Tag: Oakland Raiders

Charles Woodson: Despite many accolades one regret was not winning Super Bowl with Raiders

Even with his long list of accomplishments there’s one thing Charles Woodson wishes he could’ve done: ‘winning a Super Bowl with the Raiders’

You won’t see another resume as impressive as Charles Woodson’s. That’s not opinion, it’s a fact. No other man on earth has checked all these boxes:

Heisman Trophy
College Football National Championship
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
NFL Defensive Player of the Year
Super Bowl ring
Pro Football Hall of Fame

That means he’s won at every level, both on a team level as well as every personal award possible.

But even with all that, there was one thing that eluded Woodson in his career.

“Winning a Super Bowl with the Raiders,” Woodson said without hesitation. “I feel like that’s the one thing that got away from me, man. To be able to win a Super Bowl in the Silver & Black, man, if I could’ve accomplished that, on top of all the other things – and don’t get me wrong I’m not complaining – but, man, to have won it with the team that drafted me…Getting there was great, but, man, if we could’ve closed that deal, I would’ve definitely said ‘You know what, I did it all.”

Woodson got close to helping the Raiders to a Super Bowl win a few times. First in 2000 when the Raiders made it to the AFC Championship game, but lost to the Ravens.

Then the following year when Woodson forced the would-be game-ending fumble on Tom Brady only to have it overturned by the improper implementation of the now defunct Tuck Rule.

Then finally in 2002 when the Raiders made it to the Super Bowl only to face their old coach Jon Gruden.

The Raiders fell off after that and a few years later, Woodson would be allowed to leave in free agency to sign with the Packers. That’s where he would eventually get his ring in 2010.

Getting his ring came a year after Woodson won Defensive Player of the Year. And a year later, at the age of 36, Woodson was asked to switch to safety, which for many defensive backs, signaled the end of his career.

But not for Woodson. He had unfinished business.

Woodson returned to the Raiders at the age of 37 and played three more seasons before finally stepping away from the game.

Right to the end, even with nothing left to prove, Woodson was not going to go out with a whimper.

“Making it through that season was a feat in its own self,” Woodson said of his final NFL season. “In that first game I dislocated my shoulder, and then the third game of the season, playing against the Browns, I suffered a grade two MCL sprain and, man, every day from that game forward… And then even against the Bears, I suffered a left shoulder sprain, and, aw man, it was hard each and every game to get myself in position to practice, just the little bit that I could practice to go into the game and still have to play at a high level and to go through all that and to actually in my 18th year, make a Pro Bowl, having gone through all that, I feel like that was a career all wrapped up into that 16-game schedule.”

“I just kept telling myself… I’m not going to spend my last season on the sideline.”

Though all that, Woodson would make his ninth Pro Bowl at the age 39 and at a second position before riding off into the sunset.

He obviously never got to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in Silver & Black. But he gave everything he had to the team that drafted him. From the moment he set foot on an NFL to the day he left it for the last time.

He may have took a trip to Green Bay for a time to get his ring, but he has never really left the Raiders.

Kyle Long nearly quit Bears at halftime vs. Raiders following blowup with Matt Nagy in 2019

Kyle Long shares new details about his Bears exit in 2019 after their game against the Raiders that included a verbal spat with Matt Nagy.

It’s been about three and a half years since Kyle Long last played for the Chicago Bears but he’s sharing interesting details about his departure from the team and it wasn’t pretty.

The former offensive lineman spent seven years with the Bears before he was unceremoniously placed on injured reserve following a Week 5 loss to the Las Vegas/Oakland Raiders during the 2019 season and never played a down for the navy and orange again.

Long hinted at what had gone down near the end of the year in some tweets and later revealed the Bears placed him on injured reserve due to his ineffectiveness on the field thanks to wear and tear on his body after so many years.

The decision wasn’t exactly Long’s choice, but he understood the nature of the business after struggling in that game against the Raiders. Now years later, Long shared exactly what went down that led to his departure and it’s a lot uglier than initially thought.

Speaking during a live broadcast on the Green Light Podcast, hosted by his brother Chris, Long revealed he nearly quit the team at halftime of that game after head coach Matt Nagy chewed him and his teammates out.

We were playing the Raiders and we were getting our asses whooped and we were in [the locker room] at halftime. Our head coach Matt Nagy, God bless him, he looks at the o-line and says ‘you guys are playing like some gutless, quiet [expletive]’ and he’s staring me in the eyeballs.

I stood up in the middle of the halftime and I just walked out. I made it about 50 yards down the hallway, and you know how long those hallways are, and our security guard goes ‘Kyle, come on man. Not like this.’ I had to ride eight hours home in first class on the way home. Because I’m a starter, they got me up with the coach. I sat across the aisle from Matt Nagy and his wife for eight hours the whole way.

They told me ‘do not come back to the building.’

 

Nagy’s message may not have been appreciated, but the team did show more fight in the second half of that game after being chewed out. Down 17-0 at halftime, Chicago scored 21 points in the third quarter, but fell at the end of the game, losing 24-21. Since leaving the Bears, Long has taken shots at Nagy on multiple occasions. It became clear he wasn’t a fan of the former Bears head coach, but this revelation took that notion to a new level.

Long retired following the 2019 season for one year and came back in 2021 to play with the Kansas City Chiefs, then hung up his cleats for good in 2022. Even though it’s been years since he and Nagy have shared a locker room, he still has strong feelings about how he was let go from the Bears.

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Upcoming ‘The Perfect 10’ documentary features 3 Raiders greats to go from Heisman to Hall

Only 10 people have ever won a Heisman and gone onto the Hall of Fame. And 3 of them are Raiders greats. Set your DVRs Raider Nation.

“This is an amazing feat, man. Only ten guys have been able to accomplish this. More men have walked the moon than to have been able to accomplish what we’ve accomplished,” said Tim Brown in front of six other NFL legends to open the upcoming FOX documentary ‘The Perfect 10’.

Those seven legends all have something special in common. They’re being called ‘The Perfect 10’ because they make up the ten men in the world have hoisted both the Heisman Trophy and have a bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

‘The Perfect 10’ will premiere on FOX this Saturday, February 11 at 5 pm Pacific (8pm ET). And if you’re a Raiders fan, you will want to set your DVR.

No team is more well represented in this exclusive club than the Raiders.

Of the seven NFL legends in that room, three are Raiders greats.

The first to join the club was Marcus Allen. Then it was Tim Brown in 2015. And Charles Woodson completed the ten in 2021.

“To have this individual type of accomplishment and to have it be so few who have done it is really mind boggling, you know,” Woodson told Raiders Wire. “I was thinking earlier about the amount of kids who played little league football, high school football, college football, the few that make it to the NFL, and then to just carve that down to just ten guys that have done something like that with the history of the game, that is really quite amazing and hard to put it into words.”

Woodson said as a kid he had imagined himself winning the Heisman Trophy and winning championships (something he also did) but the Hall of Fame was not something he grew up imagining. And even the Heisman seemed out of reach once he switched to defense at Michigan.

“When I got to college and chose to play defense, that dream was pretty much…that was a wrap. Because defensive players don’t win that award,” Woodson said of his Heisman hopes. “So, for me to get to my junior year and to have the success we had as a team, to make the plays at the right time that I made as an individual player, when those things start to happen, that’s when it’s like ‘oh man’ and that dream that was kind of a fleeting thought in my mind was back. . . Then to be invited to the ceremony and ultimately have my name called, holy cow, that was an incredible moment.”

The four other NFL legends on hand for ‘The Perfect 10’ include Earl Campbell, Tony Dorsett, Barry Sanders, and Roger Staubach. The three not present are OJ Simpson, and Doak Walker (deceased), and Paul Hornung (deceased).

Irish in the NFL: Las Vegas Raiders Bring Back Te’Von Coney

the Raiders announced they would be bringing back former Notre Dame star Te’Von Coney on a reserve/futures contract

The Oakland Raiders officially became the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday as an incredible history officially came to an end with a new era for both the franchise and the NFL now set to begin.

Friday saw just slightly less significant news as the Raiders announced they would be bringing back former Notre Dame star Te’Von Coney on a reserve/futures contract.

Coney didn’t make the Raiders roster in 2019 but was a part their practice squad after being signed as an un-drafted free agent last spring.

Coney had a monstrous final two seasons at Notre Dame recording 239 tackles, 21 which were for loss between 2017 and 2018, two years the Fighting Irish went a combined 22-4.

Remembering Franco Harris and the Immaculate Reception in all its brilliance

Franco Harris’ death comes two days before the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception

Franco Harris died on Wednesday, two days before the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception.”

The Pittsburgh Steelers planned on honoring Harris on Saturday when they play the Las Vegas Raiders by retiring the running back’s No. 32.

On Dec. 23, 1972, the Oakland Raiders and Steelers met in a playoff game.

Oakland led 7-6 by virtue of a 30-yard touchdown run by quarterback Ken Stabler. It was the longest run of Stabler’s NFL career, whether in the regular season or postseason.

The Steelers were down to their last play, a fourth-and 10 from their 40, when the incredible occurred.

Harris, after initially blocking on the play, had run downfield in case Terry Bradshaw needed another eligible receiver. After Bradshaw threw the pass towards John Fuqua, Harris recounted the advice of his college football coach Joe Paterno, who always told his players “Go to the ball.”

Harris, in the vicinity of the deflected pass, scooped up the sailing ball just before it hit the ground. Harris ran past Raiders linebacker Gerald Irons, while linebacker Phil Villapiano, who had been covering Harris, was blocked by Steelers tight end John McMakin. Harris used a stiff arm to ward off Raiders defensive back Jimmy Warren, and went in for a touchdown.

It took 15 minutes for the officials to rule the play a touchdown. In 1972, and for many years prior, an offensive player could not touch or catch a football if the previous person to touch it was a fellow offensive player.

That rule has changed over the course of time.

Roy Gerela kicked the extra point and the Steelers had an unforgettable 13-7 playoff victory.

For years, it was debated whether the Steelers’ Fuqua or the Raiders’ Jack Tatum had created the deflection.

The Immaculate Reception was called the greatest play in NFL history during the league’s 100th season.

Franco Harris: Hall of Fame running back passes away at 72

Harris’ final season in 1984 was spent as a member of the Seattle Seahawks.

On Wednesday morning the NFL world awoke to the heartbreaking news that Hall of Fame running back Franco Harris passed away at the age of 72. Harris was one the most dominant running backs of the 1970’s, and became one of the faces of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ dynasty.

Although 11 of his 12 years in the NFL were with the Steelers, Harris’ final season in 1984 was spent as a member of the Seattle Seahawks.

Harris won four Super Bowls during the 70’s, and even took home MVP honors in Super Bowl IX. But what he will be remembered for is his role in the legendary Immaculate Reception.

The Immaculate Reception is easily the most iconic – and controversial – play in NFL history. Trailing the Oakland Raiders by a score of 7-6 with only 0:22 seconds left to play, the Steelers were facing 4th-and-10 at their own 40 yard line. Quarterback Terry Bradshaw, scrambling to avoid the sack, heaved the ball to Oakland’s 35 yard line, targeting Steelers running back John “Frenchy” Fuqua. What happened next is where history was made.

Fuqua was met immediately by Raiders safety Jack Tatum just as the ball got there. As the two players collided, the ball was bounced back and landed in the waiting arms of Franco Harris who happened to be in the right place at the right time. Harris then ran the ball for a touchdown to give the Steelers a 13-7 win.

What makes it so controversial is the question of who the ball actually touched first. In 1972, the rules at the time made it illegal for two offensive players to touch the football in succession. If the ball bounced off Raiders safety Jack Tatum, the play would have been fine. But if it hit Fuqua, the play should have been blown dead and ruled an incomplete pass. The film has been studied to an almost Zapruder-esque level, but 50 years later, it’s still just as unclear as ever.

Whatever the truth may be, the only thing that matters is it’s place in NFL history. The mystery and speculation surrounding the Immaculate Reception is part of what makes it so legendary.

The timing of death never great, but what will make hearts in the Steel City heavier is the fact the Steelers are going to be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Immaculate Reception. While Harris will unfortunately be unable to be apart of the festivities, he will be there in spirit. Fans across the country know Harris will live on in memory as long as football is played.

The story of the NFL cannot be told without the Immaculate Reception… or Franco Harris.

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Legendary Raiders punter Ray Guy dies at 72

Raiders legendary punter Ray Guy dies at 72

Pro Football Hall of Fame punter Ray Guy died at the age of 72.

Guy was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. He averaged 42.4 yards over his career from 1973 to 1986.

He was the first punter drafted in the first round when chosen by the Raiders in the 1973 NFL draft.

Broncos vs. Raiders series history: Denver looks to make up ground

The Raiders lead the all-time series against the Broncos 69-54-2, and they’ve won four-straight against Denver.

The Denver Broncos will take their third-ever trip to Las Vegas to play the Raiders in Week 4. Before they touch down in Sin City later this week, Broncos Wire examines the history between these two franchises.

The Raiders own a 69-54-2 record against the Broncos since the teams first began playing each other in their AFL days. Las Vegas has had success against Denver in each of the three locations they have played in (Los Angeles, Oakland and Las Vegas).

The Broncos also should have a personal stake in this upcoming game, as it is their first rivalry game with Josh McDaniels on the other sideline as head coach. McDaniels was Denver’s head coach from 2009-2010, drafting quarterback Tim Tebow and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas during his time in Mile High. McDaniels’ career as Broncos head coach ended in disgrace with a cheating scandal dubbed “McSpyGate” during the 2010 season.

Denver last won against Las Vegas in 2019, handing the Raiders their final loss as the Oakland Raiders, on a last-second pass from quarterback Drew Lock to receiver KJ Hamler. Since then, the Broncos have only come within three points once, during the 2020 season.

Can the Broncos pull into sole possession of the AFC West Sunday with a win?

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How did former Clemson players perform in NFL Week 1?

With Week 1 of the NFL season in the books, The Clemson Insider took a look at what former Clemson Tigers did in the past weekend’s action. Below is a recap of the most notable stats from current Tigers in the NFL. Grady Jarrett The Atlanta Falcons …

With Week 1 of the NFL season in the books, The Clemson Insider took a look at what former Clemson Tigers did in the past weekend’s action. Below is a recap of the most notable stats from current Tigers in the NFL.

Grady Jarrett

The Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle posted five tackles, 1.5 sacks and two quarterback hits in a 27-26 loss to the New Orleans Saints.

A.J. Terrell

In a 27-26 loss to the Saints, Terrell gave up four receptions on five targets, while recording five solo tackles. The Atlanta Falcons cornerback received a Pro Football Focus grade of 53.4 overall.

Tee Higgins

The former WRU member recorded two receptions for 27 yards in the Cincinnati Bengals’ 23-20 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He left the game in the second quarter and was ruled out for a concussion.

Mike Williams

Williams had just two catches for 10 yards in the Chargers’ 24-19 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Hunter Renfrow

Renfrow recorded three recpetions for 21 yards in a 24-19 loss to Los Angeles.

Ray Ray McCloud III

McCloud recorded a catch for 20 yards in the 49ers’ 19-10 loss in Chicago. He averaged 21 yards on kick returns and 11.5 yards on punt returns in the loss against the Bears.

Amari Rodgers

Rogers handled kick and punt returns for the Packers, posting returns of 12 and 14 yards, respectively, in Green Bay’s 23-7 loss against the Minnesota Vikings.

Trevor Lawrence

In the first game of Lawrence’s second full season as a starter, he completed 24-of-42 passes for 275 yards with a touchdown and an interception in a 28-22 loss against the Washington Commanders.

Travis Etienne

In his first career NFL regular season game, the former Clemson running back had 47 rushing yards on four carries, averaging 11.8 yards per carry. Etienne also caught two passes for 18 yards in the loss.

Isaiah Simmons

Simmons recorded just three solo tackles and received a PFF grade of 39.3 overall for his efforts in the Cardinals’ 44-21 loss against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jayron Kearse

Kearse recorded seven tackles in Dallas’ 19-3 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday Night Football. However, he was forced to leave what is now known to be an MCL. The Cowboys believe that the former Clemson standout will miss a few weeks.

Photo by Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Dear Old Clemson is excited to announce limited edition signed cards from the freshmen football players are now in our online store.  There are only 100 of each signed.

Now there is a new way you can support Clemson student-athletes. Purchase collectibles from Dear Old Clemson and the proceeds with go to support Clemson student-athletes. Visit Dear Old Clemson to find out how you can help!

Ravens officially make four roster moves on Wednesday

The Baltimore Ravens on Monday announced they signed veteran cornerback T.J. Carrie to their practice squad.

The Baltimore Ravens lost cornerback Kyle Fuller for the season during their Week 1 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh confirmed on Monday that Fuller suffered a torn ACL, effectively ending his season. However, the team has already made a move to add more depth at the cornerback position.

The Ravens on Wednesday announced that they signed veteran cornerback T.J. Carrie to the practice squad. Carrie was drafted by the then-Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL Draft, where he spent his first four professional seasons. Carrie would then play two seasons with the Cleveland Browns and another two years with the Indianapolis Colts.

A couple hours after the transaction was announced, Harbaugh spoke with the media. Harbaugh addressed the signing of Carrie and expressed excitement about the veteran joining the squad.

“Carrie will be on the practice squad. Heck of a corner. Been around. Played against him many times so we’re pleased to have him with us.”

During his first six seasons, Carrie has 386 combined tackles, nine fumble recoveries, six forced fumbles, and seven interceptions with one of them being returned for a touchdown in 118 games played. Carrie can be a great veteran addition to the 53-man roster should his services be needed.

In other roster moves, Harbaugh announced that the team signed linebacker Steven Means onto the 53-man roster after starting the season on the practice squad. Offensive tackle Ja’Wuan James and Fuller were both placed on season-ending injured reserve.