Damon Arnette showing why the Las Vegas Raiders took him in Round 1

Damon Arnette showing why the Las Vegas Raiders took him in Round 1

Familiarity with Press Coverage

Arnette’s familiarity with the type of press coverage that Paul Guenther coaches also no doubt played into the decision to select him that high. Players like Rashaan Melvin and Daryl Worley never seemed to be comfortable playing the style of press coverage required in the Raiders defense. Ohio State is one of the few colleges that teach the “soft shoe” press technique, so Arnette is ahead of fellow young players like Isaiah Johnson and Amik Robertston in regards to his learning curve and now simply has to go out there and compete.

That familiarity with the technique no doubt is a reason why Arnette is getting the first crack at the starting rotation to open camp.  He also is reportedly a quick study and has been doing his due diligence when it comes to learning the playbook.

“Mike Mayock did a great job” Lamarcus Joyner said recently in his press conference after practice regarding Damon Arnette, “You see it, the attention to detail, and the athleticism, and talent [he] has is very encouraging.”

That attention to detail will be required to get him ready for a season without the buffer of 4 preseason games to gradually ease him into NFL experience. Paul Guenther said he is making Arnette move all around and throwing him new challenges to simulate the pressure environment that will come on Sundays. Surely a good sign that Arnette already has his defensive coordinator’s confidence.

Proving himself to his teammates is the first step towards getting people to buy into where Arnette was selected in the draft. The next step will be to convince the fans he is worthy, and barring injury, Arnette looks like he should be the week 1 starter. Raiders fans will find out soon enough.