The Facts: If GM Reggie McKenzie could sit at a computer and construct a tight end from the players he has in camp, replacing the 79 receptions from the departed Brandon Myers wouldn't be an issue. Instead, the Raiders are watching the position group closely, hoping someone leaps to the forefront the way Myers did a year ago. It would be easy to imagine Oakland going with a platoon system involving some combination of veterans Ausberry and Richard Gordon, as well as rookies Nick Kasa and Mychal Rivera. HC Dennis Allen has other ideas. "We're looking for someone to step up," Allen said.

Diehards Line: Oakland Tribune staffer Jerry McDonald reminded readers that Myers, who signed with the New York Giants as an unrestricted free agent, won a competition against Ausberry and Gordon last season and ended up being on the field for more than 90 percent of the snaps. McDonald added, through five days of practice, Ausberry, a converted wide receiver who has grown into a 6--4, 261-pound tight end, probably rates an edge, albeit a slim one. Ausberry made a number of catches at Tuesday's practice, which is his forte. Gordon (6-4, 268) is the most accomplished blocker, and the Raiders plan to be a run-heavy team. ... Stay tuned. We'll be watching this one closely in coming weeks.