Signing Darius Makes Oakland Stronger

The Oakland Raiders defense got even better with the signing of safety Donovin Darius on Tuesday.

Darius, who was cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars for salary reasons, makes an already impressive Raider secondary even stronger in 2008.

Despite a 2-14 record last season the Oakland defense finished third in the league statistically, including a number one ranking in pass defense.

Darius, who turns 32 next month, had been a mainstay in Jacksonville's secondary since he was the club's first-round pick in the 1998 draft. But the Jaguars released him in June as they try to get younger, cheaper and faster on defense.

The Raiders are set at corner with youngsters Fabian Washington and Nnamdi Asomugha. Michael Huff mans the strong safety spot, while Darius will challenge incumbent Stuart Schweigert at free safety.

The offense is still the weak link of this team and the defense will have to keep Oakland in games for most of the season. One thing is for sure, the addition of Darius should allow the Raiders to maintain their number one pass defense.

Darius finished his career in Jacksonville with 614 tackles, 14 interceptions, eight forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries and two sacks. He has had injury problems recently - missing 14 games in 2005 with a torn knee ligament and six games last season with a broken leg.