The Oakland Raiders have a much older roster this upcoming season than they have had in the past. The team loaded up on veterans during free agency in hopes of pushing the team back into contention sooner rather than later. The Raiders are looking for their young players to take time developing while the older ones lead the way, a different approach than seasons in the past. While many are expected to step up in the new situation, Charles Woodson has all the confidence that everyone responds accordingly.
Once again, attention will be on the quarterback play for the Oakland Raiders during training camp. The team acquired Matt Schaub in the offseason after his stock dropped with the Houston Texans, along with drafting rookie Derek Carr to supposedly take of the offense in the next year or two. However, some NFL sources believe that Carr could be seeing playing time sooner than expected if things pan out in training camp. Woodson on the other hand has all the faith in the world that Schaub is the right man for the job.
"I think every man on the team is counting on him being the guy," Woodson said on Sirius XM NFL Radio. "You know, you bring him over from Houston, and it's been duly noted about the struggles that he had last year. But you can't discount the year that he had before last year so we're looking at last year as being an anomaly and that not being the true Matt Schaub."
Schaub has been named the starter heading into the training camp and will be relying on an offense by committee for his success rather than a lone proven super star. While his numbers in 2012 were impressive throwing for 4,008 yards and 22 touchdowns, he did not even come close to that in 2013 which rightfully has fans worried. Schaub is confident that in the new setting he does nothing but succeed.
The run game will also be captivating Oakland beat writers during training camp. The Raiders did the unthinkable and re-signed Darren McFadden to a contract extension while also bringing in Maurice Jones-Drew who was in need of a career resurgence as well. Head coach Dennis Allen has yet to confirm which running back would start, but did say that McFadden is expected to be used in multiple ways. Oakland is putting a lot of faith in veterans which could pay off well or be met with disappointment.