The Facts: Should you be alarmed that Lynch was not participating as the Raiders began voluntary workouts on Thursday? HC Jack Del Rio was not about to show panic as Oakland eases Lynch in. "Yeah, he's doing great, he's doing great," Del Rio said. "He'll continue to do the things that we're asking him to do. He's really soaking up the system. He's doing a great job fitting in."

Diehards Line: Lynch was on hand for the sessions, but he wasn't wearing a helmet as he began the process of "fitting in." There had been a thought or two from observers that the notoriously free-spirited Lynch might sit out the voluntary workouts. Not so, Del Rio said. Receiver Amari Cooper said he can already feel what Lynch brings to the team. "Physicality -- he's a physical back," Cooper said. "It's nice to have his presence there, just the energy he'll bring to the team, the attitude he'll bring on Sundays." The Raiders, in improving from an 0-10 start in 2014 to 7-9 in 2015 to 12-4 and a playoff appearance last season, have found a way to meld young talent with veterans. As ESPN.com's Paul Gutierrez suggested, think Charles Woodson, Justin Tuck and now Lynch. ... Meanwhile, we'll be watching for more on the veteran running back in coming days.