ALAMEDA – Tommy Kelly knew with a big contract came big expectations. There also comes more attention when something goes wrong off the field.
A contrite Kelly spoke Wednesday about his arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence Sunday night. When one of the highest paid defensive tackles in NFL history (seven years, $50.5 million, $18.125 million guaranteed) gets in trouble, it doesn't go unnoticed.
"That's what it boils down to," Kelly said. "But you learn what not to do. I doubt if it'll ever happen again. I severely doubt it. It won't happen again."
Kelly went out after returning from the Raiders' 23-8 victory in Kansas City, Mo., despite not having a designated driver. Kelly said Raiders coach Lane Kiffin emphasized what Kelly does in his free time is his business, but he needed to be careful and not take risks that could harm him and others.
"It was a dumb decision on my own," Kelly said. "If I could go back I would have probably just left my car at the hotel and came back and got it the next day."
Pending the outcome of the case, Kelly would be subject to a fine or suspension by the NFL. Kelly will play in Sunday's game in Buffalo. The team will not take any action against him.
"The lawyer said they (will handle the case) so I'm going to let them do their job and go from there," Kelly said. "Whatever I got to do, I'm the one who committed the mistake. I take full responsibility. Whatever happens, I'll be all right."
Suddenly thin – The Raiders' top two running backs, Justin Fargas (groin) and Darren McFadden (toe) did not practice Wednesday.
That left the bulk of the running to Michael Bush. McFadden wore a walking boot on his right foot. Fargas' MRI Monday showed a strain.
"This week is probably not likely, but I'm not going to put any time or date on it," Fargas said. "Just going to keep rehabbing and get back as soon as possible." McFadden is expected to practice today.
Without Fargas the team loses it's best back in pass protection. Besides Bush, the team could also use fullback Justin Griffith to run the ball or promote Louis Rankin from the practice squad. That would require the Raiders cutting a player.
More injuries – Wide receiver Javon Walker (hamstring) didn't finish practice. It's another blow to the struggling passing game. Walker was inactive Week 1 and played sparingly Sunday in Kansas City.
"I started talking to him (Tuesday) about it, about a big week, this team needs you," Kiffin said. "Unfortunately, halfway through practice he can't go anymore."
Starting left tackle Kwame Harris (knee) did not practice but ran on the side. He missed last week's win over Kansas City.
Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (ankle) left the field before practice but returned and practiced.
Read Jason Jones' Raiders blog at www.sacbee.com/raidersblog.
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