When you place a microphone in front of a rookie, two things could occur. Either boldly state how they choose to feel or retreat into clichés. Yet, for the draft picks that the Raiders selected, it appears to fall on the former. With that said, here are the most intriguing quotes.
Quinton Bell, on playing defense
“Ten times more fun,” he said. “A lot more fun. Like I said, when I got a chance in spring ball I got four or five sacks and ever since that day, I fell in love playing defense. My only regret is I should have tried it sooner. That’s my only regret. But here we are.”
Translation: With his attributes and eye-popping athleticism gives him an edge on oter rushers. However, with a rudimentary repertoire, he’ll need to quickly expand his knowledge base. Luckily for him, Bell’s explosion could immediately play in certain passing situations. In all honesty, running downhill with his speed, takes little to no time.
Clelin Ferrell, on vocal leadership
“It’s all about perspective,” Ferrell explained. “For me, I hear people talking about how they want guys to be vocal leaders, well, for me, I’ll just be Clelin, and Clelin just happens to be a guy who is highly motivated, highly energetic, very communicative, is a vocal guy. It’s not really me trying to be something, it’s really just me being myself, and that’s all that Mike [Mayock], and Coach Gruden, and Coach Buckner have asked of me. I guess they just see those qualities in me, so it’s just a blessing, man.”
Translation: If there were a perfect player with Mayock traits and Gruden focus, Ferrell could fit that role. Normally, rookies will either walk in brash or fade from sight under the hot lights. Meanwhile, Ferrell, much like his play is measured and focused, no frills. Not too many times, rookies will present with such a focus and calm. Given that the majority of th pass rush pressure to succeed resides with him, Ferrell seems unfazed.
If the first and last pick of the 2019 NFL Draft already appear this prepared, how does that play for the Raiders. Basically, if Oakland enjoys any positive plays from Bell, his draft selection will go down as a success. With Ferrell, he appears ready to assume the mantle of leadership and hopefully deliver the Raiders some semblance of a pass rush.
