NAPA — All 79 players in attendance at the Raiders training camp underwent a conditioning test Thursday morning before the team's first practice. Everyone passed, coach Lane Kiffin said.
That includes wide receiver Javon Walker, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, defensive tackle Tommy Kelly and center Jake Grove, players with an uncertain status as recently as two days ago.
Asomugha surprised the Raiders by reporting to camp, signing the one-year tender as the team's exclusive franchise player.
"It's a statement about who he is," Kiffin said of Asomugha opting against a camp holdout in hopes of receiving a promise from the Raiders that they wouldn't use the franchise tag on him again next year. "Obviously, he didn't have to be here. ... For him to be here the first day to run the conditioning test with us shows what a team player he is."
Walker ran well, according to Kiffin, allaying any lingering concerns about facial injuries he sustained during a robbery in Las Vegas six weeks ago.
"It's as if nothing happened as far as him being on the field," Kiffin said of Walker.
Walker spoke with Bay Area media for the first time since his ordeal but said it was too soon to discuss the matter.
Jordan update
Running back LaMont Jordan wasn't on the practice field Thursday, as expected. Kiffin said Raiders managing general partner Al Davis has stepped in to work with
Extra points
The Raiders released quarterbacks Sam Keller (San Ramon Valley High School) and Jeff Otis and defensive tackle Tranell Morant to make room for the signings of Asomugha, receiver Arman Shields and defensive end Trevor Scott. "... The Raiders hired longtime offensive-minded coach Paul Hackett, Kiffin said. Hackett's role will be to scout the Raiders' upcoming opponent. "He won't be involved in any coaching or working with the players," Kiffin said.
— Steve Corkran






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