OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 14: Charles Woodson #24 of the Oakland Raiders leans against a cooler during the third quarter against the Houston Texans at O.co Coliseum on September 14, 2014 in Oakland, California. The Texans won the game 30-14. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
The Raiders expect to miss the heart and soul of their defense for a big chunk of the season.
Charles Woodson suffered a separated shoulder that could keep him out for significant time, according to ESPN's Josina Anderson.
It's a crushing blow for a secondary that could ill afford another. Nate Allen, the other starting safety, was lost with a reported ACL tear.
Taylor Mays was added to fill one of those spots. It'll be nearly impossible to fill Woodson's role, though. He's an on field leader and a locker room force.
Now, the 38-year-old will have to play just the latter role as he misses the first game action since his Raiders return.
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