Art Shell- a different approach- names two rookies as starters allready

[faba]

Fresh start: Raiders' Shell names two rookies starters

Associated Press

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- Before the Oakland Raiders even arrive at their first training camp in Art Shell's second stint as coach, it's clear that few jobs are safe.

Shell has already penciled in two rookies as starters -- second-round pick Thomas Howard at outside linebacker and third-round selection Paul McQuistan at right guard. First-round pick Michael Huff is also in the mix at safety.

The changes are necessary after the team posted its third straight losing season for the first time in owner Al Davis' 43-year tenure.

"I want the best football players out there," Shell said. "In this league you can play with young guys if the guy has talent. They're going to make some mistakes, but you can live with them if they make them aggressively."

Shell also coached the Raiders from 1989-1994, going 54-38 during the regular season while leading the team to the AFC championship game following the 1990 season. The team has had only three winning seasons since Shell was fired -- one less than he had in five full seasons as coach.

"These guys are tired of losing and want to be part of a winning program," Shell said. "The work ethic this offseason shows they are on board and want to win. That's what they are here for."

[johnny green balls]

so begins what is certain to be a disasterous comeback by shell.

[4HCrew]

This guy has no choice, there is a clear lack of talent and desire on this roster so he has to do something. They will be a tough team and no longer a push over. Not saying they are going to win 9 games but they will at least be respectful.

[PeterNorth09]

This guy has no choice, there is a clear lack of talent and desire on this roster so he has to do something. They will be a tough team and no longer a push over. Not saying they are going to win 9 games but they will at least be respectful.

I agree, there is nothing wrong with being honest letting the rooks know they are going to start. If anything it will make them more focused knowing they will spend their rookie year fighting on the field instead of standing on the sideline pretending to learn. The Raiders should win 6-8 games which, while not good enough to get in the playoffs, is still an imrpovement over last year.