Thus far, the electricity around training camp has reflected a renewed energy from the top of the organization down to the players. General manager Reggie McKenzie acknowledged this Raider resurgence on Monday, per Oakland Tribune writer Jerry McDonald:
Y’all can’t tell? It’s obvious. I think we’re big and strong. I think we’re fast. I like the way the players are responding to the coaches. The energy is off the chain. It’s looking the way I like it to look.
Players are flying around, going in the right directions. It’s been a competitive camp. I mean every position. These guys are feeling it. It’s going to bring out the best in each and every one of them.
As McKenzie noted, the coaching staff continues to promote fierce competition between teammates in preparation for the regular season. It’s one of the two themes head coach Jack Del Rio harped on from the minute he became head coach.
The second theme was a "calculated swagger" highlighted by physicality, a vision Del Rio shared via SiriusXM NFL Radio (h/t CSNCalifornia.com)
Defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. echoed Del Rio's desire to see the Raiders play hard and smart during his open press conference Monday. According to ESPN’s Bill Williamson, Norton aims to remodel the Raiders defense as a replica of the Seattle Seahawks defense, which he served as the linebackers coach for the last five seasons.
The offensive upgrades look promising on paper and at training camp. Quarterback Derek Carr enters his second year under center with the top wide receiver in the 2015 draft, Amari Cooper.
Carr and veteran wide receiver Michael Crabtree forged an early bond on the field, linking up on several pass play...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
