The Raiders made some upgrades offensively. They used their first pick in the draft on speedy wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, giving them a big-play option in the passing game. And Oakland also improved at quarterback, added Jeff Garcia to the mix. He'll backup of JaMarcus Russell, but provides good insurance for Russell if he falters or gets hurt.

The biggest loss for the Raiders came on defense. Safety Gibril Wilson is gone. Wilson was second on the team in tackles last season, so his void will be tough to fill. Center Jake Grove and tackle Kwame Harris also left the team, leaving some voids along the offensive line.

The Raiders will have a top rushing attack this season. They have three capable backs. Darren McFadden is the big-play threat in the group and could have a breakout season his second in the league. Justin Fargas has been a solid starter and producer, and should get plenty of chances this season. Fargas has plus speed and moves in the open field. Michael Bush is the bruiser of the group. He is a big back, but also has pretty good speed and surprising moves. The Raiders should be a run-first offense with this group of talented backs at their disposal.

Oakland also has a top pass defense. They finished 10th in the league in pass defense last season. And the Raiders probably have the best cornerback in the game right now, Nnamdi Asomugha. Asomugha is a shutdown corner that is rarely thrown against. Chris Johnson is the other starter and does a pretty good job, grabbing three interceptions last season. The Raiders also improved at safety by grabbing Michael Mitchell in the second round of the draft. Mitchell is a top athlete with great playmaking ability. The Raiders will be a tough team to throw on this season.

The Raiders did make some improvements at receiver, but still lack that No. 1 guy. Heyward-Bey helps, but he isn't a polished product and could struggle some early in his career. After him, the Raiders have a lot of guys fighting for playing time. Chaz Schilens is the other likely starter, but Schilens is no sure thing with little experience. Javon Walker is the most experienced of the group, but can't stay healthy. Johnnie Lee Higgins is another top deep threat, but needs to improve his route running and consistency. The Raiders have a lot of question marks at receiver, meaning their passing game could struggle this season.

The Raiders rushing attack could keep them in some games, but they don't have much of a rush defense and their passing game should struggle. They could one a game or two more than last season, but don't expect a sudden jump to the playoffs.