Photo by Tony Gonzales
Q: How did this all transpire? Are you surprised to be a Raider? Last week, was this something that you could see coming?
Tuck:"Last week, I absolutely did not see it coming. It wasn't necessarily on my radar at that point in time, but everything accelerated pretty quickly, and I'm excited. I really am. I like the direction that this team is talking about going in, and I just want to be a part of it. Obviously, everyone knows the history of the Raiders, and I just want to be a part of the group that brings it back."
Q: What was the appeal? Was it Reggie McKenzie and Dennis Allen?
Tuck:"I think the appeal was knowing what Reggie had done in the previous spots he has been at. He has a true, honest feeling about him. The appeal is young talent needing leadership and the feel is just the opportunity to start fresh. Obviously, everyone knows I love the New York Giants and I appreciate nine years of my career being there, but I just wanted a new, fresh start and I think Oakland is definitely a good place to be. Everyone knows the fan base is great out here. I am looking forward to it."
Q: What do still hope to accomplish in your career?
Tuck: "Winning more Super Bowls. Everyone talks about once you turn 30, it's all downhill. I don't believe in that. I don't look at myself in that regard. I feel like I have a lot of great football left in me. I think the efforts that I bring to this team off the field are going to be tremendous also as far as leadership and just how to stand out in the community and becoming integrated with Raider Nation. That's something I'm looking forward to doing."
Q: I was just curious; I know that (LaMarr) Woodley was also in town and also Jason Hatcher. Is it a hope that a couple of those guys can join you? Are you going to be a top Raiders recruiter trying to get more talent in here to help you out?
Tuck:"Absolutely. I already put my word in with both of those guys. Obviously they have decisions to make, but also we can get guys like that, that are used to winning and knows what it takes to win, just football players, that would help us rebuild this thing. So, yes, I will be a recruiter."
Q: How does your skill set fit in to what Dennis Allen wants to do on the defensive side of the ball with the Raiders?
Tuck:"I mesh well with it. I had some opportunity to look at some film while I was here and go over terminologies. Our scheme now is very similar to what we ran at the Giants. I think I'll fit in very well and hopefully build on the great year I had last year and continue to do so."
