 |  |
 |
| Wednesday, July 16 Updated: August 19, 1:59 PM ET Raiders: Training camp report Pro Football Weekly |
||||||||||||||||||
In Pro Football Weekly's third and final installment of training-camp reports, we look at the good (biggest positive), the bad (biggest disappointment) and the ugly (injury update) factors surrounding every team halfway through the 2003 preseason. We also set our sights on a rookie to watch on each team, for whatever the reason. Parts 1 and 2 are below. Aug. 19 Biggest positive: The improvement of the defensive line is a welcome sight in Oakland. The Raiders believe they still should be stout vs. the run despite the departure of defensive tackle Sam Adams, but the potential for an improved pass rush, spearheaded by youngsters Tyler Brayton and Kenyon Coleman, could make a difference vs. the pass. Biggest disappointment: A lack of cohesiveness in last year's top-ranked offense, primarily along the offensive line, is troubling. The line is still having trouble against the league's speed rushers on the outside, and the rotation at the center position could become an issue. Injury update: Center Barret Robbins' knee is making progress, and he could be ready by the opener. Defensive end DeLawrence Grant is day-to-day with a bruised knee. Running back Charlie Garner has been slowed by a knee problem and may get some rest time. Tight end Roland Williams (knee) is still unable to practice and could start the season inactive. Two young corners, Phillip Buchanon (hamstring) and Nnamdi Asomugha (shoulder), have missed a lot of camp. Asomugha has returned recently, but Buchanon is still a question mark. Rookie to watch: Teyo Johnson, a wide receiver in college who is being groomed at the tight end position, looks like he could make an immediate impact. He is big, athletic and a hard worker who is earning the trust of quarterback Rich Gannon and his coaches. Part 2, Aug. 12 Veteran to watch: Cornerback Terrance Shaw filled in admirably when injuries plagued the team's starters last year, and now, with an impressive camp, it looks like he's in position to earn the starting job opposite Charles Woodson. Player on the verge: Wide receiver Jerry Porter has stardom written all over him, and he could very easily become Rich Gannon's top target in the passing game this year. His size, speed and skills, along with the array of weapons in Oakland, make it tough for defenses to double-team him. Strongest position: The Raiders are plenty happy with their linebacker and wide receiver corps, but the offensive line gets the nod here. It is viewed by many as the most important and most well-developed part of the team. Loaded with veterans who don't have age concerns, the unit did a masterful job of protecting Rich Gannon until the breakdown in the Super Bowl. When center Barret Robbins returns to the fold, it'll be that much better. Weakest position: With apologies to the ageless Rod Woodson, the safety position is still causing the Raiders' coaching staff some sleepless nights. A lack of confidence in strong safety Derrick Gibson, who has yet to prove himself worthy of being a former first-round pick, is troubling, and Oakland appears vulnerable at the position - even with the recent re-signing of Anthony Dorsett. Part 1, July 18 Most significant change: CB Tory James and SS Anthony Dorsett were both released in the offseason, representing half of the starting secondary. Reasons for optimism: With the exception of FB Jon Ritchie, the Raiders were able to keep the league's top-ranked offense intact for 2003 and, at least on paper, managed to improve defensively. Causes for concern: The Raiders will be relying heavily on CB Phillip Buchanon and SS Derrick Gibson, both of whom have yet to truly prove themselves at the pro level. Though they added some potential in the draft, the Raiders still may be lacking when it comes to generating consistent pressure from the outside. The yearly concern of age crops up as well, as a lot of Oakland's key contributors continue to defy Father Time. Training-camp battles to watch: DeLawrence Grant figures to have one of the DE spots wrapped up, but the other is up for grabs between old-timer Trace Armstrong, the injured Tony Bryant and explosive rookies Tyler Brayton, Sam Williams and Shurron Pierson. The FB role is also unclaimed, though short-yardage specialist Zack Crockett may have an early edge over free-agent additions Cecil Martin and Chris Hetherington. Don't be surprised if: WR Jerry Porter becomes Rich Gannon's No. 1 target.
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Material from Pro Football Weekly.
