Silver Spotlight: John Madsen

By Victor Cotto • Jul 6th, 2008 • Category: Player Bios

John Madsen

JOHN MADSEN

TIGHT END
No: 85
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 240
Birth date: 05/09/1983
College: Utah
Acquired: Signed as an un-drafted free-agent in 2006

As a rookie in 2006, John Madsen was able to make a splash during a heated contest between bitter rivals. Against the San Diego Chargers, Madsen hauled in three passes for 69 yards and scored his first NFL touchdown. The Oakland Raiders lost that contest 21-14 partly due to a controversial call in the 4^th quarter, but Madsen was able to leave a good impression on Raider fans in a game he got his most extensive look of the season.

In his first 10 games that year, he caught only three passes for 43 yards and was used sparingly as Oakland went with the likes of Randall Williams and Courtney Anderson at tight end.

In 2007, the Raiders drafted Zach Miller, which forced Madsen into a back-up role. Last year, he recorded 8 receptions for 102 yards and one score. Madsen has started on 4 occasions for Oakland, contributing in 31-league games on offense and special teams.

During an interview with Raiderfans.net, Madsen stated, “As a wide receiver, running routes and catching the ball are my strong points. I don’t concentrate on that as much as run blocking.”

The Raiders in 2008 are looking for help at wide receiver and tight end, and with so many talents with similar attributes, how Madsen is able to evolve as a blocker could separate himself from the rest of the competition once training camp begins and when final cuts are made when the season approaches.