2010 Oakland Raiders: Are The Raiders Pretenders Or Contenders in 2010?

The attittude in Oakland has changed.

Not only does it seem like the coaches and players are expecting to win in 2010, but the Raider Nation also appears to expect a big season in 2010.

The Raiders have had a different kind of offseason thus far. Normally the buzz surrounding the Raiders is about who they bring in during the offseason. In the past they've made headlines by bringing in guys like Warren Sapp, Randy Moss, DeAngelo Hall, Gabril Wilson, and Richard Seymour.

There are usually more questions than answers after recent drafts. The projects the Raiders have picked in recent first rounds usually have the critics and fans scratching their heads.

This offseason is much different.

Perhaps the biggest story up until now is who they have let go of rather than who they have brought in. While they have added guys like Jason Campbell, Kamerion Wimbley and Quentin Groves, it's who is no longer on the team that has been the biggest splash.

JaMarcus Russell, Justin Fargas, Gerrard Warren, Javon Walker, Cornell Green, and Kirk Morrison are among the guys no longer on the roster from 2009. While some of those players were fan favorites and some were the reason for the Raiders struggles its hard to argue with the moves.

The draft even brought in players that will be able to contribute on the field on day one. Rolando McClain is expected to start at middle linebacker after being picked in the first round by the Raiders.

Bruce Campbell and Jared Veldheer were rookie linemen that will give the Raiders depth they didn't have last year along the offensive line. Perhaps one or both of them could land a starting spot along the offensive line.

The Raiders hired Hue Jackson to call the plays and retained head coach Tom Cable to keep the much needed continuity at the head coaching position.

This is arguably the best offseason the O...

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