{Nutt} 'Let me start by saying thanks to Mr. Davis, the Oakland Raiders franchise, the players, the alumni, the fans, and the future stars. It is humbling to be here before you today. Let me clear up a few things right off the bat before I really get into the mean and potatoes.
As you know, November 26th, 2007, I resigned my position as Head Coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks football team. We had just defeated the #1 team in the nation, the eventual National Champions. We handed them their only defeat of the year - but my own personal enjoyment was quickly replaced by despair.
I could no longer shield myself and my family from the countless attacks and allegations. Even our greatest success seemed to only fuel the fires. Some say it was a witch hunt, some say it was past due. I have no desire to get into the how's and why's. Let's just say everyone knew it was time for me to protect my family and my players and move on.
I was hurt, angry, betrayed. I was lost. Then the phone rings. It's Ole Miss calling. Without thinking I jumped at the chance to stick it to the higher ups at Arkansas. I was determined to build Ole Miss into a powerhouse that would dominate the SEC, and look down on those who disparaged me. That was wrong.
There's no place for hatred like that in my life. It would burn me up and burn me out. My players would suffer, my family would suffer, and I would suffer. I felt trapped and lost.
Fast forward two months. January 26th. I start getting texts that an NFL Head Coach has been fired. That's too bad for him, I thought. I hadn't really been mentioned in NFL Head Coaching conversations; but my wife said she had this feeling... and the next day the phone rang. Mr Davis was on the line. He was asking me to come to California and talk. Of course I went. The conversation went well, I'd say, I'm here, aren't I?
I feel the need to keep most of the conversation private, but I can tell you that we both were on the same page. Where I was in my life, staying with Ole Miss, staying the SEC - not only was it not right for me, it wasn't good for me. I needed to get out of the SEC, the NCAA, heck, that side of the country. I needed to find myself, and to repair the damage done to my name. The Raiders and I have that same goal - to return to being what we used to be.
Mr. Davis himself called Ole Miss and talked with them at length. They understood, and publicly supported my decision. I wish them nothing but the best in the future. As for Arkansas, I wish them the best as well. I know there will be a ton of gossiping and bitterness with the way Coach Petrino left the Atlanta Falcons and 'took my old job'. That was one more clown in the circus I needed to distance myself from; and I can assure you that I will be staying here in Oakland for years to come; and WILL NOT abandon the Raiders to return to a college coaching job, no matter the offer. I give you my word.
As for the state of the Raiders, I was told up front the staff was to remain in place. It's too late for them to have a fair shot at new jobs, and it would help me transition to the NFL. I was made aware about incident with Coach Ryan and Coach Kiffin; and I assured Coach Ryan that no matter what happened this season, I would support him making a run at a Coordinator or Head Coaching position 100%. I'm not here to hold anyone back. The only new member of the staff is Coach Lofton, who was hired last night. I am beyond excited to work with him - he was a legend on the field, a former Raider, and a hell of a coach.
As far as the players go, give me some time to meet with them and talk with them. JaMarcus is our quarterback of the future. Mr. Davis and I agree on that point as well. Does that mean the future is week 1? That's up to so many variables we'd need a new press conference just for that! I will be evaluating all positions; and we have a good Cap Strategist to help Mr. Davis and I get the best players we can.
I think I've talked long enough. Thanks for you time.'
{Al Davis} 'Just one more thing, Coach Nutt has won 111 NCAA games in his career. I expect him to top that before his time in Oakland is done. JUST WIN, BABY!!!