The Oakland Raiders are looking towards Friday's game against the Chicago Bears to establish a few things about the team. With issues still remaining on the offensive line, the third preseason game will be crucial for several players looking to establish themselves of stars of the team. Head coach Dennis Allen is ready for a few offensive weapons to prove their worth and for rookie DJ Hayden to get his first NFL start under his belt.
Hayden will be appearing for this first time since suffering an injury to his heart. It was a long road to recovery, but the rookie cornerback will see NFL game time for the first time against Chicago.
"I'm looking forward to my first NFL game. Can't wait to get out there and play," Hayden said, via the Associated Press. "I want to go ahead and shake the rust off. Get wet a little bit. Can't wait."
Hayden was Oakland's first-round draft pick. Fans have been anxiously awaiting his debut. He has been sidelined as a "no contact" player for most of training camp. Hayden has only participated in pregame warm-ups during the preseason games. Allen is ready to see the team's investment finally hit the field.
"I just want to see him play football," Allen said. "It's been a while since he's really had an opportunity to go out and play real football. I'm looking forward to watching him. He's done some really good things in this camp. He's got exceptional coverage skills. I think everyone is anxious to see when he has his first real live contact."
The Chicago game will be crucial for wide receiver Denarious Moore. Offensive coordinator Greg Olson has been hard on Moore. The team is expecting him to become the No. 1 wide receiver this season. Olson is stressing maturity for the young player. The Raiders are in real need of an offensive threat. Quarterback Matt Flynn and Moore have been working on chemistry throughout training camp. They connected for an 18-yard touchdown pass against the Saints.
Darren McFadden will also be looking to establish himself in this game. The running back is entering a crucial contract year. With the shakiness of the offensive line, McFadden's production could be impacted. The running back is looking to have a return to his 2010 season where he rushed for 1,100 yards. He has yet to follow that up with something close to those numbers.
The Raiders are a team on the brink. Their second preseason game against New Orleans did not go as planned and the team hopes to turn things around this season. With a roster of young talent, the more experience everyone gets on the field, the better they will become. Allen will use these final games to really establish a steady roster.
