Oakland Raiders: Be Patient with Aldon Smith, Mario Edwards’ Returns

Oakland Raiders fans have grown impatient with the potential returns of Aldon Smith and Mario Edwards Jr. What’s the latest on both players?

For the Oakland Raiders fan base, the rumor mill revolves around defensive linemen Aldon Smith and Mario Edwards returning to action. Both players would provide a significant push within the front seven.

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At the moment, Edwards continues to work out with the trainers, but he’s yet to officially return to the practice field. On Nov. 17, Smith served a complete yearlong suspension, which makes him eligible to return, but he needs the green light from the league office.

In both cases, it’s a wait-and-see approach. At any given time, Commissioner Roger Goodell could lift the ban on Smith, but it’s not a definite. For those monitoring Twitter, all signs from the players point to a return:

However, neither quarterback Derek Carr or Smith make the decisions.

The Periscope Video

In July, a Periscope video surfaced, and at the very least, Smith’s likeness came into question during the video. Did he record himself using a prohibited substance under NFL guidelines?

According to ESPN’s Ed Werder, the league launched an investigation. Strangely, the league never provided further comment on the case. Days after the video became public record, Smith denied his involvement in the video, but checked into rehab, per TMZ.com.

Without an official NFL comment, it’s unclear what the league found or didn’t find through the investigation. Though, it’s encouraging to see Smith check himself into rehab because it shows a desire to rectify his personal issues. The video and his proactivity will factor into Goodell’s decision.

Edwards’ Hip Injury

Somehow Edwards’ road to recovery started with a potential Week 3 return, extended to a mandatory eight weeks on injured reserve, and then pushed to Week 11 working out with trainers until he’s ready to practice. We’re not even discussing real games yet. We’re talking about practice.

Obviously, the second-year defensive lineman has experienced a recovery that’s progressed slower than expected. The Raiders still don’t trust him on the field for contact behind the scenes yet. His status for Week 11 seems doubtful at best.

When Edwards finally returns to action, he must re-acclimate himself to the defense and snap into active football shape. Physical conditioning will activate his return to the field, but his ability to take and give hits determines his effectiveness on game day.

Word of Advice

Despite swirling rumors, only the league office knows when Smith will be able to rejoin the team. With all the hope for Edwards’ speedy recovery, his body controls his fate.

Raiders fans should focus on the healthy, active bodies contributing to the front seven. New additions have shown significant improvement over the past few weeks. After the Kansas City Chiefs embarrassed Oakland in Week 7, the Raiders have tightened up on total defense. Ken Norton’s group has allowed fewer than 350 total yards over the last three outings.

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Rookie defensive linemen Jihad Ward and Darius Latham have improved their play on the defensive line. Linebackers Perry Riley and Cory James have excelled in starting positions. Raiders fans will continue to check their phones and social media for the return of two major assets, but they should feel encouraged with the development of the guys on the field.