Save in-season respites from NaVorro Bowman and Perry Riley Jr., the Raiders have long lacked stability at middle linebacker. Call it the curse of Rolando McClain if you will, but the Silver and Black haven’t been able to draft, develop or sign someone capable to taking the defensive reigns and holding them throughout the year.
New head coach Jon Gruden believes Derrick Johnson will buck the trend. The 35-year old signed with the Silver and Black after 13 years in Kansas City looking to extend an illustrious career.
Johnson has the football smarts to excel and maybe make up for some lost athleticism.