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Kicker Sebastian Janikowski says Jack Del Rio is changing Oakland Raiders

Oakland Raiders Coach Jack Del Rio watches drills during the team's rookie minicamp on May 8, 2015.

Oakland Raiders Coach Jack Del Rio watches drills during the team’s rookie minicamp on May 8, 2015.

(Jeff Chiu / Associated Press)
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Sebastian Janikowski is entering his 16th season with the Oakland Raiders, and he likes what he sees from new Coach Jack Del Rio.

Speaking to Jerry McDonald of the Bay Area News Group, the 37-year-old kicker was upbeat about the changes he has seen in the team since Del Rio’s arrival.

“The atmosphere, the way players are in meetings is totally different,” Janikowski said. “[Del Rio] makes players relaxed, but he’s demanding.

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“In some other years, I wouldn’t say players didn’t care, but it’s not like it is now. Jack’s laid back, but he expects the best from you.”

Janikowski has played for nine coaches since breaking in with the Raiders under Jon Gruden in 2000. During that time, the Raiders have gone from Super Bowl runner-up to AFC West bottom-feeders.

Will Del Rio be able to snap the Raiders out of their decade-long funk?

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