Oakland Raiders: Busy first weekend of camp as players settle in

Rookies Marquel Lee and Treyvon Hester getting first team reps

If the Oakland Raiders’ defense is to improve upon last year’s performance they will need production from the middle of the defense.  Both the interior defensive line and middle linebacker are positions in need of someone to step up and be a factor in 2017.

It’s possible the Raiders will be looking at two rookies to fill both of those glaring holes.

Treyvon Hester was selected in the seventh round (244th overall) of the 2017 draft out of the University of Toledo.  Hester was a productive pass rusher at the collegiate level, registering 11 sacks and 31.5 tackles for loss in four seasons.

He flashed during rookie mini camp, OTAs and mini camp enough to earn some reps with the ones.  That momentum has carried over into training camp as it was reported he was continuing to get first team work.  Hester could be a sleeper to push for a starting role.

After starting Day 1 working with the second team, it was only a matter of time before Marquel Lee worked his way into the starting lineup.  The middle linebacker position is arguably the weakest link on the roster.

It shouldn’t take much for Lee to win the job, his competition includes Cory James, Tyrell Adams, and Ben Heeney.

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Other notable news:

• E.J. Manuel looking sharp, seems to have the early lead for the backup quarterback job.
• Amari Cooper added weight and muscle in the offseason.  Has been impressive in the first two days.
• The Raiders will have their first padded practice Monday.