Head Coach Jack Del Rio
The Oakland Raiders Mandatory Mini-Camp has officially come to a close, meaning the team won't reunite until late July in Napa, Calif. for Training Camp. Following the conclusion of the three-day session, Head Coach Jack Del Rio addressed the media to wrap up a productive week of practice. The Raiders are coming off their first playoff berth in 14 years, but are hungry for more.
Here are the quick hits from his media session:
Del Rio talked about the offensive line, and the competition at the right tackle position.
"Yeah, we feel like we have good guys there, capable guys there. We had a good offseason with the guys that were able to work there. When it's time to let them all compete then we'll work our way through it."
He discussed the addition of quarterback EJ Manuel, and what the veteran signal-caller has brought to the team so far.
"He's a good, young man. He has some abilities. He's been really good in the room. I think that room is strong right now, the quarterback room. Really healthy environment. I think he's come in and he and Connor [Cook] are battling for the backup spot. They've alternated days, who's working with the second group, who's with the third group. They've alternated all throughout the offseason. We'll continue that through training camp until we feel like someone's earned that designation."
Del Rio elaborated on the purpose of the team bonding trips.
"Well, what I'm seeking to do there is twofold really. One is we want to compete in everything we do, so I like any type of competition that we can create. We like to do that. Then two, just to get away from this environment. Have guys interact. You build that camaraderie. You have that time together aside from in here grinding in meetings and on the football field. I think that's an important aspect."
He also shared his thoughts on the current middle linebacker situation.
"It's gone well. Guys are very active, the guys that we have. It's a younger, inexperienced group, but there's a lot of athleticism in that group. We look forward to getting the pads on and seeing if they can continue the way they've developed during the spring, see if we can continue to develop them as we get the pads on."
Del Rio spoke about his relationship with Hall of Famer John Madden, and what it means to him.
"I have a ton of respect for Coach Madden as a coach and a man. To be able to have somebody like that that I can talk with, it's a great honor and something I'm very appreciative of."
