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        the Gridiron >> the Red Zone >>  Raiders Offseason Report
        
(Message started by: Callie on Mar 2nd, 2004, 5:56pm)
Title: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 2nd, 2004, 5:56pm
No plans by Rice or Brown to restructure their contracts.
Is TO still in the wings????

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/chronicle/archive/2004/03/02/SPGOI5C0VO1.DTL
Title: Re: Gannon to stay a Raider!
Post by DOLFAN on Mar 2nd, 2004, 6:39pm
I told ya so. I guessed though that they would redo his contract to save $. I was wrong there. Based on the lack of solid QB depth though, I got this one right. I still think TO could end up here.
Maybe they will cut Gannon tonight and sign Garcia tmrw. HAHA.
I could see OAK drafting a QB this year for sure. Tuiasosopo is an UFA next year.
This is good news for Gannon owners, but not at all surprising. To me anyway, and some other guys on here that I have had conversations with about this subject.
Title: Re: Gannon to stay a Raider!
Post by StegRock on Mar 2nd, 2004, 8:51pm

on 03/02/04 at 18:39:41, DOLFAN wrote:
This is good news for Gannon owners,...


Well, if you believe Gannon's got anything left in the tank.  I think to think he is going to return to solid #2 FF QB form, no less #1 FF QB form, would be foolhardy.  I suppose it is better news than hearing he is done, but that's about it.


Quote:
...but not at all surprising. To me anyway, and some other guys on here that I have had conversations with about this subject.


True.  This is a position you did maintain.
Title: Re: Gannon to stay a Raider!
Post by DOLFAN on Mar 3rd, 2004, 12:15am
Well, I still think Gannon has some left in the tank. I think he is still a #1 QB..just my opinion though. [smiley=shrug.gif]
Will he produce top 10-12 stats, I don't know. I want to yes, but being logical,  I would say no, but the issues last year were more so due to Callahan's offensive schemes and poor play by the WRs and OL, than Gannon's poor decisions. His WRs are getting old, Brown should just retire, Porter needs to show more, A LOT MORE!  [smiley=newbie.gif]
Rich will still post top 20 #s. that makes him a good backup. They have Fargas, who has always had injury issues, Porter, some good young TEs and will draft a WR. Fitzgerald or Williams will be in sliver and black next year, that's a given. Unless of course they trade for T.O., which I think is still a strong possibilty.  [smiley=sultan.gif]
the entire Raiders team si not what it used to be, but Turner's offense will give Gannon a much betetr than average shot to be a good #2 FF QB, if not a poor #1.
My bet: 3200-3600 yds and 18-24 TDS, 10-14 INTs. Not to bad at all for a #2 QB.
Of course if you have Daunte or Favre on your team he is more of a security blanket, but if he already have both  [smiley=jawdroppin.gif] , you will be just fine!
Title: Re: Gannon to stay a Raider!
Post by Callie on Mar 3rd, 2004, 6:01pm
Historically, Turner likes ball control.  But when ball control is established, he takes the big shots down the field.

It won't be a big vertical game for the QB if Turner stays true to form, however a good big play WR could do well if you're in a league that rewards WR TDs.

Gannon is a very good field general.  Given the right opportunities, he brings up the levels of those around him.  I just don't think he'll be running them in as much this year.  Those days (hopefully) are gone.  But he can still throw a few big plays to a big play WR, which in some leagues results in decent fantasy points.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Referee on Mar 11th, 2004, 10:24pm
A post regarding the Raiders' wooing of RB Corey Dillon is on the following thread:

http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/cgi-bin/theGridiron/YaBB.cgi?board=55;action=display;num=1079012029.

Please continue discussion on this topic here, though.  Thank you! [smiley=bow.gif]
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 13th, 2004, 9:59am
Looks like the Raiders are showing some interest in Boston, too.  And the Bolts have to unload him before Monday to avoid a mill $$ roster bonus! :o

http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/story/8504646p-9433475c.html
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Mar 17th, 2004, 2:19pm
Well, Rich Gannon is apparently on the mend.  But, for how much longer does he fit into the Raiders' plans?  Here's what "The REAL Feed" says:

QB Gannon expected to be ready for minicamps
NFL.com (16.03.2004 23:24)
Rich Gannon is progressing in his recovery from shoulder surgery and the Raiders are optimistic their veteran quarterback will be ready for a mandatory minicamp.

From "the Gridiron Newsstand":

AP report -
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/football/nfl/oakland_raiders/8202682.htm;

Local report, suspect, though, considering the author's erroneous allusion to Jeff Garcia -
http://www.oaklandtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,82~10847~2022852,00.html.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Mar 19th, 2004, 10:47am
I thought this little ditty from "The REAL Feed" was worth adding here:

Raiders notes: Raiders expect Gannon at their April minicamp
The Sacramento Bee: Sports (19.03.2004 09:28)
ALAMEDA - A job audition was not quite one of the tasks Rich Gannon thought he would face 14 months after winning the NFL's Most Valuable Player award, breaking the league record for completions in a season and quarterbacking the Raiders into the Super Bowl.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 20th, 2004, 5:08pm
Around the net, the Raider Nation is ECSTATIC about the new in the coaching staff.  :D

They're taking a wait and see approach about the changes in the pre-season work(everything old is new again-meaning working their tails off).  ?.?.?  But the press seems to like it!  :-/
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 20th, 2004, 6:23pm
SAPP A RAIDER

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/7192189
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Mar 20th, 2004, 7:00pm
WOW!  That sure is BIG news!  All signs seemed to point toward Sapp's going to Cincinnati!  Thanks for staying on top of the Raiders' news for us, Callie. [smiley=thumbsup.gif] ... [smiley=bow.gif]
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 20th, 2004, 7:35pm
My pleasure, Steg.  A further point...as you know, the Raider D was not exactly stellar last season.  Enter new DC - Bob Ryan (LB coach for the Pats for the past 4 yrs.)  Now Sapp is the DT opposite Ted Washington (also a Pro Bowl DT).  Granted, Sapp is 32.  But I think he still has some mileage and has a big point to prove...if he stays healthy.  And here they all are with Norv Turner who LOVES the power back.  A ground control game is a whole lot more possible when the D can actually hold down the scoring on the other side of the ball.

I can't wait to see what the draft brings.  Al Davis wants another Superbowl before his sky box is above the clouds.... ;D

And more...former NYG LB Barrow may go to the Raiders to replace Romanoski.  "Having Ted Washington and Warren Sapp in the middle of the line is a big upgrade for a run defense that ranked last in the league last season. Both aren't in their prime anymore but are still solid enough to command attention leaving the linebackers free to fly to the ball."
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Mossaholic on Mar 20th, 2004, 7:51pm
Sapp should look good in Silver and Black he is over 30, has a big mouth, attitude, washed up, and now is over paid. Sapp is past his prime and is now just one of the most over hyped players in the league.

I think this was horrible move by the slavemasters [smiley=mywhippinboy.gif] (Raiders). They could have spent their money a lot more wisely than this. Don't they have more important needs to spend their money on like QB, RB, LB, WR, among many others. This is the reason why they have cap problems [smiley=gettinhammered.gif].
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 22nd, 2004, 7:41pm
"Anyone who doesn't understand the significance of this signing for the Raiders ... has never had to game-plan against him," Turner said. "He brings great passion and enthusiasm. He knows how to play the game."

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/news/archive/2004/03/22/sports1755EST0117.DTL

;D
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 23rd, 2004, 7:35pm
Here's the audio link to the Sapp press conference:


http://24.104.40.88/knbr/0322sappConference.wma

Let the play speak for itself..... [smiley=toocool.gif]

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/chronicle/archive/2004/03/23/SPGHS5PKSB1.DTL
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 24th, 2004, 6:34pm
More inside stuff on the Sapp deal....

EXCLUSIVE SAPP NEGOTIATION DETAILS

In the wake of the stunning, last-minute courtship of defensive tackle Warren Sapp by the Raiders, we've gathered some exclusive details regarding the manner in which the deal went down -- and regarding the Raiders' plans for the veteran defensive tackle.

First, we've confirmed that the Raiders literally came out of the blue with on Friday night, after Sapp had decided that he'd focus on getting a deal done with the Bengals.

We're told that, after Raiders owner Al Davis became aware of Internet reports linking Sapp to Cincy, Mike Lombardi called Sapp's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and Lombardi expressed a strong interest in getting something done.

It was the Raiders' first serious overture to Rosenhaus, we're told, primarily because Davis wanted to be sure that Tampa Bay was out of the picture before the Raiders entered the bidding.  Davis's biggest fear was that he'd spark a premature bidding war with the Buccaneers, given the recent history of acrimony between the two franchises.

Sure, the Bucs didn't want Sapp back.  But if they thought the Raiders wanted him, G.M. Bruce Allen and coach Jon Gruden might have changed their tunes.

At the time the Raiders got involved, the Bengals had upped their offer to Sapp from four years and $16 million to roughly $18.5 million over the same time period.  Once the Raiders started putting money on the table, however, the Bengals essentially stepped aside.

Also in the mix at the end were the Chiefs and the Ravens.  The Chiefs previously had offered a package worth $3 million annually for Sapp, and they'd fallen out of the picture as Sapp focused on the Bengals.  But with the Chiefs' arch-rivals upping the ante, it made sense for Sapp and Rosenhaus to see if K.C. was willing to outbid Davis.  Possibly fearing that they'd ultimately lose out on a showdown with the Raiders, the Chiefs backed off.

So did the Ravens, even though we hear that linebacker Ray Lewis got owner Steve Bisciotti directly involved in the discussions on Friday night and/or Saturday morning.  Lewis, a former teammate of Sapp's at the University of Miami, had been pushing hard for the Ravens to reel in the big fella -- and it'll be interesting to see if Lewis harbors any resentment as a result of the team's failure to make it happen.

We're hearing that Sapp's contract with the Raiders will pay him more over the first four seasons that will contracts signed by other defensive tackles, including Anthony McFarland, Robaire Smith, Cornelius Griffin, and Rod Coleman.

Also, although Sapp's contract has a seven-year term for the purposes of managing the cap consequences of the signing bonus, the deal contains a clause that allows him to retire after four years, with no requirement that any portion of the signing bonus be repaid.  

And in Oakland, Sapp's career could extend beyond four more seasons.  With defensive tackles Ted Washington and John Parrella already on the roster, Sapp won't have to do a lot of run stuffing.  In fact, there's already talk of Sapp possibly sliding to the outside from time to time, lining up as a defensive end.

Taken from
http://www.profootballtalk.com/rumormill.htm

Yeah, I know.  But I'll bet it's true.  Has that ring to it.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 27th, 2004, 10:12am
"If an outside bidder jacks the Rams with an unexpected, last-minute, front-loaded free agent offer to Marc Bulger. (Beware of the Oakland Raiders.) If it happens, the Rams may be unable to match because of potential salary-cap repercussions. At that point, they'd probably opt to let Bulger go and accept a No. 1 and a No. 3 draft pick as compensation. We'll know by April 16; that's the NFL deadline for signing restricted free agents to offer sheets."

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/columnists.nsf/Bernie+Miklasz/FF2D093BBE7ED13B86256E620020D9C6?OpenDocument&Headline=Signs+indicate+the+Rams+plan+to+dump+Warner

Also:  The chatter is that the Raiders and the Bengals will reach a deal for Dillon next week. A 3rd round pick and a conditional pick for Dillon.

http://www.profootballcentral.com/
http://football.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://www.gbnreport.com
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 30th, 2004, 5:23pm
"Extra picks: The Raiders were awarded two compensatory picks in the draft next month, both after the seventh (final) round. Compensatory picks are determined by a formula that takes into account a team's net losses of free agents."  From SF Gate.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Apr 2nd, 2004, 10:06pm
According to "The REAL Feed", it looks like the Dillon deal may be going down the tubes:

Stalled talks? Dillon-to-Raiders deal not imminent (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=1772708)
ESPN: NFL (02.04.2004 21:12)

Don't go shootin' the messanger, now, Callie! [smiley=gunsablazin.gif] ... ;)
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 3rd, 2004, 7:51am
From the above article:

"One Raiders coach hinted that Oakland officials are content for now to wait and see how the Bengals handle the Dillon situation. "The [preference] is to trade for him, and get him into the system, but only at the right price. But most people think you can get [Dillon] for nothing when they cut him in the summer," said the coach."

Everything I read says it's been all about the haggling, with Big Al playing the role of a guy who can wait and get it for free, but he'll still talk to ya.  If you can come down a little.  Ya know.  Etc., etc., etc.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 13th, 2004, 6:33pm
Will the Raiders trade their number 2 pick?

Here's what I read at All Sorts Sports:

"The Raiders would trade the second pick in the draft to the Redskins for the fifth overall pick and LT Chris Samuels. The Redskins then would select Robert Gallery to replace Samuels. The Raiders then would take WR Roy Williams or TE Kellen Winslow. The deal makes sense on a couple of fronts. Raiders coach Norv Turner was Samuels' first coach in the NFL, and Redskins management has been frustrated over the inability to sign Samuels to a contract extension. The Redskins reached a similar impasse with CB Champ Bailey  and subsequently traded him to Denver. . . . One unheralded reason the Chargers and Raiders might like to trade out of the first and second spots in the draft: money. Both teams have poor fan support and unfavorable stadium contracts. To sign the first pick in the draft, the Chargers would have to cough up a signing bonus in the neighborhood of $15 million and commit to a contract worth approximately $46 million."

What about the rumor that the Giants want to do a deal with the Chargers to get the number one pick for Gallery?  He seems to be an interesting factor in a lot of places.  Especially the NFC East!  People are saying he's the best lineman to come out in a decade or two.

Then from About.com:

"April 13
(3:00 PM): More noise, or smoke, from Bolts on top pick... Just days after letting the world know that the #1 pick overall at this year's draft was up for sale, San Diego appears to be backtracking ever so slightly on their desire to move down. Late last week, the Chargers announced to the rest of the league that the #1 was available when the team took the unprecedented step of faxing out a news brief to almost every news outlet in the country that GM A.J. Smith had had talks with Ernie Accorsi, his counterpart with the Giants, about a possible flip of the 1st and 4th picks. Today, however, the Chargers sound less sure that they want to part with the #1 pick. The reason ostensibly is Iowa OT Robert Gallery. Like just about every other team with a top 10 pick, the Chargers are indicating that the hulking Gallery is the player they'd really like to come out of the 2004 draft with in tow. Indeed, the Chargers appear to have had it in mind that if they traded down with the Giants, Gallery would still have been there when they used the Giants' 4th pick. Washington, though, threw cold water on that scenario when it became known that the Redskins were working on a deal with Oakland to move into the #2 pick to grab Gallery themsleves if he hadn't been selected first overall. The Chargers' apparent change of heart regarding a trade down could reflect a couple of things. Either they really do like Gallery and will stick at #1 in order to select him; or they could simply be sending a message to Washington that if the Redskins want Gallery they'll have to go all the way to the top spot to get him."
?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.? ?.?.?
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 29th, 2004, 6:43pm
"Amos Zereoue, who was cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers in March after the free-agent signing of Duce Staley, has found a new home. Raiderfans.net has learned that the 5-8, 212 pound running back will join the Oakland Raiders.

The former West Virginia star will most likely fill the role of the departed Charlie Garner. Zereoue is known for his quickness and versatility. The Raiders will utilize his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and line him up at wide receiver in various formations to cause match-up problems. His change of pace style will add a different dimension to this offense when Tyrone Wheatley is off the football field. During his seasons in Pittsburgh, Zereoue encountered a similar situation when backing up Jerome Bettis."

http://www.raiders.com/
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Apr 29th, 2004, 8:15pm
GREAT update, Callie!  That sure does muddy the waters of the Raiders backfield from a fantasy perspective, though.  I ultimately do not believe Zereoue is starting material.  It'll be Fargas as long as he stays healthy along with Wheatley, and Wheatley would take over if Fargas gets injured.  That's how I see it shaking out.  Zereoue would be a yardage vulture like Crockett is a touchdown vulture.

Here's some other Raiders news coming out of "the Gridiron Newsstand":

Raiders interested in QB Collins -
http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/sports/football/nfl/oakland_raiders/8547709.htm;

Good news for Gannon Owners -
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/football/nfl/oakland_raiders/8521884.htm?1c.

Mixed signals there for us fantasy footballers, huh? [smiley=lost.gif]
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 6th, 2004, 6:37pm
Raiders and Bears seem to be the short list for Collins.

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/story/190228p-164575c.html

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/7309456
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 7th, 2004, 6:39pm
Today's rumor du jour is (sorry about the redundency) -
Collins to Oakland, Gannon wanting out (asked for a cap un-friendly raise), Gannon to Tampa Bay, Sapp knocking the stuffing out of Gannon in 2004, and the Black Hole loves it this time.  Sort of like the Romo thing of loving him when he's on your own team?

Gannon had a great mini camp.  And he's 38 years old.  We'll know the rest by June 1st if they wait that long.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 9th, 2004, 6:15pm
From Pro Football Talk.com

RAIDERS LEAN TOWARD DUMPING GANNON

A league source tells us that the Oakland Raiders presently are leaning toward releasing Rich Gannon, if they can lure a guy like Kerry Collins to the Bay Area.

Per the source, there are concerns that the 38-year-old Gannon won't be able to hold up for a full season, and that the shoulder he injured in 2003 might not be fully healed.  In contrast, Collins in younger and he has a strong arm and he'd give the Raiders a longer-term answer at the position.

We're also hearing that the Raiders harbor some resentment toward Gannon.  He engaged the team in a public pissing match two years ago regarding his contract, and word is that owner Al Davis is still upset about Gannon's handling of the issue.  

There is also, we're told, a lingering problem regarding whether Gannon should have waited on shoulder surgery until after the 2003 season, which would have enabled him to try to help reverse an embarrassing campaign for one of the proudest franchises in all of sports.

With news that 49ers presumptive starter Tim Rattay has suffered a serious groin tear (insert cringe here), the Raiders might not be the only Cali team taking a run at Collins.  Even if Rattay is fully healthy, he's unproven.  And if he'll be missing up to 10 weeks of preparation for his first season as a starter, the Niners might need to revisit whether another guy should be added to the mix.

If Collins lands in Oakland and Gannon is gone, Gannon probably will have trouble finding a starting job.  But the feeling is that he'll be in demand as a backup.

The obvious fit for Gannon is Tampa, where he'd be reunited with coach Jon Gruden.  Under Gruden's tutelage, Gannon made a late-career transformation into one of the best quarterbacks in the game, culminating in the 2002 MVP award.  We're hearing that the Bucs aren't happy with their stable of backup quarterbacks (which is headlined by Brian Griese), and there were rumors earlier in the offseason that Gruden would be interested in getting Gannon as a possible replacement for starter Brad Johnson.

As we see it, the likelihood that Gannon would end up with Gruden might be the one thing that keeps him in Oakland.  Even if Al Davis pays Gannon his full salary to sit the bench behind Collins, the possibility that Gannon and Gruden would both get their way by getting together is something that the Raiders likely wouldn't be able to stomach.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 13th, 2004, 2:17am
From "The REAL Feed", the current headline on the following page reads "Gannon Must Go":

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/football/nfl/oakland_raiders/.

I don't make it up; I just report it! :-X
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 15th, 2004, 5:46pm
Collins visits.  But no deal now...  Sounds like Gannon starts and someone else backs him up...so far.  Never try to out guess Al. [smiley=commander.gif]

http://www.oaklandtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,82~10835~2147977,00.html
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on May 17th, 2004, 9:46pm
Raiders sign Troy Hambrick

ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli reports the Oakland Raiders have signed free agent RB Troy Hambrick (Cowboys) to a one-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 17th, 2004, 9:57pm
Very interesting... so we've got a logjam at RB in Oakland now... Wheatley, Fargas, and Hambrick vying for the yards and Crockett still grabbing all the TDs?

Callie, any inkling of what is (will be) going on here?
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 18th, 2004, 12:59am
You forgot about Zereoue too!

Here's a report on the Hambrick signing from "The REAL Feed":

Raiders sign Hambrick (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c=sportsnetwork&page=nfl/news/ABN3236084.htm)
The Sports Network: NFL (17.05.2004 20:47)

Here's the word, including information on their signing DB David Terrell, from the official site, available on "the Gridiron Newsstand":

http://www.raiders.com/newsroom/newsroomNewsDetail.jsp?id=12218.

The Hambrick signing definitely muddies the waters in their backfield!
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 18th, 2004, 9:25am

on 05/18/04 at 00:59:54, StegRock wrote:
You forgot about Zereoue too!


Hmm... maybe because Zereoue is a forgettable player?   ;)
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 24th, 2004, 6:08pm
Well, it's official... "Cocktail" Kerry is now the property of the Oakland Raiders.

http://nfl.com/teams/story/OAK/7355476

Now we'll just wait for the Raiders to release Rich Gannon.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 26th, 2004, 9:19am

on 05/24/04 at 18:08:06, Philly wrote:
Now we'll just wait for the Raiders to release Rich Gannon.


Now the propaganda machine in Oakland is saying that Gannon is still the #1 QB and Collins was just brought in to be a back-up...

Seems like a lot of payroll for one position...
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 26th, 2004, 8:50pm
Collins says he is willing to play backup:

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/dolphins/content/shared-gen/ap/General_Football_News/FBN_Raiders_Collins.html

And -

"Clipped from: ESPN.com Editorial sidebar by John Clayton, 5/25/04

Is Kerry Collins a good fit at quarterback for the Raiders?

Depends on the timing. To come in late May and knock out Rich Gannon
sets back the Raiders offense. Collins first has to get comfortable with
Norv Turner's offense and then win over the team, which isn't easy for
a quarterback this late. As long as Gannon is still with the team, it's
his team. Obviously, Collins has the arm strength that fits the new
emphasis to throw deep.

But as strange as it seems, Gannon is still the best fit in the offense
this year if he's healthy. For one, he makes plays with his feet.
That's important because the Raiders could have three new starters on the
offensive line and two of them could be rookies, Robert Gallery and Jake
Grove. Since coming off shoulder surgery, Gannon has been throwing the
ball harder and better than last year. Leadership is another benefit of
Gannon's game. Though he can be stubborn on what he wants the offense
to do, Gannon is a leader who will go to management if teammates want
something. The Raiders have a lot of egos on their offense, which makes
it tough for a quiet quarterback such as Collins to keep everybody
happy."

And - A lot of people are saying that Collins in the mix gives the Raiders more edge in contract negotiations with Gannon.

We'll see what happens after June 1st.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 19th, 2004, 9:06pm
Nice article about the new Oakland D.

http://www.profootballweekly.com/PFW/NFL/AFC/AFC+West/Oakland/Features/2004/modglin052704.htm

AFC West D's are different this year.

Oh, yeah.  And they all play each other twice.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Jun 20th, 2004, 7:02pm
Is this something new??  ::) :-X ;D




on 06/19/04 at 21:06:49, Callie wrote:
AFC West D's are different this year.

Oh, yeah.  And they all play each other twice.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 20th, 2004, 7:09pm
Lickin' My Chops   [smiley=lickinmychops.gif]
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 20th, 2004, 9:41pm
New Raider Rumor.

The Raiders coaching staff is asking Hambrick to bulk up and try out for the fullback position.

Absolutely no verification. ?.?.?

Well, maybe it's SOMETHING he could do....
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 24th, 2004, 1:27pm
The Raiders have two quarterbacks in their minicamp, Rich Gannon and Kerry Collins, who have started in the Super Bowl. The total NFL game experience for 49ers quarterbacks is the three starts Tim Rattay made last year, and they released Jeff Garcia because of salary-cap problems.

Trying to recover from their 4-12 season, the Raiders have plugged enough holes through free agency to make it seem they'll be in playoff contention again....(read on, good article)

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/06/24/SPG667ASOG1.DTL
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Jun 24th, 2004, 2:08pm

on 06/24/04 at 13:27:13, Callie wrote:
The Raiders have two quarterbacks in their minicamp, Rich Gannon and Kerry Collins, who have started in the Super Bowl. The total NFL game experience for 49ers quarterbacks is the three starts Tim Rattay made last year, and they released Jeff Garcia because of salary-cap problems.

Trying to recover from their 4-12 season, the Raiders have plugged enough holes through free agency to make it seem they'll be in playoff contention again....(read on, good article)

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/06/24/SPG667ASOG1.DTL



OK.  Step away from the drugs and the alcohol.  They can make you dillusional.   [smiley=alcoholic.gif] [smiley=bonghit.gif]

You really don't buy into the fact that the Raiders who went out and signed a bunch of old guys to replace a bunch of old guys are a playoff team?  4-12 last year.  No way they  make the playoffs.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jun 24th, 2004, 3:11pm
I think they could be really good on defense this year.  They've got the middle of their defense in great shape with Sapp and Washington.  Defense starts right there in the middle of the line.  Their offense will be a question mark, but I don't think a play-off run is out of the question.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 24th, 2004, 5:50pm
And OT Robert Gallery and C Jake Grove.  An O line to set up the power back game Norv loves.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jun 25th, 2004, 5:29pm
"Robbins and Woodson hurting: Turner said he is moving forward under the assumption he will be without the services of free safety Rod Woodson and center Barret Robbins not only for the immediate future, but beyond. Both players are recovering from major knee surgeries after missing much of the late 2003 season."

From The Raiders Notebook in the San Francisco Chronicle, June 25th.  I can't get the link to copy.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 6th, 2004, 6:47pm
Sam Williams.

http://www.raiders.com/newsroom/newsroomNewsDetail.jsp?id=12994
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 9th, 2004, 7:30pm
CBS Sportsline predicts Collins will be the Raiders QB - at least game one....

"Rich Gannon vs. Kerry Collins

By signing Collins, the Raiders made one of the best moves of the offseason. Collins is still an effective passer who can get the ball down the field, something Gannon struggles to do. The new Raiders staff wants an upgrade over Gannon's dink-and-dunk style, which is why Collins makes sense. But don't expect Gannon to go down easily. That's not his nature. He is a battler who will do everything he can to fend off Collins. Problem is his skills have eroded some, and was he ever anything more than a journeyman player who had a career couple of seasons? Collins is the prototype of what owner Al Davis wants to do, which is get the ball down the field.

Edge: Gannon, but that's only because he has been around longer.

Opening-day starter: Collins. He's the better player, pure and simple. And he chucks the rock down the field."

Any thoughts? [smiley=warrior.gif]
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 10th, 2004, 5:26pm
Steve Corkran reports for the Sporting News that Oakland Raiders WR Tim Brown will likely be a situation receiver for the Raiders in 2004 and that WR Jerry Rice is likely still a starter for the Raiders in 2004, but he may give way to WR Jerry Porter as the team's go-to receiver this season.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 10th, 2004, 8:34pm
With all due respect to Mr. Corkran, that's what's been being purported by most sources (especially those in the fantasy world) for months now.  I guess it's just further confirmation...  Tim Brown's once-heralded fantasy career is over.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 10th, 2004, 8:37pm
Too true.  Just lookin' for somethin' to do.

However....how about a better Raider smiley?????????
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 10th, 2004, 8:46pm
You've got a few to choose from... [smiley=warrior.gif] [smiley=skull.gif] [smiley=gladiator.gif] or perhaps even [smiley=scream.gif]

There are surely teams with much worse "smiley representation" issues. [smiley=yes.gif] ... ;)
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 10th, 2004, 8:50pm
It's never about "other teams."

Number three has potential.  Your first one is not bad.

I'll defer to whatever you say  [smiley=mywhippinboy.gif] until we find something better!
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 23rd, 2004, 3:49pm
Center Barret Robbins Released.  On Thursday he asked to be released because he was not healthy enough to play.  Today he was released.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1845290

The THG thing may only be beginning in the NFL.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 27th, 2004, 7:34pm
ESPNews reports the Oakland Raiders have released veteran FS Rod Woodson (knee) after he failed his physical with the team.

http://www.raiders.com/newsroom/newsroomNewsDetail.jsp?id=13142
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 3rd, 2004, 1:27pm
"Turner to name an 'every-down' back

Rather than drag out a competition for starting tailback, the Raiders probably will declare a No. 1 by the end of the week, coach Norv Turner said Monday.

There will be no running back-by-committee, as in the past. "

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/08/03/SPGOP81N551.DTL

::)
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 3rd, 2004, 10:03pm
Could the long tenure of WR Tim Brown with the Raiders be coming to an end?  From "The REAL Feed":

Brown out? Raiders, WR meet about future
ESPN: NFL (03.08.2004 19:33)
Brown's future with Raiders up in airReceiver Tim Brown met with Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis on Tuesday and has another meeting scheduled to discuss whether he has a future with the team. Brown, the longest-tenured member of the Raiders, appeared resigned to the possibility that he may have to...

Here is the couple LOCAL reports addressing the issue from off "the Gridiron Newsstand":

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/08/04/RAIDERS.TMP;

http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/football/raiders/story/10235380p-11155821c.html.

It's sad that it has to come down to this.  I actually see Davis working out something here.  Davis, if nothing else, is loyal to his players (accept Marcus Allen), especially his older ones.  Whatever, though...  Brown's role this year will relegate him to fantasy free-agency.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 5th, 2004, 3:20pm
Rasta wants to be a Raider in 2005!

"According to the 27-year-old halfback, who officially filed retirement papers with the NFL earlier this week, playing for the Raiders is 'the only way I would' consider a comeback.'It would be great,' he said. 'I'd love it.'"

"Turner, after all, called the plays when Williams had his monster season in 2002, leading the NFL with 1,853 rushing yards."

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/writers/michael_silver/08/04/silver.openmike/index.html
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by bgsgfan on Aug 5th, 2004, 10:14pm
Interesting quote (of an Eastern philosophical or perhaps just Pot induced nature) from Ricky in that article:


Quote:
Every man thinks his burden is the heaviest, but he who feels it knows it. Burden equals truth.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 5th, 2004, 11:58pm
Here's how that Ricky Williams-to-the-Raiders-in-2005 report read on "The REAL Feed":

Retired Williams eyeing rush to Raiders?
ESPN: NFL (05.08.2004 19:14)
Imperfect match: Ricky and the Raiders?Don't be so quick to close the book on Ricky Williams' career ... maybe.Williams, whose world retirement tour stopped in Oakland last weekend to visit twin sister Cassie, told SI.com that he likes Oakland so much he'd consider resuming his career there -- ma...

Here is some LOCAL talk about it from "the Gridiron Newsstand":

http://www.oaklandtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,82~10847~2315560,00.html;

http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/football/raiders/story/10257329p-11177625c.html.

Looks like deep keeper-leaguers should hold him!  If you are a deep keeper-leaguer, hopefully you haven't already had to fold.

...

As for their starting back for now, it's looking like Tyrone Wheatley has a leg up... and forward ;) on the competition.  From "The REAL Feed":

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1853019&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 12th, 2004, 1:38pm
Hey, IDP guys:

"In Rob Ryan's new aggressive defense, which will build off a 3-4 front, linebackers can expect to get a lot of action. "

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/08/12/SPGRJ86H4G1.DTL
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 16th, 2004, 10:11pm
From "The REAL Feed":

Shooting (pain) Gallery: Raider hurts right elbow (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1860779&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233)
ESPN: NFL (16.08.2004 20:36)
Gallery yells in pain, holding right elbowNAPA, Calif. -- Offensive lineman Robert Gallery, the Oakland Raiders' top draft pick chosen No. 2 overall, went down with what appeared to be a right elbow injury during Monday afternoon's training camp practice. Gallery was participating in a half-line ...

Losing a lineman of this caliber could have a negative ripple-effect on the whole offense, one that was back clicking against the 49ers this past weekend.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 17th, 2004, 8:20pm
Gallery is fine.

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/08/17/SPG5D89C7R1.DTL
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 18th, 2004, 3:53am
Well, that may be the case (in the long run), but according to "The REAL Feed", he's sittin' and might not be playin' in their next preseason game:

Gallery sits, status uncertain vs. Dallas
ESPN: NFL (17.08.2004 22:03)
Elbow injury 'about the same'NAPA, Calif. -- Left tackle Robert Gallery, the second player taken in the NFL draft, didn't practice Tuesday morning with the Oakland Raiders because of an elbow injury, leaving his status uncertain for Saturday's preseason game against Dallas. Gallery left practice ...
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 20th, 2004, 8:21pm
I've been meaning to put this up, nice piece for anyone who bleeds Silver and Black  [smiley=warrior.gif]:

"After being issued No. 74 upon his arrival in Napa, Gallery's new jersey bore the No. 76 -- the dormant number of now-retired Raiders lineman Steve Wisniewsk":

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/08/20/SPG6M8BG311.DTL
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by captainpurple on Aug 24th, 2004, 3:52pm

on 05/17/04 at 21:57:09, Philly wrote:
Very interesting... so we've got a logjam at RB in Oakland now... Wheatley, Fargas, and Hambrick vying for the yards and Crockett still grabbing all the TDs?

Callie, any inkling of what is (will be) going on here?



Add Zeroue to this mix since posttime and we're all confused!   Callie, I'm thinking of dumping Lamont Jordan for Fargas, who I see getting more touches.   What do you think?
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 24th, 2004, 3:58pm
Right now it looks like Wheatley will be the #1 heading into the season.  He hasn't been over-worked for the past few years, so his age is less a concern than in might ordinarily be.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 25th, 2004, 7:01pm
Sorry, I haven't been around this thread enough in the last few days.  I'll make it up to ya!  Everything I read makes me think that it's just what it looks like - playing close to the vest to screw up the game planning in the AFC West and making guys compete.  We know they like that, and this year it's worse.  GREAT!!

I personally have been staying away from Raider RBs in my drafts this year.  Take your shot if you want to do that, but I see a five-headed monster with Crockett at the goal line like Riggins and the rest of them fighting it out until one RB emerges visably as a power back at some point.  When you see it coming, pounce for a trade.  Before that, every possible opinion is out there.

If I had to pick one for my own roster, I'd go Fargas.  I think he'll be the guy.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 25th, 2004, 7:18pm
We all knew it would happen...Woodson will be in.

The link is a problem, but here is the headline:

Woodson to rejoin team
The Raiders and Charles Woodson aren't any closer to ending their impasse, but Woodson will end his holdout and join his teammates sometime next week, the cornerback's agent said Tuesday.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 26th, 2004, 4:55pm
My Denver Raider disagees with Fargas over Wheat, BTW.  He even mentioned the possibility of Amos in the mix.  But he isn't drafting any Raider RB's, either.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 26th, 2004, 5:03pm
I think Wheatley will be the #1 guy and is a great value pick at RB.  In another thread somewhere I mentioned that I thought he could post top 20 FF numbers this year.

I think Fargas will get some time this year, but his best days are in 2005 and beyond.

I doubt Zereoue will do much... he's really not the type of back Turner prefers.
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 31st, 2004, 5:53pm
Update on Woodson, especially with the doubts rumored around about his return:

Cornerback Charles Woodson will end his lengthy holdout and report to the Raiders today, teammate and friend Zack Crockett said Monday.

"Trust me, he'll be here (today)," Crockett said. "I spoke with him (Sunday), and he said he's going to be here."

http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/sports/football/nfl/oakland_raiders/9542795.htm?1c

Modification:

Tender signed.

http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/OAK/7633055
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by sameoldsameold on Aug 31st, 2004, 7:04pm
not sure about this but i think i jus heard something about hambrick being traded or something....not sure they really zoomed past it on NFL live...im gonna look around for something and come back here...
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 31st, 2004, 7:17pm
Cards Acquire Hambrick & Zellner in Trade with Raiders

http://www.azcardinals.com/press/pressdetails.php?sid=2163

Very nice catch, SOS!
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Sep 5th, 2004, 11:06pm
Raiders acquire safety Marques Anderson:

http://www.raiders.com/newsroom/newsroomNewsDetail.jsp?id=14598
Title: Re: Raiders Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Sep 10th, 2004, 2:53pm
Rich Gannon Restructures his Contract

http://www.oaklandtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,82~10835~2392192,00.html

I think since it is a bit more incentive-laden now, the Raiders will be more likely to jump ship on Gannon and throw Collins in if Gannon falters...


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