The Oakland Raiders took a big step forward in 2015. The only problem? It still didn't translate to tallies in the "W" column. Sure, the Raiders, under the guidance of new head coach Jack Del Rio and young franchise quarterback Derek Carr, took major strides as a group, managed to win seven games for the first time since a pair of back-to-back eight-win but still playoff-less seasons in 2010 and 2011.
But for Carr and the rest of the ascending Raiders crew, kicking off their offseason activities Monday, seven wins sounds like it won't be enough; the moral victory that comes with being on the cusp only a taste of what they hope is still to come.
Carr and the Raiders want to win and know that the next step in their development as a team is the most important one they'll take.
"7-9 felt good last year," Carr said. "That's not going to cut it this year."
Derek Carr: “7-9 felt good last year. That’s not going to cut it this year.” #Raiders pic.twitter.com/wgaDb289QS
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) April 18, 2016
Center Rodney Hudson, who joined the Raiders in free agency last offseason, sounded a similar tone.
"We're making strides," Hudson said. "Last year was all about buying in. This year we have to win close games."
Part of the reason a seven-win repeat won't "cut it" this year for Carr and Co. is the offseason additions made by Oakland General Manager Reggie McKenzie. Even with the influx of talent that will come with the 2016 NFL Draft still 10 days away, McKenzie has already done well to improve Oakland at a number of important positions.
Bruce Irvin is expected to combine with Khalil Mack to create a fearsome tandem at linebacker. Sean Smith adds a big, dynamic presence to the secondary. Reggie Nelson is a talented veteran safety who tied for the league lead in interceptions last year, and Kelechi Osemele and Donald Penn should ensure that Carr remains upright and the Raiders offense continues to roll along.
"Not a problem," Carr said, when asked what Osemele said when he thanked him for joining the black-and-silver. "You will have all day to throw."
That may sound like hyperbole, but if anyone can say something so seemingly boastful, so matter-of-factly, it's Osemele, who has consistently graded out as one of Pro Football Focus' best offensive lineman in the league over the past few seasons.
It's still early, both in terms of this season and in the careers of many of these young Raiders. And while there's no knowing what the 2016 NFL season will bring, let alone the next decade or so, at least one thing can be said with a fair amount of certainty - thanks to Carr, Mack, Latavius Murray, Amari Cooper, Mario Edwards, Jr. and a whole slew of other players, the future of Raiders football is bright.
