RB Taiwan Jones arrived at training camp in Napa a year ago on the team bus as an anxious rookie, not knowing what to expect.
Jones arrived at camp Saturday behind the wheel of his own car. This time, he's filled with confidence and ready to compete for playing time.
"Last year, with the lockout, I didn't know what I was getting into," Jones said. "This year I have an idea, so I was able to prepare my body as far as conditioning and strengthening, to be ready for it."
Jones, one of the fastest Raiders, was hampered by hamstring injuries as a rookie during training camp and the regular season (he missed the final six games.) He carried 16 times for 73 yards, averaging 4.6 ypc.
"I believe I speak for anyone when I say being healthy is a big part of this game, especially for me," Jones said. "This is the first time I had a real offseason where I could train and prepare my body for a season."
When the Raiders hit the field for their first practice Monday, Jones will begin competing with Mike Goodson, acquired from Carolina in an offseason trade, for the job as Darren McFadden's primary backup. Michael Bush, who held that job the prevous three seasons, signed with Chicago as a free agent.
"When Michael Bush left, I felt like it was more demand on me to step up to help this offense," Jones said.
Jones said he expects the backup to get plenty of work even if McFadden, who missed nine games last year with a foot injury, stays healthy.
"Just from hearing (coach) Dennis Allen talk, he wants to run the ball," Jones said. "And the offense that we've got installed, they've got a lot of run game. So I believe there will be more than one running back getting touches."
New Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Knapp has installed a zone-blocking scheme that should take advantage of Jones' speed and ability to make one cut and head up-field.
"I think that's a big part of my game is the one-cut-and-go," Jones said. "Everybody knows that I'm a speed guy, and I'm able to stop on the go and change direction. So I think that plays well for me."
