The Oakland Raiders had four rookies in tow for the start of training camp. Besides Taiwan Jones and Denarious Moore, which were already reported, the Raiders also came to terms with third round cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke and seventh round wide receiver David Ausberry.
Ausberry is a guy who is not likely to make the team. He is a seventh round pick and the Raiders already have a large number of receivers, including fifth round pick Denarius Moore. Ausberry will likely fight to earn a spot on the practice squad.
Signing DeMacus Van Dyke (aka DVD, lets get the nickname started) in time for training camp is actually a pretty big deal. With the imminent departure of star cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, the Raiders will be struggling to fill the void he will leave. Stanford Routt already has one of the starting corner positions locked down, but it is up in the air as to who will play opposite him. The Raiders have a lot of yound talent at cornerback, but no one who is established.
Considering the Raiders chose DVD with their second pick in the 2011 NFL draft, they obviously think he is a guy that should make the team, and hopefully make an impact early in his career. Getting him into camp on time was crucial.
Keep checking back for more updates as the insanity of the post lockout world continues. And for a more in depth look at the Raiders, be sure to check out Silver and Black Pride.