ALAMEDA, Calif. -- It might be a tad hyperbolic and cliché to say that Jon Gruden, with Reggie McKenzie's blessing and help, is rebuilding the Oakland Raiders roster into a bunch of Gruden Grinders.
But one week into the NFL's new league year, it would not be wrong.
The Raiders have parted ways with big names, big salaries and even popular players in a purge of sorts while acquiring guys known not necessarily for their mellow mien, but for their on-field production being as steady as their locker room leadership.
As such here’s one reporter’s way-too-early take on what a starting lineup would look like nearly six months before the 2018 season kicks off .