Oakland Raiders 2014 Training Camp: Daily Rewind – Day 5

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Raiders wrapped up their fourth practice during Day 5 of training camp on Monday. This was their second practice in a row with the pads on, Coach Allen said they want to get the guys some early padded practices. Allen said this would allow the team to see if they can keep up the pace of more padded sessions or if they need to ease up a bit.

Injury news

Greg Little didn’t finish practice with a tweaked hamstring. Jurion Criner missed practice with a hamstring as well. I think Jurion will not make the 52 man roster. Defensive Back Shelton Johnson was out with a hamstring. Kaluka (hamstring) and Marshall McFadden (hip flexor) were also still out. No other changes with regard to injuries on this day.

Schaub solid

Matt Schaub put together another solid practice, especially in the red zone period. He’s building a nice rapport with James Jones, is hitting everyone in stride, coming out of breaks and trusting them to make a play for him in tight coverage. Really really good news about Schaub coming from everyone watching the Raiders practices. I’m starting to get a little giddy, but let’s see this translate over to game action and I may have to buy a Schaub jersey.

Mack showing flashes

First round pick, Mr. Mack, is starting to show flashes in camp. A pass rush here, a one-handed catch during a drill there and sprinkle in a thud on MJD during the team period. Even got GM Reggie McKenzie comparing him to Clay Mathews. TJ Carrie had another solid day. Chekwa also did some good things. Woodson still has blanket coverage on tight ends. A new name popping up as having a good day was Wide Receiver Seth Roberts. With three WR’s not practicing, reps for the reserves have increased and Seth is making the most of it.

Menelik Watson making waves

The offensive line continues to put in solid work. Howard and Watson continue to get their names mentioned by the coach and scribes on site. This in turn has led to all running backs having good runs during drills and team sessions. I’ve seen some national talk about this line and they are not expecting much. I don’t see it that way and I think this line is going to be a huge improvement from the last couple years. Looking forward to them continuing to mesh into that dominate unit.

I can’t remember reading so much positive things about a Raiders team, this early in Training Camp. I’d venture to say, since you know, our last winning season. The Raiders don’t have practice today, but will be back at it tomorrow. Coach Allen is hoping the day off will allow some injured players to get back on the practice field.