AFC West tidbits 8/20/08

[RevLimiter]

Raiders fans: Is trading for Boldin possible?

Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson

Whenever a quality player requests a trade, fans of other teams with a need at the disgruntled player's position naturally wonder if there could be a match.

That's the case among Oakland Raiders fans regarding unhappy Arizona receiver Anquan Boldin. Yes, the Raiders could probably use a receiver, especially if Javon Walker continues to leave Oakland coach Lane Kiffin unimpressed.

My mailbag has been deluged by inquiring Raiders' fans wondering if Boldin and the Raiders would be a good fit. I thought, because of the interest, I would address the situation now instead of waiting for the next mailbag post.

My initial thoughts? If Arizona were to deal Boldin, Oakland could be an interesting spot. The Cardinals would likely want to trade Boldin out of the conference where he couldn't hurt them. Oakland and Arizona don't play this season.

It appears, at this point, the Cardinals likely won't trade Boldin. Remember, Chad Johnson demanded a trade all offseason and he remains in Cincinnati. But you never say never. If the Boldin situation becomes unmanageable in Arizona, perhaps the Cardinals would reconsider trading him.

Does that mean Oakland would be a place Boldin would end up? It's very complicated. The Cardinals would be asking for a bundle. Then, any team that trades for Boldin would likely have to re-do his contract. The Raiders have little money after spending more than $255 million this offseason. Walker was signed to a six-year, $55 million deal. The Raiders just can't easily add another high-priced receiver.

But, remember, Oakland owner Al Davis is in a win-now mode as this year's spending spree indicates. It wouldn't be a shock to see Davis do anything in an attempt to improve his team. So will it happen? Probably not, for so many reasons. For one, the Cardinals don't want to trade Boldin. If they change their mind, then we'll revisit this.

Thoughts, Raydahfan?

Good news, bad news for Chargers

Just as All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates returns to practice, the San Diego Chargers got some potentially bad news.

Star linebacker Shawne Merriman is being checked by noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala. According to the North County (Calif.) Times, Merriman has persistent knee pain. Andrews repaired cartilage damage in Merriman's left knee earlier this year.

The team is saying this is just a checkup and that Merriman will be back with the team soon. But a trip to see Andrews is not exactly what any player wants.

This is a situation to monitor closely. I've long said the only thing that will keep the Chargers from making a Super Bowl push is a string of injuries. Losing Merriman for an extended period of time would be cause for concern in San Diego. Again, at this point, Merriman's trip seems precautionary.

Having Gates back is a very good thing and is a sign that he will be ready for the season opener against visiting Carolina on Sept. 7. Now the Chargers have to hope they have Merriman as well.

[poptart]

I doubt if Oakland trades for Boldin.
Al's M.O. is typical to try to trade when he's able to have leverage in a given deal, hence getting more than he gives.
I don't think he'd have a lot of leverage in going after Boldin.

Then again, you never know for sure.

I think the 'duds are going to hope that Walker comes around and plays like a true #1.


As for Merriman, really sucks the way the body doesn't respond when 'roids are eliminated from the workout diet.

bwaaaa ....

[RevLimiter]

As for Merriman, really sucks the way the body doesn't respond when 'roids are eliminated from the workout diet.

bwaaaa ....

Sometimes even the best 'roids won't help you heal either.

Sin,

[ChargerMike]

...Alice is salivating at the thought of signing Usain "Lightning" Bolt.

[poptart]

I doubt if Oakland trades for Boldin.
Al's M.O. is typical to try to trade when he's able to have leverage in a given deal, hence getting more than he gives.

Yes, that must explain the 150 million he laid out for three slappies this offseason.

The only trade was for D. Hall, in which Oakland got a pro-bowl corner for a 2nd and a 5th.