Head Coach Jack Del Rio
The Oakland Raiders hit the field Tuesday to officially begin their Organized Team Activities [OTAs], and following his team's work on the field, Head Coach Jack Del Rio held a press conference.
Here are the highlights from his time at the podium.
Raiders Head Coach Jack Del Rio shared his initial thoughts on the Raiders' rookies.
"I would say that they've done a good job of coming in here and working hard, kind of finding their way. I think there are some great examples of how we do things from the veterans that now that we're integrating them, they can learn some of those lessons from some of the veteran players. Want to make sure they learn what the Raider way looks like so they can come out here and we can have good, healthy competition, but take care of each other and understand that we're preparing for a season."
**The recent success of other Bay Area sports teams provides inspiration for Del Rio and his squad.
**
"I think it's inspiring for sure. Like I said, I take great pride in having been from this area. Even when it wasn't good, Warriors had some lean years, whatever. Different sports teams have lean years, if you're a true fan, you're still there. But there's nothing like it when you get it going and we're all enjoying it. That's what's happening right now with the Warriors and the Sharks, and we'd love to join that."
The Silver and Black are a team brimming with confidence in Del Rio's second year at the helm.
"We're gaining in confidence because of the work we're putting in. I think that's where it starts. There are a lot of things being said. This time of year, talk is cheap. I don't really spend a whole lot of time worrying about what is said, but I do pay a lot of attention to what is being done and the work that's being put in, commitment level. To me, that's where my focus is. That's where I want our focus to be, on how we're driving each other, on how we're committed to being here and doing the things we can do."
Del Rio himself is feeling more at home in Year 2 also.
"Obviously, in Year 2 there is a core of leaders that understand how we do things and what we're looking for. There is a staff that's returning intact that understands how we want to do things. I think with that, that puts us significantly ahead of where we were last year at this time."
Newly-signed cornerback Sean Smith is making a positive impression thus far.
"Sean is doing a great job, working hard. He's a big man. We knew that when we signed him. We like his size, we like his competitiveness. He's going to be a terrific addition to our football team."
