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posted 07-14-2008 at 9:29 pm by Mykle Van Hausen RNS
[url]http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/[/url]
News that All Pro caliber cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha probably won't reach a long term agreement this year shouldn’t have Raider fans too worried, nor the news of a possible "camp hold out" when the Raiders begin to convene July 24th.
No biggie.
All part of a larger plan.
Fans lamented the large contracts doled out seemingly willie nillie to unproven or injured players this off season to the apparent detriment of Asomugha and the Raiders.
While understandable, that may not be entirely accurate.
The simple fact is, the money to pay Aso and reload the team simply wasn't going to be there.
Al faced the specter of not only to keep players already here, but to sign TWO top 5 draft picks in consecutive years.
My guess is Aso's in the loop and is playing ball not only on the field, but in the office as well.
Why?
Could it be that in the media hyped era of loathsome selfishness a player actually takes one for the team?
Who knows?
Of course their have been bumps in the road, (Charles Woodsen and Marcus Allen come to mind...) But for the most part, Al Davis can lean upon a reputation for treating AND paying his players well.
On the other hand, Al's not stupid and could be hedging his bets. Aso's only had the one good year, 2006.
A chronically bad run D and no one to play opposite meant Nnamdi went unchallenged through out most of 07'.
If Aso proves he is an elite corner this year when teams in all likely hood WILL challenge him, he can write his own number, with the Raiders...or whomever he likes.
Its a calculated gamble on both parties side, but one that will likely pay big dividends.
Its just another example of how Big Al does business unlike everyone else in the new "corporatized" NFL.
And one of the reasons we hope he succeeds.
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