Charles Woodson: Raiders’ DJ Hayden missing camp a ‘big setback’

Sep 23, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback DJ Hayden (25) after the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 37-21. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback DJ Hayden (25) after the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 37-21. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

A report earlier this week suggested that Oakland Raiders cornerback DJ Hayden, their 2013 first-round draft pick, is still nursing a foot injury. There were even reports that he may open training camp on the active/PUP list because he is still not healthy.

More from Las Vegas Raiders

Veteran teammate Charles Woodson said it would be a “big setback” for Hayden to miss part of training camp.

“As I’ve said many times, the most important thing in this game is being out on the field,” Woodson explained, via NFL.com. “There’s only so much being in the film room and studying plays can do for you. It can only take you so far. You need to be out there.”

Hayden was wearing a walking boot during the offseason practices, and missed a chunk of training camp last season. Hayden has had more than his fair share of injury woes, battling a heart issue in college before undergoing abdominal surgery after the Raiders drafted him. He also missed eight games and was put in injured reserve last year for a groin injury.

The Raiders have Carlos Rogers, Tarell Brown, and fourth-round rookie Keith McGill on the roster at the position.