As I start covering the Oakland Raiders again (I covered them as part of the AFC West blog at ESPN.com from 2008-2013), let's take a look at some of the players I'm most interested in seeing:

Derek Carr: I've seen a lot of the "next starting quarterback" types in Oakland over the past six season. Of course, none have panned out. Carr is the next in line. He is no sure thing, but he probably has as good of a chance as any of the recent would-be franchise quarterbacks in Oakland. His development will be a huge storyline in the next year.

Khalil Mack: We all know about the Raiders' recent history of first-round flubs. I will be shocked if Mack ends up on that list. The outside linebacker, taken No. 5 overall in the May draft, could be special. If he is, it could be the spark Oakland's turnaround. An impact defensive player is that important.

Mychal Rivera: Following Rivera from afar last season, I liked what I saw from the rookie. I wouldn't be surprised if his production goes way up in his second season.

Justin Tuck: By all accounts, Tuck is a first-rate player and locker-room guy. The Raiders could use both. If Tuck can deliver on the field and in the locker room, it will go a long way to this team improving immediately.

Charles Woodson: Yes, he is nearing the end of his career, but he is a future Hall of Famer. I love covering Hall of Famers. It's an honor and I can't get enough of watching these guys play and talking to them about the game.