Head Coach Jack Del Rio
Following the first day of Oakland Raiders 2016 Minicamp, Head Coach Jack Del Rio fielded questions from reporters at the team's Alameda, Calif., facility.
Here are the highlights from his time behind the microphone.
Del Rio was impressed with today's production and how the players responded to different game-like situations.
"Good competition across the board, and I thought we got a lot of real productive work here. [We are] putting them in different situations here, as you saw at the end, four-minute, two-minute. Those situations that you come in are so much a part of our league and being able to play well in those situations at the end, we'll get a lot of work here in this camp and then into our training camp as well."
He also shared his thoughts on defensive end Mario Edwards Jr.'s return to practice.
"Looks like he's been working hard. We know that he's been working hard with [head strength and conditioning coach] Joe [Gomes] and doing the things he can do and he was able to join us today. It's good to have him back."
Del Rio has been pleased with the speed his team has been playing with as of late.
"I think when you look at our team right now, what I'm liking is how fast we're playing. I feel like we've added team speed but we're playing fast. We're playing with more confidence and that's critical. So, something we're looking to develop, to play faster and faster, play smart and under control, be tough. But, that speed is really showing up."
He also gave his early impressions of undrafted rookie free agent linebacker/defensive end James Cowser.
"He's just come in here and worked really hard. He's been impressive in the fact that he's a good learner, he understands what we're asking of him, what we want him to do, what we want him to be able to do, whether it's special teams or defense as his role. He's very conscientious. He's done a nice job so far impressing us with the way he has attacked his work."
Del Rio is confident in the group of offensive lineman the team has assembled.
"Really feel like we should be able to surge with that group of men up front. They kind of lead the way, create some running room, create a nice pocket for Derek [Carr]. Those are things we're looking to do. It all starts with our guys up front. I feel like we have a good group."
