I have received a lot of questions from readers this afternoon about how much of the 2012 season Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain will miss because of his court case in Alabama.
Right now, it is impossible to guess.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that after being sentenced to 180 days in jail, McClain's attorney, Harvey Steinberg, said McClain has filed a request for a jury trial and now, under state law, "the process starts all over again." Steinberg said McClain will be notified at a later date as to when the jury trial will begin.
If the jury trial is a quick process and McClain is sentenced, he could face jail time during the season. But who knows how long the process will be and there are appeals and other situations at play. Often, when athletes serve jail terms, their attorneys try to arrange it that the time is served during their offseason.
Also, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell could decide to discipline at any time if he chooses to suspend McClain. Again, this is a legal situation that is fluid. Any speculation on McClain missing time would be mere guesswork.
UPDATE: The Raiders released this stamement on the McClain situation: “The Raiders are well aware of the proceedings in the Alabama courts today. The team will continue to closely monitor the legal process, understanding that when appropriate the NFL will review the situation under its personal conduct policy.”
In other AFC West news:
The Broncos and kicker Matt Prater have a model to work with on a new deal. Fellow franchised kicker Conner Barth received a four-year, $13.2 million deal from Tampa Bay on Thursday. Prater has yet to sign his tender and he is not with the team during OTAs.
San Diego coach Norv Turner turned 60 on Thursday. Turner has proclaimed Chargers star tight end Antonio Gates ”back.” Gates has been dealing with foot injuries for several years.
Oakland running back Darren McFadden talks about his return to health on ESPN radio.
The Broncos announced they've signed fourth-round pick Omar Bolden. The cornerback is the team’s first pick to sign.