Oakland Raiders cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke (38) runs a drill with defensive back Zac Etheridge (left) during training camp at the Napa Valley Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-US PRESSWIRE
NAPA, CA (AP) - Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer lofted a tight spiral deep down the right sideline and appeared to have an easy completion to Darrius Heyward-Bey before cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke came in to break up the pass and knock the receiver to the ground.
A day earlier, Van Dyke spent much of the morning jamming receivers at the line of scrimmage.
It's all part of Van Dyke's plan to become a more physical defender with the Raiders after he struggled at times as a part-time starter during his rookie season.
One of two third-round draft picks a year ago, Van Dyke has been getting plenty of work with Oakland's first-team defense while projected starter Ron Bartell rests his sore hamstring.
The Associated Press