3. Mike Mayock is bringing a new kind of energy to the franchise

Gruden has said it time and time again: Mike Mayock is bringing something more than just analytics to the franchise. He is bringing in a new sense of pride and positivity. It’s one thing for Gruden to bully his way through a roster and it’s another for Mayock to play nice and inspire loyalty from the rostered players who see he believes in them.

In a rare circumstance where the GM was considered to be a placeholder by many, Mayock has come in and proven this perception wrong. Hell, I’ve already started calling them Gruyock because they seem to both be on the same page more often than not and, if they aren’t, they sure are doing a great job of hiding any conflict. Mayock has added to the franchise’s mindset and meshing. It’s almost as if Mayock is good cop while Gruden embraces the bad cop and executioner’s role.

“He has energized the building,” Gruden said. “He has worked well with all of the people, the scouts, the players, the agents. His ability to pick up the phone and call anybody in the league and have a legitimate conversation that has been well thought through is important, and he’s got a lot of credibility in the building and in this league, and we’re happy to have him. He’s been on the fast track to learn all of the nuances of his new position, but his leadership and his passion for the Raiders and his passion to help this team get better is what I love being around him the most. So far, it’s been great.”