Tyler Wilson is in the midst of preparing for his first season in the NFL. Now with the Oakland Raiders, the quarterback is gearing up for a season that could see him as either a backup or possible starter depending on how training camp pans out. After a slew of offseason workouts, the quarterback feels more prepared for a quarterback competition in Oakland.
"You understand that it is important that you continue to maintain your body and everything that goes into the season," Wilson said. "That way when you get into training camp here in the next couple week you are ready to go and it's a lot different than college because you step into training camp and you've got a preseason game the next week. The season is right around the corner and I'm excited."
The Raiders will enter into training camp at the end of July with Wilson getting his first piece of NFL action on Aug. 9 against the Dallas Cowboys. The headlines surrounding the Raiders have been with the ongoing quarterback competition. While Matt Flynn is the expected starter for the Raiders come Week 1, Wilson intends on giving the battle everything he has. Terelle Pryor and Matt McGloin will also be in the mix for the position.
Wilson has been enjoying the challenge of the NFL. Now in a much different environment than with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Wilson recognizes the challenges of professional football and he likes taking them on.
"It's been an eye opener experience playing in a new system and a new environment but it's been awesome," Wilson said. "I've enjoyed the challenge and everything that's gone through it. It's good to be back home and get a little bit of a break but continue to work on some things before we get into summer workouts."
Head coach Dennis Allen has been impressed with what he has seen from Wilson so far in Oakland. While remaining complimentary of the rookie's abilities on the field, he believes Wilson still has a long ways to go before he is stepping in as the starting quarterback.
Allen remains firm in the belief that Flynn is the starting quarterback until something shows him otherwise. Wilson is aware that he has a battle ahead of him, but is prepared and excited for the challenge.
