Projecting the Oakland Raiders first roster cuts

Expect Terdell Sands days as a Raider to be numbered.
(Photo by Patrick A. Patterson)

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In exactly one week, on September first, the Oakland Raiders have to trim their roster from the current 80 down to 75. This comes merely two days after their preseason matchup with the New Orleans Saints.

There are certain players who are pushing their way towards a roster spot, whilst others seem to be just taking up space. With only five players being let go, this does not have the high drama that will be transpiring across the league on September fifth when each team will be letting go of 22 players. However, for the five guys who won't be returning to team on September second their dream of playing in the NFL will be crashing down before their eyes.

Here is a look at the projections for the "fab five" who will be filing their unemployment claims on September second:

Samie Parker-Wide receiver: Parker was brought in during minicamp for a tryout. At the time Coach Cable said that he gave them "more legs for that position." His complete lack of game repetitions shows that his shot at making the final 53 is nil, and as a veteran he is not a candidate for the practice squad. They will likely let him go at this cut down so he can possibly try to catch on elsewhere.

Terdell Sands-Defensive tackle: The release of Terdell Sands has been a prayer on the lips of the Raider Nation for the past couple seasons. With Sands being completely out played by undrafted free agent Desmond Bryant, this may well be the time they get their wish. Through the first two preseason games, Sands has been a complete non-factor.

Jason Horton-Defensive back: Horton was a flag magnet against the Dallas Cowboys, and a non-factor against the 49ers. The Raiders have 14 defensive backs on their roster, so at least one will be leaving.

James Marten-Tackle: James Martin has been called for too many penalties, and has been ineffective as a blocker when not flagged. There are eight tackles competing for what is likely four roster spots, so someone has got to go, and Marten seems like the logical choice.

Todd Watkins-Wide receiver: Watkins was the camp sensation during the 2008 preseason, but barely made the field during the season, despite the well publicized woes of the receiving corps as a whole. He looked good in the early offseason camps, but his two catches are not going to get him noticed in a crowded field of receivers. He is not eligible for the practice squad.

NOTES:

The Oakland Raiders released defensive back Ricky Manning, Jr and replaced him with linebacker Napoleon Harris. Harris was originally a first round pick by the Raiders in the 2002 draft and was sent to the Vikings as part of the Randy Moss deal. This move is not a surprise with the injuries to Kirk Morrison and Isaiah Ekejiuba.

• For more info: Check out  RaiderNews.com for the latest on the Oakland Raiders.

You can also find Patrick Patterson on Thoughts from the Dark Side.

Thank you to Cal Bears Examiner, Rob Calonge, for his excellent team coverage of Training Camp.