Silver and Black Report

Darrell Strong (45) — One of a few tight ends looking to round out a slim unit

By Victor Cotto, S&B Report Staff Columnist

There is no denying that Zach Miller is atop the depth chart and will be a key cog in the Oakland Raiders’ offense this season after his 44 grabs, 444 yards and three touchdowns during his rookie campaign. His rapport with JaMarcus Russell was showcased in the regular season finale, as the draft mates hooked up for 8 receptions for 84 yards against the San Diego Chargers. But who will round out that unit and what will Lane Kiffin look for when selecting which tight ends join Miller on that squad?

The long shots are rookies Chris Wagner and Darrell Strong. Wagner was not invited to the combine in February, but left an impression on various clubs during private workouts, which ultimately led to his arrival in Oakland. Prior to signing in April, Wagner felt he could be tabbed as a selection during draft proceedings stating, “I think I have a chance to be a second-day guy, to get picked somewhere in the middle to later rounds, but you never know until your name is called.”

Now, he has a chance to disprove his doubters from draft weekend.

At 6’6″ and 260 pounds, Wagner’s pass catching abilities are not in question. And his position coach in college Shannon Moore noted, “Chris has huge upside; he’s big, fast and athletic. He has great catching skills and really came on towards the end of the season in the running game.”

But his blocking skills are what will have to set him apart from the others on the roster if he has any shot of making the team.

Surely the Raiders are looking to add as many weapons as possible to aide Russell’s development. But with Miller firmly entrenched as a starter and the need for an imposing blocker at tight end, both Wagner and Strong will have to show they can outmuscle veterans Fred Wakefield and Tony Stewart.

Strong is also a tight end who is in the ‘gifted’ spectrum and known for his athleticism. Paired with the presence of John Madsen, that just leaves Oakland with too many similar options to choose from.

And with two possible new starters at tackle, the importance of keeping their pricey quarterback upright and maintaining the continuity of the ground game from last season, it’s essential that Oakland finds a tight or two that can provide support on the edge as well as get into the secondary to rack up yardage.

Zach Miller after one of his three scores during a solid rookie season

Miller held his own in his rookie season as a blocker, impressing his coaches first and foremost at that trait prior to gaining their confidence in the passing game. Who will do the same in 2008?

If neither long shot is able to do so, Wakefield or Stewart could sneak ahead and claim a spot that should not be overlooked.

Oakland could be in a tight situation if they cannot find an adequate blocker to to complement Miller’s abilities. And with many ‘big targets’ on this roster currently competing for a few spots, they better find a ‘big blocker’ to help a big concern of this offense.