A look at Mini-Camp Attendance for the Oakland Raiders, Rest of AFC West

Stuart Kovacs – Jun 21, 2012

The Oakland Raiders took the field last week for their three-day-long mandatory mini-camp session. Even though they were battling through injuries, the team had 100% practice attendance.

Dennis Allen, who is in his first year as head coach of the Raiders, was extremely happy with the attendance. He believes this is a good start for a team that is attempting to begin a new era.

“We’re building a team and the only way you can build a team is if you have everyone here to build the team. So we’ve got to work together, build the chemistry, build the camaraderie within the team, and at the end of the day, it’s those bonds that you develop during these times and in training camp that take you through the rest of the season.”

Of the injuries, none of them appear to be that serious. Second-year players Stefen Wisniewski (shoulder) and Denarius Moore (hamstring) are probably the biggest concerns but both are expected to be ready for the start of training camp.

One may ask how the Raiders’ attendance at the mandatory mini-camps compares to the other teams in the AFC West.

The San Diego Chargers, who are currently in the midst of their mandatory mini-camps, also have had perfect attendance thus far. However, the two other division rivals of the Raiders can’t say the same.

The Denver Broncos, who held their mandatory mini-camps between June 12^th and 14^th, were without their star kicker Matt Prater, who is holding out for a new contract.

The Kansas City Chiefs were also without a major piece of their team. Wide receiver Dwayne Bowe was not in attendance during the Chiefs’ mandatory mini-camps between June 12^th and 14^th due to not signing his franchise tender. The 2010 Pro Bowl selection is looking for a long-term contract.

With mandatory mini-camps wrapping up throughout the league, the Raiders should be excited with their attendance. While it’s not rare to have perfect attendance at these practices, it’s a good thing that the team can just focus on the play on the field rather than contract negotiations.

Follow us on Twitter: @StuartKovacs and @RNTimes