It looks like the secondary should be much better this coming season.
One of the newest members of the Raiders defense is Safety
Gibril Wilson, who joins the Silver and Black after winning Super Bowl XLII. Wilson played an integral role for the Giants championship defense in 2007 and over his five year career, he has averaged more total tackles per game (6.9) than any other NFL safety.
Surrounding the aforementioned accolades is Wilson's reputation on and off the field. He is widely regarded as a strong team leader and often leads by example with his work ethic in practice and performance during games.
One should not be surprised to know that in only five days of training camp, the San Jose, Calif., native is already making an impact and drawing praise from his coaches.
"He has looked great. He is really showing a lot of leadership in the huddle and in the classroom," said Head Coach Lane Kiffin. "With S
Michael Huff being a shadow right next to him, he is paying off extremely well for us with his play, but also with his affect on the rest of the secondary."
The core of the Raiders secondary is comprised of a mix of fresh faces and veteran presence. CB
Nnamdi Asomugha returns to the Raiders for his sixth season and he is joined by Pro Bowl CB
DeAngelo Hall, who was acquired via trade this off-season. FS
Michael Huff is in his third year with the Raider defense and is currently lining up alongside the newly acquired Wilson.
According to Wilson, before the defense can succeed, the players need to grow accustomed to each other. "We all come from different systems but we all have to get to know each other," said Wilson.
"I have to know what Nnamdi is thinking at all times, I've got to know what page Huff and DeAngelo are on. It's just one of those things that we need to know where we all are and play off each other. Then it will be great," Wilson added.
Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has already noticed the impact of Wilson on the defense. "He's looked at the communication of the defense," said Ryan. "We've only been out here for five days but ultimately, you can tell from the practices that he has great communication and he is very smart."
Entering his fifth NFL Training Camp, Wilson still finds himself improving and honing his football skills. "Every day I am learning new things, especially being in a new environment," Wilson said. "My main motivation at camp is to get better everyday and challenge myself everyday. I've got to keep challenging myself."
All the skill in the world won't help players in a defensive unit succeed in the NFL unless they can rely on and trust their teammates. As a result, Wilson has focused a lot of his time on becoming closer with the guys who he will be playing with every Sunday. "I have to learn the style of each of these guys, we have no choice but to pick it up right away," Wilson said. 'We've got to keep each other motivated and make each other better."
So far, all indications show that Wilson will be able to achieve his goal.
"He cares about what he is doing and he cares about his job. I really feel his leadership is helping everybody. I feel like this group is going to be very special," noted Coach Ryan.