Oakland Raiders Legendary Linebacker Coach Don "Wink" Martindale Speaks out About the Franchise's Recent Signing of star Lineman Ed Hartwell -- After Being Plagued with Injuries During his last Playing Season; he has Come back Stronger than ever to Solidify the Raiders' line

Oakland Raiders legendary linebacker coach Don "Wink" Martindale speaks out about the franchise's recent signing of star lineman Ed Hartwell

Oakland, CA (PRWEB) July 29, 2008 -- SLB Ed Hartwell has regained his health and is set to solidify the Raider's LB position. He has played MLB and could get a shot there on the Raiders' squad moving Kirk Morrison to the SLB position. The 6'1" 250lbs. free agent has good lower-body strength, takes excellent pursuit angles and is known for reacting quickly.

With all these factors in place, Linebacker coach Don Martindale states; "Instinctively this guy has not lost a step. He has brought his toughness to the team; which has spread throughout our LB meeting room. This guy is everyday tough! A true veteran; who wants everyone around him to get better." He goes on to say; "In the National Football League or in College Football something that has always separated Ed from other Linebackers I have coached. You don't have to watch him play because you can hear him play!"

In Ed Hartwell's own words; "Becoming an Oakland Raider means more to me than just getting back on the field. It's a chance to play for the best franchise in football history. It has the best fans that any sport has to offer, a great cast of talented players & coaches, a legend as an owner, one of the best (attack style) defensive coordinators in the league in Rex Ryan, and most of all I get to be reunited with the best coach I have EVER played for Coach Don Martindale. I vow to do everything in my power to bring another Superbowl to Al Davis and the Raider Nation."

About Edgerton "Ed" Hartwell:
Started at Wisconsin before transferring to Western Illinois University. In 2000, as a Senior, Hartwell was an All-American First Team. Drafted by the Ravens in 2001 with their fourth round pick. In 2002 with Ray Lewis out, Hartwell was the first player other than Lewis to lead the team in tackles with 191. He joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2005.

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