The Raiders started practicing in pads, started taking the lessons to heart, and kicked off training camp in earnest in California, ready to shrug off the previous seasons' decay and dust.

For the Raiders, new blood mixed with veterans, looking for a future with the Silver and Black. For others, the hope of playing for a new team gives their careers a new future and a new direction.

Both groups look at this time, as all fans do, with hope and optimism...every tackle, every pass, and every barked order is another chance to do something right.

Some players started out their chances very well. Rolando McClain, simply put, has been as impressive as advertised in college. Alabama did this boy proud. Darrius Heywa...

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