At something called the Alumni Gala, Raiders owner Mark Davis announced that Oakland GM Reggie McKenzie agreed to a four year extension. Raider alumni Ashley Lelie, Cooper Carlisle, Javon Walker and other Denver Broncos retreads likely lauded the move as something Al Davis, especially in his later years, would have championed.
"During draft time, [Mark Davis] came to me and wanted to keep me on board."
McKenzie was most likely as shocked as the rest of the NFL to hear this news. In his four years at the helm of the Raiders, their levels of success have made a statement. Oakland's solid 18-46 record and failing to sniff the playoffs within his tenure speak volumes about the atmosphere of winning he's fostered. McKenzie's .391 winning percentage is a testament to the hard work and dedication it takes to put a product like the Oakland Raiders out on the baseball diamond year after year.
Free agent attitudes about the silver and black have changed. Gone are the days when talent would pass them over for franchises that weren't 'doomed' or 'dysfunctional.' Now, talent, like Aldon Smith, are lining up to come get suspended in Oakland. Despite broadcasting an embarrassing drug use video, the organization and McKenzie are standing proudly behind Smith. Free agents like Smith clearly exhibit the intelligence and self control that the Raiders look for when supplementing their roster.
"It's a great feeling. When you get a pat on the back and people recognize the job that you're doing, the good work, no matter what it's a sense of accomplishment."
In 2015, the Raiders extended their streak of non-winning seasons to 13 after an impressive 7-9 finish.
"Everybody wants to point fingers at me, but I'm only as strong as my staff. I think I got a really good staff."
When a franchise reaches this level of notoriety, there's plenty of credit to go around. Sure, McKenzie was almost fired two years ago, but last year's 7-win season was indeed more impressive than the 3-win season in 2014 that nearly got Reggie clipped. McKenzie's extension has delighted fans with the prospect of a winning season sometime before 2020. Baby steps.
2020 may be too lofty a goal for Reggie and the gang, but for now, averaging just over 4 wins per season should keep them in the conversation as a top ten team come draft time for years to come. It's clear why ownership has shackled themselves to this front office powerhouse. Commitment to excellence? Well, no... But in lieu of wins, they got a guy who looks somewhat okay in black stretch-pants.
HORSE TRACKS
Okay, enough silliness. On to training camp news!
Here's the highlights of Sunday's action according to the Broncos' Andrew Mason. Broncos Training Camp Quick Hits: Day 4 | Denver Broncos
In case you haven't read MHR's coverage of Sunday's practice, here it is. Denver Broncos Training Camp Day 4 news and notes | Mile High Report
Phil Taylor's 2016 season with the Denver Broncos came to an end on Sunday when he was placed on injured reserve. Broncos place NT Phil Taylor on injured reserve; sign DE Billy Winn | Denver Broncos
OL Sam Brenner is in the concussion program following an injury Sunday. Sam Brenner under evaluation for concussion after Day 4 injury | Denver Broncos
The Broncos may not know who the quarterback is going to this season, but one thing is for sure... There's a ton of talent at wide receiver. Denver Broncos have a wealth of options at wide receiver | Football | heraldextra.com
It's always interesting to see what a division rival has to say about the Broncos. This is a fun read from MHR's sister-site, Bolts from the Blue. Poor Chargers fans. Denver Broncos offseason review and 2016 preview - Bolts From The Blue
Peyton Manning stopped by Saints camp in not-so-casual attire on Sunday. What could be more comfortable in 90+ degree heat? Former Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning visits Saints Camp on Sunday | SunHerald
Clady is still healthy. I guess you could say the Jets trade is already paying dividends? Jets' Ryan Clady thinks he 'definitely can' return to All-Pro level | NJ.com
Former Panther Josh Norman is turning heads in Washington for all the wrong reasons. WATCH: DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon torch Josh Norman at Redskins practice - CBSSports.com
It's could be a Gronk-sized contract! He'd be wise to get it done before Jimmy Garoppolo affects his market value. Report: Patriots and Rob Gronkowski talking about contract | ProFootballTalk
The Super Bowl 50 MVP that almost was is in the concussion protocol. Panthers' Kony Ealy in NFL's concussion protocol - NFL.com
Lots of Panthers news today. Kelvin Benjamin is back with gusto for Carolina. Benjamin quickly re-establishing spot as Panthers No. 1 WR (Jul 31, 2016) | FOX Sports
Antonio Brown is suddenly aware of how little he earns. Antonio Brown wants Steelers to 'take care of him' - NFL.com
Remember when Colin Kaepernick was likely to come to Denver during the offseason? What a difference five months make. Colin Kaepernick shows 49ers something new - Mercury News
For a moment, OBJ went down on Sunday and the NFL world's heart skipped a beat. OBJ says he’s A-OK after practice collision | ProFootballTalk
What do you mean he's missing? Buried in all the NFL news of training camp is something that's somewhat alarming. Rams worried about troubled RB missing from camp | FOX Sports