This drew widespread criticism from media and fans alike, as Heyward-Bey was expected to be a mid-first round selection.
He was called a height-weight-speed pick, being 6'2", 215 pounds, and running a 4.25 40-yard dash.
"DHB" wasn't a bad player; he earned All-ACC Honorable Mention in 2008 and was called the third or fourth best receiver in the draft.
Still, the pick was a reach and nobody liked it.
Raider fans rallied behind Darrius, saying he'd prove the haters wrong in the upcoming season.
Alas, this was not to be. Heyward-Bey accumulated only 9 receptions for 124 yards and one touchdown... in a season. He also had a huge case of the dropsies and had to play behind the horrible JaMarcus Russell.
That was 2009.
Now we're over halfway through 2010 and everyone is excited about Oakland's chances this season.
It has been reported that Darrius looked spectacular in OTA's and Minicamp, having gained 10 pounds of muscle and upped his entire game.
This news has slipped under the radar and people are focusing on Jason Campbell and Chaz "I Think It's My Knee" Schilens (I kid, I kid!).
What about Darrius?
Don't you want him to succeed? Because if he doesn't, the Raider image will be even more tarnished.
Yet another bust would absolutely make us the laughingstock of the NFL, and give the haters more to talk about.
I think he has the skills to succeed and everything is in place for him to make progress this season.
Here are some things that will definitely help him this year.
Jason Campbell
Jason is no savior, but he is the answer at quarterback for the next several years. People say he's just a game-manager; not a game changer. I beg to differ. The same people also say Campbell's a...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
