Oakland Raiders: 4 Intriguing Position Battles Worth Keeping An Eye On
By Kevin Saito
Jul 30, 2013; Napa, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive coordinator Jason Tarver supervises defensive backs Brandian Ross (29) , Taiwan Jones (22) , Mitchell White (39) and Charles Woodson (24) during drills at training camp at Napa Valley Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
For the first time in what seems like a long time, the Oakland Raiders will go into camp with something they’ve sorely lacked – depth. Depth and options at various positions. And by options, we’re not talking about one aging veteran versus another aging veteran who will engage in a war to see who seems less old to fill the spot.
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No, this year, Oakland has some very solid, young, and talented options who can step in and make a big impact on the Raiders in a very important year for the franchise. Perhaps, one of the most critical years the organization has faced.
Though he takes a lot of flack for things he didn’t do, or things people thought he should do, Reggie McKenzie has done a lot of things well in trying to bring this franchise back to respectability and relevance. Over the last three seasons, he’s put together incredibly solid draft classes and has put together a very solid nucleus of talent in Oakland.
Since 2013, he’s been able to snag players like Khalil Mack, Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, Clive Walford, Travis Carrie, Latavius Murray, Sio Moore, and Mychal Rivera. He’s added a number of young role players like Ben Heeney, Mario Edwards Jr., Andre Dubose, Neiron Ball, and Max Valles.
No, his free agent signings haven’t always worked out. In fact, he’s signed some real stinkers like LaMarr Woodely, Carlos Rogers, and Maurice Jones-Drew. In fact, unless you’re counting the ageless Charles Woodson, Justin Tuck is really the only free agent acquisition that has made a positive impact during McKenzie’s tenure.
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Until this year, that is.
With the help and perhaps even guidance of new HC Jack Del Rio, the Raiders brought in a load of young, talented free agents to fill out the roster, create some depth, and make some positive contributions. With players like Dan Williams, Malcolm Smith, and Curtis Lofton among a completely revamped front seven, the Raiders look to be incredibly stout against the run this year – something they haven’t been in some time.
But most importantly, the Raiders have some solid depth at some key positions this year. Which of course, is going to set up some terrific camp battles this summer as players jockey for position and playing time.
There is going to be plenty of competition in camp this summer and some fierce battles. Here are a few of the more intriguing positional battles well worth keeping an eye on…
Next: Battle #1: Running Backs