Not a huge signing that will shake up the landscape of the NFL by any means, but it was a quality pickup to add depth to a group of young CB's that needed some veteran influence.
Stanford Routt and Chris Johnson will most likely start the season as the 2 CB's, but Sheppard gives Oakland a nickel back. Sheppard is a 2-time Pro Bowler who is more than capable to step in and start in case of injury if Johnson is not ready the first game of the season.
He played in 13 games last season with the Vikings. He had 18 tackles and 4 PD in limited action. He only started 2 games for Minnesota.
In 2006, he made the Pro Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles. His stats were pretty impressive that season: 30 tackles, career high 19 PD with a career high 6 INT's.
No, it won't shift the balance of power in the West, but the Raiders just got a little deeper at a position they were vey weak at.
GO RAIDERS!!!!
Jessica Gomes
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I agree. We need some depth at CB. Obviously without Nnamdi we've taken a step back in this area, but Sheppard should provide some depth and a veteran presence.
NEW NAME
Total Comments (8521)
Real talk.
DJRoxalot
Total Comments (108505)
This is good news. Feel a little better with Sheppard available to step in should the young players need more time to grow in the position.
LoveItHateIt
Portland, OR
Total Comments (11675)
Lito will be a perfect, nickel back/emergency starter. Solid addition.
lexicondevil
Total Comments (734)
all agreed - Lito will be a contributer right out of the gate. here's to hoping that we are not done dealing - need o line
crazyalzado
Total Comments (4152)
This is a solid pickup. The guy has been through the wars and can provide needed stability in a limited role.
Otis B. Driftwood
Total Comments (30605)
Lito Sheppard is still a good pick up for any team.
XMOFO
Total Comments (164)
So what's the consensus after pre-season? Other than the Chargers, I think the Raiders have a good shot at the division. Not sure if 2nd in the division will get them into the playoffs though. Pryor, still scratching my head...
Anybody heard from Kagan lately?
UnBiasedPerspective-…
Total Comments (45215)
Oakland released Lito Sheppard today. Odd move.
(Un)
Inferiority Complex Group, FN
Total Comments (16172)
Can I get back to you on that? LOL.
Seriously, I think 2nd is reachable but I agree it probably won't be enough for the playoffs. Baby steps are good as long as they are forward and not backward.
LoveItHateIt
Portland, OR
Total Comments (11675)
Not at all sure what to make of that. I would have kept him even if only for leadership and mentoring. Maybe he wasn't happy in that kind of role? It's a very curious move.
LoveItHateIt
Portland, OR
Total Comments (11675)
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