Oakland Raider Analysis: Do the Oakland Raiders still have holes to fill on offense?

August 12, 2:20 AMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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JaMarcus Russell drops back to pass against the 49ers Photo by Patrick A. Patterson/TFDSsports.com

The Napa portion of training camp is nearing its end, with the Raiders to be back in Alameda soon. They are preparing for their second preseason game, coming off of a big win in their opener. Things would seem to be going well for the Raiders. The question at this point in the preseason, however, is which if any holes to the Raiders still have to fill?

Quarterbacks:

The Raiders are set in this position, with JaMarcus Russell the starter. Andrew Walter has had a very good camp, and looks to be able to fill in should an emergency arise.

Running Backs:

This has to be the strongest position on the Oakland Raiders' roster. The Raiders have three top teir half backs in Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, and Michael Bush. They also have the fullback tandem of Oren O'Neal and Justin Griffith who make a very good one two punch. If the Raiders choose to keep four half backs they have Adimchinobi Echemandu and Lous Rankin to chose from. Rankin is having a very good camp and Echemandu spent time with the Raiders last season.

Wide Receivers:

This is a position that has been looking a bit troubled in training camp. Drew Carter, Todd Watkins, and Ronald Curry all started off strong, but have been falling off or hurt in the case of Curry. Javon Walker thus far has looked rather disappointing. Neither Chaz Schilens nor Arman Shields seem to be pushing to make a splash. Part of the problem could be the stellar coverage of the Raiders' corners, but it would seem that someone at this position would try to make a big push. This position could potentially use some more bodies to come in and compete.

Tight Ends:

Here the Raiders have Zach Miller, who was a sensation his rookie year and is only going to get better. Behind him, they have John Madsen who has shown flashes of big play catching ability. Behind them is Tony Stewart (Not the Nascar driver, but another one) and a veritable who's who of who's THAT? Fred Wakefield had been a tight end, but has been moved around to try other positions.

Offensive line:

Tackles- Kwame Harris and Cornell Green are the starters as of now. Mario Henderson has not developed as the Raiders have hoped and Mark Wilson is out. Paul McQuistan, who was probably the best Raider tackle last season has been backing up Gallery at left guard. The Raider could definitely use some additional depth and compeition in this position. They did well in the running game, as the Raiders were able to move the ball on the ground against the 49ers, but big questions remain in pass protection.

Guards- Robert Gallery and Cooper Carlisle have been major factors in the resurgence of the Raiders rushing attack. Paul McQuistan would be an able backup to either of them, but beyond him there is only Brandon Rodd on the roster. The Raiders definitely could use some additional depth here. Having more competition at a position only helps the players get better.

Center- Jake Grove has been surprising people in camp, and looks to have shed the bust label that was accumulating around him by wresting the starting position away from free agent acquisition John Wade. Jesse Boone and Chris Morris are both in the mix, likely as reserve guards.

Overall, the highest priority for the offense is more competition at wide receiver and the offensive line. Granted, cut-down days are coming, but shaking things up could make a big difference in the team. Rob Calonge over at Thoughts from the Dark Side asked if the Raiders have enough talent? On offense, it appears that there is enough talent at the top, but if there is an injury it could get ugly fast.