Jared Veldheer in his first minicamp with Oakland
Here are some visuals from the Oakland Raiders weekend minicamp and some insight on a few players that will either try to sneak atop the depth chart, are attempting to make the roster or make a name for themselves early in their NFL careers.
Jared Veldheer – Tackle
The 3rd round draft choice will be given every shot to earn a starting spot along the offensive line at the tackle spot. Is he very raw? Yes. But Veldheer could snatch up the vacant right tackle spot with strong showings throughout the summer and improvements on his fundamentals. He’s smart enough to work there, but confidence and exposure to the game’s speed against live opponents will go a long way in determining whether or not he can make an impact as a rookie. Oakland’s biggest concern after this weekend is his ability to sustain blocks when he is protecting the passer.
Jason Campbell – Quarterback
The passer got into a groove on Saturday at one point and looked every bit of the starter when he darted completions to his targets. Kyle Boller has shown some zip and per Tom Cable, the competition is open at signal caller. But if Campbell just shows what he can do and continues to absorb Hue Jackson’s playbook, it will be hard for the Raiders to bypass Campbell and start another player that may not be as proficient.
Mike Mitchell – Safety
Now a second year pro, the heavy hitting safety will try to show he can cover as well in order to get into more packages in 2010. Used as an attacking defender towards the end of last year, Mitchell has been working in coverage and taking on targets down the field this weekend. His toughness, aggressiveness and ethic are not in question. But his ability to work in space and make the right decisions when the secondary is spread out is.
Chane Moline – Fullback
With Oren O’Neal out of the picture, Luke Lawton’s status up in the air with a pending suspension once the season starts and no clear cut blocking fullback on the roster, Moline has a shot at snatching a roster spot as an un-drafted free agent. If he can show good hands, integrate himself in the passing game and play powerful in short yardage situations, Oakland will find a way to keep him in order to open up holes for their rushers and incorporate him as an option on offense.
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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist
The Oakland Raiders began trimming their roster in an effort to get to the required 75-player limit before Wednesday.
Here’s an early list of all of the un-drafted free agents that have signed with the Oakland Raiders.