DAVIE, Fla. (AP) -Daunte Culpepper has a chance to resurrect his career with Oakland, and fellow quarterback Trent Green is happy for him.
Green applauded Culpepper's decision to sign a one-year deal this week with the Raiders. Green was acquired by the Miami Dolphins in the offseason, ending Culpepper's brief and injury-marred stint in South Florida.
"I'm glad he got an opportunity to sign with somebody," Green said Wednesday. "I don't know Daunte that well. I do know that when he's healthy, he's one of the best quarterbacks in the league. And I wish nothing but the best for him."
Culpepper began 2006 as Miami's starter but struggled - sacked 21 times in the first four games - as he continued to recover from reconstructive knee surgery after an injury the previous season with the Minnesota Vikings. The Dolphins held him out so he could continue rehabbing and placed him on injured reserve.
When Green arrived in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs, Culpepper became expendable. The Dolphins tried for weeks to trade Culpepper, eventually releasing him on July 17.
After becoming a free agent, several teams showed interest in Culpepper, who ended up with the Raiders. He's expected to help groom No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell - who still hasn't signed with Oakland.
Green understands what Culpepper is going through physically. Green missed the 1999 season because of a knee injury, yet recovered and averaged 3,920 yards per full season since then.
"It's a situation I've been through with my knee and for me, it took a couple of years to get over it," Green said. "Fortunately, I've had a nice run since I was able to come back, so hopefully, he'll be in the same boat ... and it works out well for him."
The Raiders play at Miami on Sept. 30.
