The Oakland Raiders are having a pretty good off-season so far, especially when compared to where they were a year ago at this time. Heading into the 2009 season they have no coaching controversy plagueing the the team and their two stars on offense, Russell and McFadden, appear to be recovering quite well from their post-season surgeries. Russell had an operation on his ankle to remove some bone chips and McFadden had a minor shoulder surgery, which up until now has been kept on the down low. Both are expected to be ready for action when March workouts begin.
The Raiders have already been making personnel decisions too. They locked up starting cornerback Chris Johnson with a four year deal and they brought in former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bruce Gradkowski who they claimed off of waivers. The Gradkowski acquisition is not so significant, but securing one of their strating corners is. Johnson performed well last year starting opposite Nnamdi Asomugha, who is eligible for free agency this year. Retaining Johnson's services will prove to be especially important if the Raiders end up losing Asomugha this off-season.
