Oakland Raiders: 6 Critical training camp battles to watch

As the start of Oakland Raiders training camp draws near, which position battles stand out as the most competitive leading up to the 2018 season?

Throughout spring practices, you hear the fluffy commentary from the Oakland Raiders and other players throughout the league alike.

Most players on the field “look good”, “they’re flying around” and “out there making plays.” Yuck.

As Raiders defensive end Bruce Irvin says, (paraphrased) let’s see how they look with the pads on:

And he’s right. Once the players can hit, tackle and run around in more than shorts, we’ll know who’s doing what on the field.

When head coach Jon Gruden returned to the sideline, he injected palpable passion into those around him. Silver and Black writer Levi Damien described moments with the fiery but funny 54-year old lead skipper.

"Jon Gruden is hilarious. It has never been more of a struggle to not tweet out some of the things he will say at practice. The way he gets on his players, but still has them cracking up is something to behold. He is all energy and passion and has a million quips and digs mixed with praise."

As July comes to a close, it’s time to stop joking and get serious as players look to earn their spots on the 53-man roster or prominent roles for the upcoming season. Those who flashed in shorts must crank the intensity up to another level.

Gruden came back to Oakland to shake things up, and the competition at various positions certainly speaks to the agenda. Let’s take a look at the critical training camp battles, particularly starting roles, identify the competitors and project early winners at each spot.