Fargas Signs a Contract with...

[Rupert]

the Raiders (http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=38360).

Justin Fargas Re-Signs with Raiders
February 13, 2008

RB Justin Fargas signs his new contract in the Hall of Fame room at the Raiders Alameda, Calif., facility.
Raiders.com

The Oakland Raiders have re-signed running back Justin Fargas..
Fargas is coming off a 1,000-yard rushing performance, posting 1,009 yards on 222 carries with four touchdowns and a 4.5-yards per rushing attempt average in 2007.

Fargas recorded a career-high 179 yards during the Silver and Black’s 35-17 win over the Dolphins in Miami last season. Fargas had four 100-yard games in 2007 and has five overall in his NFL career.

After being inserted into the starting lineup in Week 9, Fargas was having an outstanding season, averaging nearly 100 yards per game until being sidelined with an injury in Week 15.

In addition to leading the Raiders in rushing in 2007, Fargas also led the team in total yards from scrimmage and all-purpose yards (1,009 rushing, 188 receiving).

The third round draft choice by the Silver and Black in 2003 out of the University of Southern California has totaled 2,025 yards and six touchdowns in five NFL seasons and has added 50 receptions for 358 yards receiving. In addition, Fargas has returned 16 kickoffs for 315 yards.

Fargas returns to a running back corps that includes Dominic Rhodes., LaMont Jordan. and Michael Bush., the highly regarded fourth round pick of the Raiders in 2007 who sat out the season while rehabbing a college leg injury. That unit produced 2,086 yards rushing in 2007, which ranked fourth in the AFC and sixth in the NFL.

[007]

Good stuff.

Any terms or length disclosed?

[CrossBones]

I'd guess Fargas didn't break the bank. I'm happy to see him back. No idea what it means if McFadden is there for us.

I'm still on the DL bandwagon.

[Rupert]

That's direct from the Raiders site. Haven't looked beyond that.

[BigTron]

I'd guess Fargas didn't break the bank. I'm happy to see him back. No idea what it means if McFadden is there for us.

I'm still on the DL bandwagon.

The Jake Long Raider stock just went up.

[Madturk]

Man I hope that puts the DMac to Oakland rumors to bed. Good resigning IMO.

[massraider]

Man I hope that puts the DMac to Oakland rumors to bed. Good resigning IMO.

Yes and yes. So much for the idea that Fargas was gonna break the bank escaping from Oakland.

[007]

Let's see:

Keep Kiffin, hire Lofton, lose Brayton and re-sign Fargas?

I'd say we're off to a decent start.

[raiderfreak7]

I like it. Allows us to have, at worst, a Fargas/Bush backfield. Does anyone expect us to keep Rhodes if he doesn't restructure?

[Madturk]

Let's see:

Keep Kiffin, hire Lofton, lose Brayton and re-sign Fargas?

I'd say we're off to a decent start.

Well four out of five ain't bad, we re-signed Sam:p
It will be interesting to see how the Rhodes situation plays out. A lot of money invested in a back-up plus we have Echemandu for depth and some real good rb value in the draft.

[raiderfreak7]

RAIDERS RE-UP FARGAS

After generating only 1,016 yards in four full seasons with the Raiders, running back Justin Fargas busted out in 2007, nearly equaling that totaling 14 games, with seven starts.

For that, Fargas has been rewarded with a new contract. According to Adam Schefter of NFL Network, it's a three-year, $12 million deal with $6 million in guaranteed money.

Fargas was a third-round pick in the 2003 draft. He was scheduled to become a free agent on February 29.

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

[Madturk]

Beat me to it

[007]

Cheap production there.

Guys like Henry and Jordan are getting damn near double.

[Jack's sore libido]

I think this means Jordan is definitely done in Oakland.

[CrossBones]

I think this means Jordan is definitely done in Oakland.Whoooooooooooooooooooooooooo. :righton:

I'm actually sick of that guy and his lack of conditioning and effort. He talked a good game but he doesn't seem to have that fire in his belly. I really want him off this team.

[Jack's sore libido]

He wants to have the fire. He just doesn't know how to.

[Raidermania12]

I dont believe Jordan is fired until i see it. I hate his guts as a player and think he is the most inconsistently dedicated player on our offense. He is a cancer imo if he doesnt get touches since his first priority is getting touches rather than earning them. .

[raiderfreak7]

I think if Kiffin has his way than Jordan is done as a Raider. Him not even dressing for games and barely getting carries in others is a testament to that. Hopefully Al isn't fooled.

[007]

I think anyone can see the writing on the wall for Lamont Jordan.

Re-signed Fargas, give Rhodes the late season carries, sign Joe Echemandu...

Jordan is a very expensive 4th stringer. He's done in Silver and Black.

Good riddance.

[nin]

Good news, now hopefully we land Ellis or Dorsey.

[raiderfreak7]

Dorsey, Ellis, Long...Dorsey, Ellis, Long...Dorsey, Ellis, Long....don't fuck this up Al.

[BigTron]

People making too much money:

Simms, Lamountain, Gallery, G.Warren, Sands and Grove

[doingthisinsteadofwork]

of those players only Gallery is worth keeping.maybe Warren to if he can be consistent.

[BigTron]

of those players only Gallery is worth keeping.maybe Warren to if he can be consistent.

Gallery needs to take a serious paycut. I do want to keep him tho. But he is being paid like a all pro LT.

[RaiderIVlife]

Let's see:

Keep Kiffin, hire Lofton, lose Brayton and re-sign Fargas?

I'd say we're off to a decent start.

Funny, watch the Raiders have their best offseason in years after all the previous (and ongoing) speculation that everything is rotten in Alameda.

I've never said that everything is rosy in Oakland, but I think there is more reason to believe that things are still headed in the right direction now than in previous years.

Last years draft has already yielded a starting QB, TE, FB and DL. The future would seem 'there' for Michael Bush as well. Jury is out on Henderson of course.

Another solid draft and just a couple of solid sprinkles in FA and this is a playoff team. Give me a starting caliber veteran at OLB, WR and Safety, draft along OL & DL (these guys are closest to plug & play IMO) and I think we can challenge SD for the Division title. (shrug)

[RaiderIVlife]

of those players only Gallery is worth keeping.maybe Warren to if he can be consistent.

Co-signed.

[hawaiianboy]

What? No jokes about how the ever injured Huggy sprained his ankle walking in to sign his contract? About how he fumbled the pen?... My have times changed for the former Nation whipping boy... The zero has certainly turned into a hero hasn't he?... Let's hope the 'he must be resigned' Cinderfella doesn't turn into a pumpkin the way the 'he must be resigned' Terdell Sands did in the eyes of many Raider fans (yeah I'm looking at you Bub)...

It's not a very prohibitive contract at all... Kinda has more of a let's see how things shake out rather than a he's the man feel to it... I don't think this takes McFadden out of play at all... With only $6 million dollars of Huggy's contract guaranteed and all due in year 1, it is essentially a one year deal, which someone cynical could view as a hedge to the '08 progress of a Michael Bush and/or Darren McFadden...

[Langlier]

What? No jokes about how the ever injured Huggy sprained his ankle walking in to sign his contract? About how he fumbled the pen?... My have times changed for the former Nation whipping boy... The zero has certainly turned into a hero hasn't he?... Let's hope the 'he must be resigned' Cinderfella doesn't turn into a pumpkin the way the 'he must be resigned' Terdell Sands did in the eyes of many Raider fans (yeah I'm looking at you Bub)...

It's not a very prohibitive contract at all... Kinda has more of a let's see how things shake out rather than a he's the man feel to it... I don't think this takes McFadden out of play at all... With only $6 million dollars of Huggy's contract guaranteed and all due in year 1, it is essentially a one year deal, which someone cynical could view as a hedge to the '08 progress of a Michael Bush and/or Darren McFadden...

I'd say the only chance we take mcfadden is if we end up at pick 4 and ellis, dorsey, and long are the first 3 off the board.

[SoCalRaider]

Very solid move by Al's Raiders... unfortunately this has no impact on drafting that bust MdFadden. Al took D.Russell when he had Fat Chester. Al took Bo when he had Allen. The more trophies the better........

[Crow]

6 mill guaranteed. Not bad.

I'm for it.

We sure all 6 mill is in year 1? That's definitely a non-committal contract.

I'm still in favor of dropping a late round pick on a back. Maybe Mike Hart. But, then again, I'm in favor of drafting a RB every year.

People making too much money:

Simms
No one by this name currently on the roster.

Gallery needs to take a serious paycut. I do want to keep him tho. But he is being paid like a all pro LT.
He's still on his rookie contract. He's fine.

[BigTron]

6 mill guaranteed. Not bad.

I'm for it.

We sure all 6 mill is in year 1? That's definitely a non-committal contract.

I'm still in favor of dropping a late round pick on a back. Maybe Mike Hart. But, then again, I'm in favor of drafting a RB every year.


No one by this name currently on the roster.


He's still on his rookie contract. He's fine.

Sorry asshole. I will spell it right just for you next time. 2 Gallery is far from alright and makes way too much to be a below average guard. Im factoring the ridiculous penalties.

[Crow]

You're also factoring in that this was his first year in this scheme and the fact that he was a tackle the year before, right?

No?

I see.


Gallery's fine, and he'll only get better provided that he's left at guard and we keep Cable around.

[Raidermania12]

It's not a very prohibitive contract at all... Kinda has more of a let's see how things shake out rather than a he's the man feel to it... I don't think this takes McFadden out of play at all... With only $6 million dollars of Huggy's contract guaranteed and all due in year 1, it is essentially a one year deal, which someone cynical could view as a hedge to the '08 progress of a Michael Bush and/or Darren McFadden...
You dont think it'd be bad drafting to draft another RB in the 1st round with 3 already in place(fargas, bush, and rhodes) and a fourth we could be stuck with in jordan? Especially with our defensive issues and a scheme that doesnt make McFadden a need? I can only hope that even Al Davis at his most Spooky isnt that crazy.:o

[NIPS]

Fargas had 1000 yards in just 7 starts.. Dude was on track to crack 2 G's

I dont recall the exact yards but didnt Rhodes rip off like 130 yards a couple times there in the end?

I actually thought Rhodes looked very good..

I thought the key to the Giants game was that initial 9 minutes they burned off in the 1st Qtr slamming the ball. Outstanding coaching by the G-Men.

With this cutblock scheme we have, and the reults are certainly there to give any decent back the opportunity to really produce far more numbers than normal.

Raiders need to target Corey Williams. Draft Dorsey or Ellis and that'll give us a nice rotation Williams, Dorsey/Ellis, Sands and Warren at the DT position

Sam Baker if'n he fell to early rd 2

[jatfly]

Glad to see him paid and not overpaid.
I still have my doubts about him, I have to worry about his health.
I also think Rhodes will produce in this offense.
I am really excited to see Bush, (Insert Beavis & Butthead laugh here!) this preseason. I like Bush (see above comment) and we all know he would have been take in the top 10 or 15 if not for his injury in college......
Good start to the offseason. Let's pray Al doesn't screw this first round pick up.....

Now Al and Kiffin go get us some addtional D and O line help a Safety, and a couple WR's maybe a even a Top tier LB and I would be so thrilled.

[YodasBeast]

Glad to see him paid and not overpaid.
I still have my doubts about him, I have to worry about his health.
I also think Rhodes will produce in this offense.
I am really excited to see Bush, (Insert Beavis & Butthead laugh here!) this preseason. I like Bush (see above comment) and we all know he would have been take in the top 10 or 15 if not for his injury in college......
Good start to the offseason. Let's pray Al doesn't screw this first round pick up.....

Now Al and Kiffin go get us some addtional D and O line help a Safety, and a couple WR's maybe a even a Top tier LB and I would be so thrilled.

Now if we could only get TG to say that....:D

[Madturk]

Corey Williams may get tagged by GB, if not, he'll be the premier FA DT, so the likelihood of us signing him is pretty much nil. I'd like to see how the whole Kris Jenkins scenario plays out in Carolina. Looks like they could part ways this offseason.

[RHC]

Corey Williams may get tagged by GB, if not, he'll be the premier FA DT, so the likelihood of us signing him is pretty much nil.I don't see why. IMO the only reason the likelihood would be nil is if Williams is absolutely dead set against playing in OAK. Which is certainly a possibility. But the chances aren't nil.

Al has money to play with. Williams is a damn good DT, and signing him would leave Al free to either pick McFadden/Long or trade down and ass-fuck some team.

[jatfly]

Here is a Nice List of FREE AGENT


RANKINGS
Rk Pos Name Type Team
1 OLB Lance Briggs UFA Chicago
2 DE Jared Allen UFA Kansas City
3 CB Marcus Trufant UFA Seattle
4 CB Asante Samuel UFA New England
5 OG Alan Faneca UFA Pittsburgh
6 OLB Terrell Suggs UFA Baltimore
7 WR Randy Moss UFA New England
8 OT Flozell Adams UFA Dallas
9 DT Albert Haynesworth UFA Tennessee
10 TE Dallas Clark UFA Indianapolis
11 S Ken Hamlin UFA Dallas
12 OT Jordan Gross UFA Carolina
13 OLB Karlos Dansby UFA Arizona
14 RB Marion Barber III RFA Dallas
15 OLB Michael Boley RFA Atlanta
16 K Rob Bironas RFA Tennessee
17 DE Justin Smith UFA Cincinnati
18 RB Michael Turner UFA San Diego
19 OG Larry Allen UFA San Franciso
20 S Sammy Knight UFA Jacksonville

[CrossBones]

Gallery needs to take a serious paycut.I guess because he's in his rookie contract that isn't possible but really the man has stolen all that money for the last 4 years.

... With only $6 million dollars of Huggy's contract guaranteed and all due in year 1We're all talking about $6 Million dollars like it's chopped liver. Funny how the fan has been conditioned to throw around these numbers like they don't mean anything. $6 Million? That's a pretty good career for a lot of Americans.

...the only reason the likelihood would be nil is if Williams is absolutely dead set against playing in OAK..Word.

[massraider]

It has been proven before that players go where the money is. If the money is right, I wouldn't rule out any player.

Our situation makes us less attractive, but 26 mill in cap room makes us a lot sexier.

[Crow]

So we're finally the ugly bitch with the fat ass? Well, that's at least an upgrade.

[Madturk]

Problem is, a lot of other teams have just as much cap room if not more. I think San Diego is at the top of the list as far as available cap room. That's pretty scary as they are pretty stacked as it is. Imagine them with an Ocho Cinco or a Karlos Dansby

[RHC]

Problem is, a lot of other teams have just as much cap room if not more. I think San Diego is at the top of the list as far as available cap room. That's pretty scary as they are pretty stacked as it is. Imagine them with an Ocho Cinco or a Karlos DansbyOr both..................

[RHC]

So we're finally the ugly bitch with the fat ass? Well, that's at least an upgrade.Yeah, with Kiffin and Russell here I think we got rid of the hairy warts and the man-hands.

[hawaiianboy]

We sure all 6 mill is in year 1? That's definitely a non-committal contract.

It was linked in that PFT article yesterday, not there anymore... IIRC the breakdown was a $4.7M signing bonus and a $1.3m base... Rotoworld has this:

Contract Information for Justin Fargas
2/13/2008: Signed a three-year, $12 million contract. The deal contains $6 million in guarantees, all in the first year. Another $2 million is available through incentives.



You dont think it'd be bad drafting to draft another RB in the 1st round with 3 already in place(fargas, bush, and rhodes) and a fourth we could be stuck with in jordan?

Jordan is definitely gone and with at least $3M due Rhodes, he is likely to follow Jordan out the door as well... If not, he'd be in the final year of his contract... Fargas is coming off yet another injury and basically on a one year deal and Bush hasn't played ball in over two years... Lot of if's there and a situation that needs to be looked at with an eye beyond the 2008 season... I'd much prefer drafting McFadden than taking a lesser player just because that player happens to play at a "need" position...




We're all talking about $6 Million dollars like it's chopped liver. Funny how the fan has been conditioned to throw around these numbers like they don't mean anything. $6 Million? That's a pretty good career for a lot of Americans.


If there was a complaint about the traffic or the post office in there, it would have been like having my deceased grandpa back again...

[CrossBones]

If there was a complaint about the traffic or the post office in there, it would have been like having my deceased grandpa back again...:rotf: ... I was complaining about the post office yesterday. Buncha dumb fucks wandering around those joints.

[S and B Executioner]

I'd say the only chance we take mcfadden is if we end up at pick 4 and ellis, dorsey, and long are the first 3 off the board.


I dont buy that at all, I think if Al has any wits about him, he is gonna position himself for a trade down. RB is pretty well locked up, depending on how far along Bush is in his recovery. He should be 100% by camp!

That leaves a few more glaring needs. DE, DT and WR are the "highbeams in your eyes" needs with OT and Safety bringing up the rear.

No where on that list is the need for a skinny legged RB who carries the ball in the wrong hand and is alot like LaMont in that he crumples like a speeding ticket in my hand at first contact. No, I doubt Al or Lane want that.

I could see Al trading out of whatever selection we have if Chris Long is gone. Pick up an extra pick in 1 or 2 and grab a guy like Ryan Clady in Rd 1 and Early Doucet in Round 2.

[S and B Executioner]

Sorry asshole. I will spell it right just for you next time. 2 Gallery is far from alright and makes way too much to be a below average guard. Im factoring the ridiculous penalties.

Below average guard??

Yes, he is no Steve Wisniewski or anything like that, but hell, dude was way beyond solid as a guard in his first year in the system! Cut the guy some slack. He should take a pay cut, but to say he is waaay below average is just like saying you didn't watch a single game last season!

[Madturk]

I dont buy that at all, I think if Al has any wits about him, he is gonna position himself for a trade down. RB is pretty well locked up, depending on how far along Bush is in his recovery. He should be 100% by camp!



I think you'll see a few teams trying to trade down this draft but easier said than done. Here's another in the myriad of trade down scenarios which will never come to fruition anyway. Carolina is pretty desperate for a QB. Matt Ryan would be a good fit for them as they look to draft their heir apparent. Delhomme is at the end of the line and David Carr basically......has a real bad hair cut. Assuming Ryan is available when we draft, we swap our 3 or 4 with Carolina's #13. In return we receive Carolina's 2nd and 3rd round picks and Kris Jenkins:D

[RHC]

If there was a complaint about the traffic or the post office in there, it would have been like having my deceased grandpa back again...:pound:

Dude, you made me blow milk out of my nose!

Well, not really. But I would have if I had milk in my mouth at the time. And if I actually drank milk.

Anyway, you get what I'm saying.

[RHC]

We're all talking about $6 Million dollars like it's chopped liver. Funny how the fan has been conditioned to throw around these numbers like they don't mean anything. $6 Million? That's a pretty good career for a lot of Americans.My trusty calculator says the $6M is only 5.2% of the $116M 2008 salary cap.

I'm not sure how this thing is structured, but it really doesn't matter to me. I like the deal.

[Stanny]

The last I saw, we are about $26.5 million in cap space and that does not take into account of Porter, Carlisle, Brayton, Warren and Sapp. If I'm Al, you can bet your sweet ass the dead weight of Jordan, Sims (if we can find a FA replacement) and a Stuey Schwag are at the top of my list. You cut lose that dead weight, along with the folks who voided their contracts and Sapp...The Raiders should be in the low to mid $30 million dollar range which could attract some Free Agents to fill some much needed spots. Plus every year we re-structure a few guys.

I know Raiderville is a mess, but as Kiffin stated "players want to get paid." Al if your're reading this, check the plan oh Dark One. (This is about the 3rd time I've done this and its changed each time...:D)

Resign-Scrabble to long term
LT-Travelle Wharton (Later Sims)
WR-Bernard Berrian (Later Porter)
RG- Re-sign Carlisle or maybe add a Ruben Brown
S-Ken Hamlin or Gabriel Wilson
KR/WR-Andre Davis (our PR/KR game has been terrible for years)


Draft:

RD 1 DE Chris Long/DTSedrick Ellis/Dorsey
RD 2 DT Pat Sims/Dre Moore
RD 4 WR DJ Hall
RD 6 C - Jordan Lipsey

[Stanny]

Wow that was quick.....

Panthers | Team re-signs Wharton
Thu, 14 Feb 2008 11:00:24 -0800

Charles Chandler, of The Charlotte Observer, reports the Carolina Panthers re-signed OT Travelle Wharton to a six-year deal Thursday, Feb. 14. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

[Raidermania12]

Jordan is definitely gone and with at least $3M due Rhodes, he is likely to follow Jordan out the door as well... If not, he'd be in the final year of his contract... Fargas is coming off yet another injury and basically on a one year deal and Bush hasn't played ball in over two years... Lot of if's there and a situation that needs to be looked at with an eye beyond the 2008 season... I'd much prefer drafting McFadden than taking a lesser player just because that player happens to play at a "need" position...
1.) Jordan is still here.
2.)Rhodes is still here.
3.)Only a crazy man predicts either one of their fates at this point in Oakland(muthafuggas cant even legitimately predict kiffin's fate yet). Again until both of them are gone, Darren McFadden is a bad pick. The "weak but needed" position thing is bs to me, theres a great crop of defensive players in this draft.
4.) How many 1st round Rb's has Dungver drafted? Its not a priority, and it was pointless to bring their scheme in if it was. Spend that money on defense.

[hawaiianboy]

1.) Jordan is still here.
2.)Rhodes is still here.
3.)Only a crazy man predicts either one of their fates at this point in [B]Oakland

Saying that Jordan is gone isn't exactly going out on the limb, neither is speculating that Rhodes is carrying too much money to be a back up... In any event if we're going to be semantical about it, I'll be a "crazy man" and say that Jordan being here in '08 and Rhodes re-upping in '09 is not very likely..


Again until both of them are gone, Darren McFadden is a bad pick.

In my view, you make a pick with the future in mind and not just how it impacts the coming year, but to each his own... Obviously neither Jordan or Rhodes are long term answers and there are more questions than answers about Fargas and Bush as well...


The "weak but needed" position thing is bs to me, theres a great crop of defensive players in this draft.



We needed a safety and had Dudley so we bypassed a higher rated player in Todd Heap... Long and Dorsey probably come off the board before we pick.. I take Mcfadden over Ellis because I think McFadden is the better player even though we have a greater "need" at DT...

4.) How many 1st round Rb's has Dungver drafted? Its not a priority, and it was pointless to bring their scheme in if it was. Spend that money on defense.

When we actually run the same scheme and have the same coaches for more than a couple of years in a row, this may have some relevance to us... As it is, we don't even know if Kiffin is our coach this coming season much less past that... Al's never been a big fan of this blocking scheme, it was a point of contention between he, Shanahan and Alex Gibbs when they coached here and we dumped it pretty quick once Shanahan was cut loose... I wouldn't pass on a RB or an O- lineman because that's what Denver is able to do because we are far, far more likely to see a change in thought process than they are...

[CrossBones]

It's been difficult for the Raiders coach up any of their players. The continuity issue on the coaching staff has precluded that. Draw your own conclusions as to what needs to be done but the lack of continuity is frightening. We're now going on 5 years of change every other year. Dysfunctional comes to mind immediately.

[Rupert]

When we actually run the same scheme and have the same coaches for more than a couple of years in a row, this may have some relevance to us... As it is, we don't even know if Kiffin is our coach this coming season much less past that... Al's never been a big fan of this blocking scheme, it was a point of contention between he, Shanahan and Alex Gibbs when they coached here and we dumped it pretty quick once Shanahan was cut loose... I wouldn't pass on a RB or an O- lineman because that's what Denver is able to do because we are far, far more likely to see a change in thought process than they are...

Don't forget what happened to Turner and whoever his OL coach was (forget his name at the moment) after they installed the zone blocking system. BLAM! Art Shell and the old big muscle system.

[007]

Raiders | Team unlikely to bring back Rhodes
Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:08:50 -0800

Steve Corkran, of the Contra Costa Times, reports the Oakland Raiders are not likely to bring back RB Dominic Rhodes for next season.

Raiders | Jordan will likely be released
Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:05:43 -0800

Steve Corkran, of the Contra Costa Times, reports the Oakland Raiders will likely release RB LaMont Jordan

I for one am not at all confident in a trio of Fargas, Bush and Echemandu.

An injury prone seven game starter, a guy who hasnt played in the NFL or had a rushing ATTEMPT in 2 years, and a scrub.

I'll add that I also think its better than 50-50 that Long-Ellis and Dorsey go 1-2-3 if we pick 4th.

McFadden isnt the likely choice, or the the biggest need, but he fills a role, present and future.

[Madturk]

I'm not too worried at this point. Still a lot of good backs in this years draft and there will be guys shaking free over the summer. The least of our worries IMO.

[Langlier]

I for one am not at all confident in a trio of Fargas, Bush and Echemandu.

An injury prone seven game starter, a guy who hasnt played in the NFL or had a rushing ATTEMPT in 2 years, and a scrub.

I'll add that I also think its better than 50-50 that Long-Ellis and Dorsey go 1-2-3 if we pick 4th.

McFadden isnt the likely choice, or the the biggest need, but he fills a role, present and future.

do you realize how deep this running back class is? we can snag a guy in the 4th and he'll likely have had a 2nd round grade in years past.

[massraider]

I'll add that I also think its better than 50-50 that Long-Ellis and Dorsey go 1-2-3 if we pick 4th.


I think that's just fatalist thinking. McFadden, Jake Long, Ryan, even Gholston could all move up.

[BigTron]

We are in a good spot regardless. We should add to quality starters just like last year. Hopefully more.

[Crow]

Draft:

RD 1 DE Chris Long/DTSedrick Ellis/Dorsey
RD 2 DT Pat Sims/Dre Moore
Now you're talking.

[Stanny]

If we lose the toss to Atlanta, I don' t think McFadden makes it to us. My thoughts, Warrick Dunn is just about done and Norwood has some talent but I don't think he's their "franchise" guy or should I say on the level of DMC. Atlanta could take DMC, pickup a Daunte Culpepper for a year or two and nab a Chad Henne or John David Booty to groom in round two and still grab a solid DT/DE in round three.

I just hope in rounds 1-2 we grab a pair of DT to anchor that line for years to come or a DE and DT to anchor that line....However, I wouldn't bee too pist off of they went after Jake Long rd-1 followed by one of the top talent DT's in round two.

I would also re-sign McCown and try to drop Walter, Stuey and Lamont for a 3rd round pick to a team like Detroit, Chicago, Miami or the Jets.

[Raider Bill]

RD 1 DE Chris Long/DTSedrick Ellis/Dorsey
RD 2 DT Pat Sims/Dre Moore

Draft day perma-boner

[Madturk]

Put that thing back in your pants cuz you know we won't draft DL one/two

[Rupert]

Put that thing back in your pants cuz you know we won't draft DL one/two

CB, yes. OL, yes. DL, are you sure?

[Limee]

I would settle for DL, OL or even OL, DL, not too fussy.

Glad to have Fargas back, he worked his bollocks off last year.

[massraider]

Fargas' deal is nice, because there's little money tied up in the back end. So if he is a one-year wonder, it'll be easy to move him.

Heck, if Bush is the goods, he could actually be traded.

Jordan is gone. The fact that is hasn't happened yet means little.

Rhodes matters little. His contract is easy to take, or get rid of. I don't think he plays arole in any thinking the Raiders do in the draft. I am not sure if he stays or goes, but if the Raiders draft a RB at all, his job may be in jeopardy. I'd rather keep Echemandu than Rhodes at this point.

[Jack's sore libido]

I actually like Rhodes a lot, and hope he gets increased PT next year.

He ran hard against the Jags and Chargers, and showed some wiggle.

He's also a decent kick returner.

[massraider]

I actually like Rhodes a lot, and hope he gets increased PT next year.

He ran hard against the Jags and Chargers, and showed some wiggle.

He's also a decent kick returner.

I liked Rhodes a lot when we signed him, and thought he was fine when he played. For whatever reason, the Raiders never gave him a shot to play.

[Crow]

I'd rather keep Echemandu than Rhodes at this point.

Huh? Why on earth would you want to keep a never-did-nuthin' over a proven player?

I still get a kick out of how that little spin move Rhodes does always seemed to get him some positive yardage. Some guys lower a shoulder. Rhodes gives you his shoulder blades. Go figure.

[Raidermania12]

Rhodes looked sharp everytime he ran consistently to me. Dont see a need to drop him.

[CrossBones]

BACK TO THE PAST...

====================================

On Friday, March 7th, Fargas will be formally awarded the 2007 Commitment to Excellence Award. The Steering Committee for the Booster Clubs of the Oakland Raiders will host a black tie optional dinner at the Hilton - Oakland Airport. The award is given to the player recognized by his teammates as “The player who best exemplifies the pride, poise and spirit of The Oakland Raiders.” :chucle:

[massraider]

Huh? Why on earth would you want to keep a never-did-nuthin' over a proven player?



I love Rhodes. This is what I posted last year before we signed him:

http://www.afcwestforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=22811&postcount=5

I think Rhodes may go looking for #1 money, but I'd like to know who is gonna give it to him. The Colts had him for a while, and he was never a serious threat to take over.

Love his all around game, receiving ability, and ability to produce without being 'the man', however. By fans anyway, I think he's mildly underated. He's not a special back, but he's good.

If Jordan is gone, and we don't walk away with AD or Marshawn, I think he makes a ton of sense as part of a RBBC here.


And I don't want him to go. I'd be fine with Fargas/Bush/Rhodes/Echemandu.

But if it comes down to a roster spot, and Rhodes isn't gonna get reps, I'd rather have Ech's upside (and cheaper price tag) than Dom. Now Ech may be nothing. But he looked good in limited reps, and has a pro body. He seems to like the ZBS, as well. I thought he looked good enough to make the team.

Whoever is 3rd in line won't get much PT, I'd rather keep the young guy that may be something. We know Rhodes isn't a stud.

Anyway, that's my thinking on it. I certainly see the other side, I'd just rather roll the dice with the 3rd RB spot.

[raiderfreak7]

The thing is, I feel Rhodes would be the #2 guy unless Bush can prove he's better than him. I think that' just as much a factor in anything. Can we trust Bush with the load if Fargas goes down (which is a definite possibility)? I think the answer is no. Therefore I feel cutting Rhodes may be a mistake, although economically we may have no choice but to see our RB's go Fargas/Bush/Ech/rookie or something like that.

[Raidermania12]

If we are cutting Jordan, thats enough off the books to me. Let Rhodes keep his money and see what he can do as far as earning it.

[Madturk]

I would try to keep Rhodes if economically feasible but with the deepest RB draft class in some time, it wouldn't surprise me if we cut him loose.

[Crow]

I think that if Ech had any upside, he would have shown it by now. Jus' sayin'.

I'd like to restructure Rhodes and keep him around. He's not a game changer, but he runs hard and catches the ball well. I can always find a use for a guy like that. If he gets 8-10 touches a game, I think he'll be more than happy with his role.

[Jack's sore libido]

I think that if Ech had any upside, he would have shown it by now. Jus' sayin'.

I tend to feel the same way, except that I was starting to feel the same way about Justin Fargas, too ...

[Crow]

Ya got me there.

[Rupert]

I think that if Ech had any upside, he would have shown it by now. Jus' sayin'.

I think Ech has upside, and I think he's shown it. I just don't think his ceiling is near Rhodes's current floor.

Another point on Rhodes, he's shown that even when he's unhappy, he'll give you 100% when he's in the game.

[SoCalRaider]

E and Fargas are completely interchangeable in my opinion. Small, quick, somewhat injury prone scatbacks that will flash in this system, but be nothing more than a seldom used backup in the more traditional systems.

At this point, I'd pretty much consider both of them 1 player that happens to occupy 2 roster spots. As soon as Fargas goes down next year, I fully anticipate E to pick up right where Fargas left off. Hopefully we can get 16 games between the 2 of them.

[Rupert]

I'm personally anxious to see what Bush can bring. Dude was a special talent before he cracked a twig.

[Crow]

Fargas and Echemandu: The same player? There's a fairly odd comparison.
Another point on Rhodes, he's shown that even when he's unhappy, he'll give you 100% when he's in the game.

And that alone should get him a spot on the roster if he still wants it.

[Jack's sore libido]

Fargas and Echemandu: The same player? There's a fairly odd comparison.

Yeah, I don't see that at all.

I see Fargas as a more one-cut, straight-line runner. He doesn't spend much time looking for the hole. He just hits whatever's there. Whereas I see Echemandu as more of a dancer. A more patient runner (which can be both a good and bad thing).

[007]

Fargas and Joe E couldnt have more different running styles.

Echemandu runs much more like Lamont Jordan. Fargas will plow forward and GO, whether there is something there or not.

Couldnt have picked a more inaccurate comparison, IMO.

[Crow]

Fargas is more like Charlie Garner, but with no hands or open field moves.

In other words, nothing at all like Garner other than the fact that neither really have a "plan B" if the gap they're sposed to hit has a defender waiting.

[RaiderIVlife]

Fargas is more like Charlie Garner, but with no hands or open field moves.

In other words, nothing at all like Garner other than the fact that neither really have a "plan B" if the gap they're sposed to hit has a defender waiting.

People still continue to hate on Fargas. :nono:

I thought his 'vision' improved over the course of the year. I think that has everything to do with increased PT and learning how to be a starting RB. Him and Oren O'Neal really started to click towards the end.

Fargas/Rhoads/Bush/TBD sound pretty effective to me.

What really need need is more help along the O-line. Don't be surprised if we draft Jake Long to be the 'franchise LT' that Gallery never became.....

Give me a new starting Center while you're at it. Gallery & Carlise are good enough at Guard (for the time being anyway) and I'm OK with McUgly and the journeyman RT that can run block his ass off at RT (WTF is his name?)

[007]

Mike Hart, Kevin Smith or Matt Forte in the mid rounds would be cool. Maybe trading into round three to land Jamaal Charles/Ray Rice/Steve Slaton if they fall...

You can't have too many RB options. Fuck, last year we had Fargas injured, LJ injured, Bush injured and Griffith banged up...

[Madturk]

What really need need is more help along the O-line. Don't be surprised if we draft Jake Long to be the 'franchise LT' that Gallery never became.....




Just don't see that happening especially with the money Al has invested in Gallery and the generous 3rd we gave up for Henderson last season.

[massraider]

Mike Hart, Kevin Smith or Matt Forte in the mid rounds would be cool. Maybe trading into round three to land Jamaal Charles/Ray Rice/Steve Slaton if they fall...

You can't have too many RB options. Fuck, last year we had Fargas injured, LJ injured, Bush injured and Griffith banged up...

I'd like Forte. Not a burner, but I saw two of his games this year, and really liked his vision.

BTW, according to Jerry Mac, Rhodes has a 3 mill salary, and 2 mill bonus. Or the other way around, but either way, it's a $5 mill cap number.

For our 3rd back. Umm, no. Mac speculates that a pay cut is a possibility, but I think Rhodes may explore other options.

Anyone wanna guess what Ech's number is? $435,000? Somewhere around there.

[007]

Echemandu would be adequate as a 3rd option. I worry about Fargas and Bush as a 1-2 though.

Personally, I fully assume Rhodes and LJ are gone. 10 mil combined salary?

Mass: Forte reminds me a ton of Fargas though. Big, strong, fast and North-South. Doesnt have close to Huggy's speed, but he could be a could backup I think...

[Jack's sore libido]

Forte is a fluid receiver, too, which is something Fargas can't claim.

[Crow]

People still continue to hate on Fargas. :nono:
Not hating at all. Just telling it like it is.

If the play calls for Huggy to hit the B gap, he's going to hit the B gap chest first, regardless of who is or isn't waiting for him there. That's actually kinda fun to watch.

I thought his 'vision' improved over the course of the year. I think that has everything to do with increased PT and learning how to be a starting RB. Him and Oren O'Neal really started to click towards the end.
They both definitely have a role here, though neither really strikes me as our best options.

Fargas/Rhoads/Bush/TBD sound pretty effective to me.
As stated, Rhodes is almost as likely to be gone as Jordan. Mid round rookies and mid-level FAs. I've got my eyes on a few. Still not giving up on my Mewelde Moore jihad.

What really need need is more help along the O-line. Don't be surprised if we draft Jake Long to be the 'franchise LT' that Gallery never became.....
I'm not even convinced that Jake Long is going to be a better pass protector than what we already have on the roster. No one is pretending that pass pro is his strong suit.

Long may not even be the first tackle off the board when it's all said and done.

Give me a new starting Center while you're at it. Gallery & Carlise are good enough at Guard (for the time being anyway) and I'm OK with McUgly and the journeyman RT that can run block his ass off at RT (WTF is his name?)
Green?

Pretty sure Carlisle is gone, so RG is a need as well. Maybe Cornell Green can kick inside. That should at least reduce his tendency to jump early.

[BigTron]

Jake Long is a very good pass protector and gave up 1 sack his senior year to V.Gholston. I was pretty much a coverage sack at that. He went around the outside and the QB pump faked and tried to run and got hit. I dont get where people get this opinion from. He looked great vs Florida so dont give me that big 10 crap either.

1 sack at LT all year. And a dominate run blocker. Projected by Kiper, Mayock and all the heads as a legit LT.

[RaiderIVlife]

Who knows what the Plan is, but I think it would be a mistake to part ways with Rhoads & Carlise. Both are solid, proven veterans. I don't think we're going to spend big time money in FA anyway, so I'd just assume keep solid players and try to fill the other holes.

Hopefully the Raiders feel the same way I do on the subject...

I do agree that Jordan is gone & goner though.

[007]

Jake Long is a very good pass protector and gave up 1 sack his senior year to V.Gholston. I was pretty much a coverage sack at that. He went around the outside and the QB pump faked and tried to run and got hit. I dont get where people get this opinion from. He looked great vs Florida so dont give me that big 10 crap either.

1 sack at LT all year. And a dominate run blocker. Projected by Kiper, Mayock and all the heads as a legit LT.

He gets undersold on his pass pro, but it is very good.

I could live with Jake Long-Pat Sims/Red Bryant in the first two rounds for sure.

[raiderfreak7]

Who knows what the Plan is, but I think it would be a mistake to part ways with Rhoads & Carlise. Both are solid, proven veterans. I don't think we're going to spend big time money in FA anyway, so I'd just assume keep solid players and try to fill the other holes.

Hopefully the Raiders feel the same way I do on the subject...

I do agree that Jordan is gone & goner though.

Carlisle voided his contract which basically means he doesn't want to be here since I doubt he's expecting to strike gold in free agency.

[BigTron]

Carlisle voided his contract which basically means he doesn't want to be here since I doubt he's expecting to strike gold in free agency.

No it just means he can upgrade his contract.

[RHC]

If we are cutting Jordan, thats enough off the books to me. Let Rhodes keep his money and see what he can do as far as earning it.IIRC, Rhodes was pissed about his lack of PT last season. He was told he'd have a shot at starter. I doubt he'd be happy relegated to a definitive backup role.

[Limee]

Carlisle voided his contract which basically means he doesn't want to be here since I doubt he's expecting to strike gold in free agency.

I don't know with the way the salary cap is going, I mean Langston Walker got paid last year.

[Crow]

...and there are some ZBS teams out there looking for a few good linemen. Carlisle won't be unemployed long, I guarantee it.

[Rupert]

I think Carlisle knew he was going to be asked to renegotiate. If you renegotiate, why not get more than one team on the other side of the table? It improves your odds.

I don't think Carlisle doesn't want to be here, I think he wants to get paid what he's worth

[Langlier]

I think Carlisle knew he was going to be asked to renegotiate. If you renegotiate, why not get more than one team on the other side of the table? It improves your odds.

I don't think Carlisle doesn't want to be here, I think he wants to get paid what he's worth

1.2 mill /yr + incentives?

hes about as average an RG as you can get. Was the same when he was a bronco. I'm not worried about replacing him.

[Madturk]

Would be nice to have some continuity with the OL instead of shuffling guys in and out or switching positions every year. Carlisle and Newberry had a lot to do with the resurgence of our OL last year.

[Raidermania12]

IIRC, Rhodes was pissed about his lack of PT last season. He was told he'd have a shot at starter. I doubt he'd be happy relegated to a definitive backup role.
He performed when he played, which i cant say the same for Lamont. Can't see anything bad in a disgruntled guy who still plays 110 percent when you call his number. If he sticks to playing a productive 110 percent i could care less about the disgruntled element. Its not the same mop face bullshit i see lamont doing.

[Jack's sore libido]

He performed when he played, which i cant say the same for Lamont.

I dunno ... last year LaMont played his ass off when he was in there. The year before he was a dipshit, but who wasn't?

[Rupert]

I dunno ... last year LaMont played his ass off when he was in there. The year before he was a dipshit, but who wasn't?

But Jordan's back couldn't hold up to the strain. He was out of shape, and has been since the day he arrived. It's fine if he plays hard, but if his body's not going to back up the checks he's writing on game day, what's the use? Between he and Fargas, we didn't get a complete season last year. Do we really want that?

[Jack's sore libido]

Oh, I'm not advocating for him to be on the roster at all. Just saying that playing hard was not his problem last year.

[RHC]

He performed when he played, No argument there.
which i cant say the same for Lamont. Can't see anything bad in a disgruntled guy who still plays 110 percent when you call his number. If he sticks to playing a productive 110 percent i could care less about the disgruntled element. The lockerroom environment is a big deal for a franchise in disarray. And we sprinted beyond disarray about 3 years ago.

[CrossBones]

The lockerroom environment is a big deal for a franchise in disarray. And we sprinted beyond disarray about 3 years ago.Al disagrees. Chemistry isn't important. :o

[Raidermania12]

The lockerroom environment is a big deal for a franchise in disarray. And we sprinted beyond disarray about 3 years ago.

Which i dont think disgruntled players can effect if they keep their complaints to a minimal and still give 110 percent, he did. You think Fabs is happy about losing his spot? I bet he's let it be known too. Players are competitive, so you are going to get that. IMO it was his hunger to prove himself that fed his frustration. Not a "you owe me playing time because i'm me" element like lamont. But i do agree that whiners who do nothing for us (i.e. moss, jordan, and even Porter at times) need to be gone. Just dont know if i'd put Rhodes in that spot.

[Raidermania12]

I dunno ... last year LaMont played his ass off when he was in there. The year before he was a dipshit, but who wasn't?

Not after he lost his job. he was half assing it imo at that point. everytime he came in after fargas, he played very pussy compared to when he was starting.