When the Las Vegas Raiders hired former Seattle Seahawks HC Pete Carroll, he and everyone else made it clear that this was not going to be a rebuild. John Spytek, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers assistant GM, made sure everyone knew it, too.
They were not coming here to continue losing, they were coming to make this franchise what it's supposed to be -- a competitive, respectable franchise. But, at the same time, you know this item isn't ready to win a Super Bowl, and probably won't be for some time. So, there is some development to be had, and some drafting for the future to be done.
Their first draft class as the Raiders' new regime was one filled with players who can help both right now and in the future after some development. But, one of their flashiest draft picks made it known very quickly that he isn't just a pick for the future, as most know, he will need some developing.
"I'm looking to contribute immediately," cornerback Darien Porter told reporters after being selected by the Raiders in Round 3. "Obviously, we'll have to work and earn that opportunity. But, obviously departing with two corners, it's exciting for me to be put in this position to have that instant contribution on the defensive side.
"But I think I can also add a lot to special teams as well. I've done a lot of special teams and have done some pretty remarkable things in that aspect. So, I'm looking to contribute in any possible way that I can."
The Raiders lost a few cornerbacks from last season, including Jack Jones. So, the room, before the draft and free agency, was a bit thin. I think the Raiders are also expecting him to come in and contribute right away. However, they know it won't be easy for him by any means.
Yes, he has all of the physical attributes that you could want or need in a cornerback, and some; however, he still has to refine some of the technical things that come with being a cornerback. If he didn't have to, he would have been the No. 1 overall pick, because let's face it, there aren't many cornerbacks who are 6'4" like he is.
But, the Raiders are going to desperately need some big-time snaps from him this year. And, there's no reason to believe he can't provide them. Who knows, he could even win a starting position through training camp.
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