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Jack Del Rio's Gamble On Himself Pays Off

INDIANAPOLIS (AP/KPIX Sports) Oakland Raiders coach Jack Del Rio is a happier man now that he has a new contract.

"I bet on me on the contract. It wasn't a very good contract to start with, but it was an opportunity and I bet on our ability to get this thing turned around," Del Rio said during his press conference at the NFL Combine.

Three weeks ago, team owner Mark Davis rewarded the coach for the team's playoff run by tearing up the original contract and giving him a four-year deal that seemed more commensurate with Del Rio's experience.

The Raiders went 12-4 last season and made the playoffs for the first time since 2002.

Del Rio's risk taking throughout the season earned him the nickname "Blackjack Del Rio." He put that moniker to the test during a visit with CBS Sports.

TM and © Copyright 2017 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2017 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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