ask the same question. I had no answer then and still don’t. The coaches say he’s a hard worker.
Question: What's up Jason; In regards to the Defensive Tackles and the DEFINITE NEED for more isn't Jonathan Lewis on the practice squad? He's a kid out of Virginia Tech that was drafted in the 6th round by the Cardinals. Another question would be have you heard the coaching staff speak of him in terms of making an impact in 2008
Jeff, Los Angeles
Answer: Lewis did finish the season on the practice squad. I never heard the coaching staff say much about him, but I’m sure Lane Kiffin will take a look at him in the offseason.
--Jason Jones
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