OK, so Doug Gabriel wasn't perfect this summer.
The Oakland Raider receiver -- a second-year player who looks to be on the verge of a breakout season -- made three long touchdown receptions through three exhibition games, but all of them were thrown by Kerry Collins. Seeing as how Rich Gannon probably is going to be the team's starting quarterback this season, Gabriel was buttering up the wrong guy.
What's a little thraux pas among friends?
Otherwise, Gabriel has been the Raiders' unexpected August blockbuster. Before this weekend's games, he led the league with 238 yards receiving in exhibitions and has averaged 56 yards on his three scoring catches. He'll be Oakland's third receiver, and he's making the Raiders feel a lot better about letting go of Tim Brown.
Ten other players who, judging by the way they've looked lately, could be ready to say so long to anonymity:
Steven Jackson, running back, St. Louis -- Although he was projected by many to be a top-10 pick, Jackson fell to 24th in last spring's draft, and already he's looking like a steal. He led the league with 323 yards rushing during the exhibition season. It's only a matter of time before he's splitting time in the backfield with Marshall Faulk, who has undergone two knee surgeries in the last 11 months.
Tyrone Calico, wide receiver, Tennessee -- Calico has proved he can make spectacular leaping catches. Now, we'll see how well he bounces back. He had arthroscopic knee surgery this week and will sit out the Sept. 12 opener at Miami. That might come as some relief to the Dolphins because Calico has been outstanding this summer and leads the Titans in receptions.
Will Poole, cornerback, Miami -- Poole probably will be the fourth cornerback this season, a guy used primarily in dime packages, but the former USC standout has had a great summer. He has forced more fumbles at camp than any other Dolphin, and he seems to make at least one big play every practice.
Javon Walker, wide receiver, Green Bay -- The Packers are expecting big things from Walker, their best deep threat since Antonio Freeman. He showed a knack for getting behind secondaries last season, was third on the team with 41 receptions and averaged 17.5 yards a catch, better than every Packer but Don Beebe, 17.9, in the previous 15 seasons.
