The Oakland Raiders have struggled in recent years and finished 2007 less than admirably with a final record of 4-12. Some fans blame coach Lane Kiffin for the loss, and possibly owner Al Davis shares that sentiment. However, Kiffin is ready for this season and plans to make up for the team’s shortcomings with new talent in the draft. What were the results of the 2008 Oakland Raiders draft?
The Raiders went in with a strategy and got five draft picks, including first-round pick running back Darren McFadden from the University of Arkansas, cornerback Tyvon Branch from the University of Connecticut, wide receiver Arman Shields from the University of Richmond, defensive end Trevor Scott of the University at Buffalo and wide receiver Chaz Schilens of San Diego State University. The team gave up some draft picks to acquire professional talent from other teams, including Atlanta Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall, New England Patriots offensive tackle Mario Henderson and Denver Broncos defensive tackle Gerard Warren.
Was this move cunning or a waste? Most fans are pleased with DeAngelo Hall, as he is considered to be a great athletic presence and a seasoned quarterback. Mario Henderson is a more confusing trade, as Henderson had yet to make a significant difference for the Raiders when he was signed. Gerard Warren was received less enthusiastically. This left only five picks for the Raiders. How did fans and NFL pundits respond to Oakland’s cautious draft pick?
Running back Darren McFadden is a flashier option than some expected, especially experts hoping for stronger defensive linemen. However, few doubt McFadden’s abilities. The Raiders sacrificed an additional draft pick to move up four spots so they could acquire cornerback Tyvon Branch. It was worth it? At a glance, yes, since Tyvon Branch is a great athlete. However, Tyvon Branch was clearly not the best choice when it comes to athletics. He took a bit of maneuvering to pick Arman Shields, including the loss of Fabian Washington. However, Shields was on the disabled list for most of his senior season and most pundits consider his pick a reach. Only time will tell if drafting Shields was a long-term win for the team.
The team’s most popular draft picks were the bottom round players, including Trevor Scott and Chaz Schilens. Scott was highly regarded for his defensive skills, and defense was one of the factors the Raiders were looking to improve. The defensive line was a necessity for the Raiders and they finally addressed it here. Schilens is also in excellent shape, and Raiders management seems to appreciate well-rounded athletes as football players. Overall, the Raiders seem to stick to their tried and tested ways, ignoring the team’s needs in favor of choosing the most athletic draft options. The Raiders can improve this season as they have some promising talent in their midst. For now, though, improving to a 4-12 record for next season may be his most realistic goal.