The Calm Before the Storm -- EXCLUSIVE CONTENT
RF.net talks draft with players and experts on the eve of the draft
Friday, April 25, 2008
By Victor Cotto Raiderfans.net Staff Columnist
2008 Draft attendees in NY and talking to Raiderfans.net
It’s finally here – draft time.
On the eve of one of the most exciting days in the NFL calendar, Bob 'Nexx' Ortiz was able to sit and talk to players that were invited to attend the draft and some experts from around the league to talk about the happenings of the weekend.
The Oakland Raiders own the 4th overall selection, and fans have been anticipating any news regarding what direction their beloved Silver & Black will go in with that pick.
Mike Mayock from the NFL Network leaned towards Darren McFadden and stated that Oakland’s needs may be addressed with the selection of the star rusher from Arkansas.
Mayock stated, “I think Oakland is going to take him at four, and I was a big proponent of Vernon Gholson going there. “
He continued, “Their need for offensive playmakers is so huge right now, and Al Davis has always been a speed guy. So I’m starting to buy into the philosophy that they are going to take McFadden there.”
A major consideration in taking a rusher that high is how much money it will take to sign him, and since the Raiders broke the bank last year signing top overall choice
JaMarcus Russell, have been a fixture atop the draft the last few years signing players to hefty deals and the current money invested at that particular position on the roster already, Mayock emphasized the discretion needed when assessing whether to take a player such as McFadden.
“As far as Darren McFadden is concerned, he would drop out of my top ten just because I wouldn’t risk the dollars. To me, it becomes economical too.”
“So at four, if I’m the Raiders, it depends what is there. What if [Glenn] Dorsey gets through? If Dorsey doesn’t go three, and Atlanta takes Matt Ryan Dorsey has to be a consideration to be plugged in where Warren Sapp used to play.”
Former San Francisco 49ers head coach chimed in on his thoughts about what could potentially happen for the Silver & Black.
“They are a lot of good options this year”, he stated. “Darren McFadden has value there. Dorsey could replace a Warren Sapp type guy and off course Howie’s son, that’s kind of a sexy pick.”
He also warned about the monetary aspect of the draft and the importance of making the correct selection due to the risks involved. “You have to be very thorough because it is very expensive. And you have to be right. And it has to be long term. There are some real quality players in this room. And the caliber of these players, they can use. The Raiders can use any of these guys. Hopefully,
JaMarcus Russell is the guy for the future.”
“Surrounding him with some skilled players on offense will be beneficial to him.” He continued, “Maybe their thought, I don’t know this, but maybe to add some weapons to help out their young quarterback. You need someone explosive.”
As for that someone explosive, McFadden talked about his pre-draft experience with the Raiders. “I took a visit out there, one of the first visits I took.”
He continued, “I got to meet Al Davis, Greg Knapp, their offensive coordinator and Tom Rathman their running backs coach.”
The 20-year old talked about his transition onto the next level, stating, “I don’t think there will be any problems for me. For me, is just getting in there, learning the playbook and learning the system.”
As for patterning his game to any existing pros, McFadden said, I don’t really compare myself to anyone. I don’t feel I’m similar to anyone. I’ve been playing football since I was six-years old and I just developed my own style over the years.”
On the defensive side of the ball, Dorsey would be an interesting pick for the Raiders if available, as he would fit a need along the interior of their defensive line. The LSU product stated the daunting task ahead of him getting acclimated to the pro game. “There is a lot of hard work to be done. It’s easier said than done, but once I get drafted, its time to go to work.”
Dorsey even talked about keeping in touch with his former teammate and now Raider. “I met with JaMarcus when I was in Oakland. He’s a great guy and showed me the ropes…”
Chris Long also talked about his experience in Oakland during the pre-draft luncheon.
“It was a honor meeting Al Davis. “
When asked to gauge their interest, Long commented, “I think they like me. This whole draft is not whether they like me or not. Its about situational needs, and whether I’m going to be on the board.”
Another defensive end prospect has been linked to the Raiders at no. 4, and Vernon Gholston reacted to questions regarding his visit to Oakland.
“It was nice. I really liked the coaching staff. They were laid back guys.”
He continued, “Of course I met with Al Davis. He was a very sharp guy. We talked about the Raiders, Ohio State and he asked me if I can stop the run and I told him ‘sure’.”
The Raiders will be on the clock soon, and when its all said and done, fans want a player that will be productive and that can live up to the hype of their arrival into the professional ranks.
Mayock said it best, stating. “If you are picking four, my biggest belief is you have to get a guy that will be an immediate starter and ultimately a pro-bowl player.”
DRAFT OUTLOOK:
Oakland can use talent on either side of the ball. You can make the case for any of the players atop the draft board with the exception of Matt Ryan. But ultimately the decision whether to go with help along the defensive line or adding an explosive playmaker to the offense will be what the Raiders face. McFadden can aide Russell, solidify an offense and give Lane Kiffin’s offense a dynamic look which was missing last season. But with Michael Bush looking to expand his role this season after many thought he was one of the steals in last year’s draft, retaining
Justin Fargas’ rights at starters money and the presence and Dominic Rhodes, can the Raiders afford to add to an already area of strength with other pressing needs? Or, is McFadden a can’t miss talent that needs to be added on a team in dire need of pop?
With Dorsey likely gone by the time they pick, Oakland fans could be clamoring to see Long in Silver & Black. Another rusher to complement Burgess and a final piece to an already rebuilt defense after their shopping spree this off-season could also be what the Raiders need to get back to respectability.
Long or Dorsey would be my selections, depending on who is there or not. But when you’re talking about a potential Al Davis pick, and a talent like McFadden is available, a year after adding a quarterback, it will be hard to convince anyone that bypassing a rusher of his caliber is the right thing to do.
ALL QUOTES AND COMMENTARY ARE EXCLUSIVE ONLY TO Raiderfans.net and accessible only to PREMIUM members. Sign up for PREMIUM and have all the inside track on information during the draft as well as access to interviews conducted by Bob 'Nexx' Ortiz with Jake Long, Chris Long, Vernon Gholston, Glenn Dorsey, Mike Mayock and Steve Mariucci, during the pre-draft luncheon. Available only to PREMIUM members.