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Inside Bay Area - Oakland finds many uses for veteran Darius

excerpt:

Raiders defensive coordinator Rob Ryan on Saturday night provided a glimpse into how he intends to use Darius on a defense that returns all 11 starters, including free safety Stuart Schweigert and strong safety Michael Huff.

Darius entered the game on Oakland's second defensive series in place of Schweigert. One play later, all three safeties were on the field in the team's "Wolverine" package, where outside linebacker Sam Williams leaves the lineup.

Later in the same series, Darius filled in for Huff at strong safety. Darius, who turned 32 today, had a reputation as a linchpin of the Jaguars defense.

Injuries limited him to 12 games the past two seasons and made many wonder if he had anything left. Ryan already is sold on Darius.

"He's got to learn our system and fit in," Ryan said, "But, trust me, all defenses have spots for great players, and he's a tremendous player. He's been a tremendous player in this league, and we're excited about him. His leadership and his toughness are great plusses for the Raiders."

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