Dennis O'Donnell: Crabtree Did Need A Change In Scenery
By Dennis O'Donnell
"He needed a change of scenery." It's one of the oldest, over-used excuses for unloading a player. But when it comes to Michael Crabtree, the axiom couldn't be more appropriate.
When Crabtree bolted the 49ers for the Raiders, he left a dysfunctional locker room for a rebirth as a player, a person and a teammate. Today he decided the silver and black scenery fits his persona so well that he put his signature on a four-year extension reportedly worth $35 million.
The deal isn't just about Crabtree. It's about the culture. It speaks of a new era in Oakland. Hey, check it out. Players actually want to stay in Oakland. Crabtree's deal sends a message from East Oakland to Commonwealth Avenue; the Raiders are trending.
Crabtree's contract means AC/DC/MC are here for years to come. Crabtree is here through 2019, Amari Cooper is signed through 2018, and Carr through 2017. They're not the best trio yet, but they have that ability. Carr has the arm, Cooper has the speed, Crabtree has the hands.
Jamize Olawale's three-year deal signed on Tuesday got less fanfare, but reinforces the culture shift and the future of the organization.
Now, if Crabtree could just convince the Raiders to sign a four-year extension with Oakland.
See you on TV.
