NFL

Jets GM John Idzik said just yesterday that Cribbs' knee wasn't yet up to snuff coming off meniscus surgery, but the Raiders decided they couldn't wait to sign the return specialist. Going on 30, Cribbs has taken a number of thundering hits over the years, but remained one of the league's best return men last season. Cribbs should see little, if any, time on offense. He's surpassed 200 yards receiving only twice in his eight-year career.

Although Holmes has been cut twice since late November -- first by Dallas and most recently by New England -- he's 6-foot-4, 210 with 4.45 speed and the Raiders need all the talent they can get. He'll compete for a roster spot.

Mastrud, 25, appeared in 14 games with Miami last season, playing 100 snaps. He wasn't targeted in the passing game and is purely a blocker. The Raiders also claimed WR Andre Holmes off waivers from the Patriots. To make room, Oakland released TE Mickey Shuler and DB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah.

Just a height-weight-speed project, 25-year-old Holmes has bounced around since going undrafted out of Hilldale. He has two catches in seven NFL games.

It's meant as a compliment, but Criner lit up pad-less workouts last offseason before not doing much of anything in the preseason or regular season. Standing in at 6-foot-3, 214 pounds with 4.37 wheels, Butler has always looked good in practice, but didn't do much on the field for San Diego State. The preseason will be his first real test.

Raiders rookie minicamp ' which was pad-less without hitting ' was the first time Hayden had practiced since suffering a torn heart cavity in a freak November collision. "The only time I think about it is when somebody asks me," Hayden said. "But when I'm on the field I don't think about it. I think about the play, and I think about the coverage. I've put it past me." Hayden's final test will be taking live hits, but the injury shouldn't be an issue going forward.

McGee was arrested for DUI and marijuana possession at Oklahoma, and was also suspended for unspecified rules violations. "We've had a lot of conversations," coach Dennis Allen said. "I think he understands the mistakes he's made. He's ready to learn and move on from it." Much like Buffalo's Da'Rick Rogers, McGee should be subject to a "one strike and you're out" policy.