Publication. Sweet, sweet publication

Don't get excited. Steve Corkran of the Contra Costa Times just answered my question:

Q.

With the Philip Buchanon trade to Texas, who are the Raiders looking at to fill the role of Kick/Punt returner? Do either Fabian Washington or Stanford Routt have any experience in that area?
Jim S., Seattle, WA 7/01/05

A.

Jim, With Phillip Buchanon gone, the Raiders have several options on kick and punt returns. They will try both of the rookies you mentioned, Fabian Washington and Stanford Routt, along with Carlos Francis, Doug Gabriel, Justin Fargas and perhaps even Ronald Curry. Whoever they settle upon at punt returner can't do any worse than Buchanon fared last season, so look for an upgrade there. Francis, Gabriel and Fargas have done well on kick returns in the past and should assume that role this season. Take care. Sincerely, Steve.
Steve Corkran 7/05/05

I'd forgotten about Carlos Francis, the fastest guy in the 2004 NFL Draft. With Fargas, I always feel a twinge of worry about his ball carrying. I don't know if I'd want to see Ronald Curry returning kicks. He's too valuable in the slot. (Though Tim Brown used to do it, even later in his career.)

It looks like we won't have much to worry about in this area. Now about that linebacking corps...