Head Coach Jack Del Rio
The Oakland Raiders have completed their three game home stand, and will depart for their two- week road stint later this week. The first team standing in their way is the Buffalo Bills, who have one of the best running backs in the league with LeSean McCoy. Not only is "Shady" one of the premier backs in the league, but Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor poses a challenge due to his mobility outside the pocket. Prior to practice Wednesday, Head Coach Jack Del Rio met with the media to discuss the Bills versatile group.
Here are the quick hits from his media session:
After playing the Bills in 2016, Del Rio talked about the changes they've made, and who stands out on their roster.
"There are a lot of similar players. I think they turned over maybe 25-plus. You still see 'Shady' [LeSean McCoy]. You still see Kyle Williams. There are a few guys that grab your attention that are still there. They've done solid job."
He commented on defensive end Khalil Mack returning to his old college stomping grounds, as well as his positive characteristics.
"I think Khalil Mack, obviously I was asked this week with him going back to Buffalo. He's a special guy. He's supremely talented. Works so hard every day. Humility stands out to me because there aren't a lot of guys that are as talented as he is that walk around that have that sense of humility. I appreciate that about him. I think he's a great teammate and a great young man."
Del Rio spoke about wide receiver Amari Cooper's performance Thursday, and how it was good to see him get back on track.
"I think he stayed ready to go. I've been watching him for a long time, too. He's a really good player. To me, he got back to being himself. I thought we did a good job of getting him incorporated, which I'd like to see continue."
The Raiders Head Coach had some high praise for second-year tackle Vadal Alexander
"We're 3-0 with him starting. That's all I know. He's done a great job. He was called on twice last year to go in. Vadal is ready to roll. He's a proud guy. He went in and gave us some quality snaps the other night."
Del Rio complimented Bills playmakers Tyrod Taylor and LeSean McCoy on their athletic ability. "They're gifted athletes. They've got speed and elusiveness that not a lot of people have. One of them is the quarterback and has the ball in his hands every snap, and the other guy is running back and they get it to him a lot of different ways. Screens, draws, power game, tosses, they do every way you can they're getting him the ball. He's one of the more talented backs in the league. Gone against him in the past. He's a very special player. I have a lot of respect for him."
