The Las Vegas Raiders shook things up this offseason. Trading for quarterback Geno Smith and drafting explosive running back Ashton Jeanty signaled a clear message: the Silver and Black are desperate to inject life into an offense that was downright anemic last year.
But here’s the catch — none of that matters if the offensive line doesn’t hold up.
Right now, the biggest question facing the Raiders isn’t whether Smith can sling it or if Jeanty can break off big runs. It’s whether five mostly unproven linemen can give them the time and space to succeed.
Raiders Storage Bins On Sale !
Building Blocks Up Front
Head coach Pete Carroll sounds cautiously optimistic.
“I think they’re getting a good feel for one another,” Carroll said. “Kolton (Miller) is doing a terrific job. I’m really fired up about what Jordan (Meredith) is doing in the middle. So it feels pretty solid right now. There’s still room for competition, but at this point, we’re feeling pretty good.”
The left side looks stable. Kolton Miller is the anchor — a reliable veteran and Pro Football Focus’ 14th-ranked tackle last season. His new three-year, $66 million extension proves how much the Raiders value him. Next to him, guard Dylan Parham also graded well, landing inside the league’s top 25.
But the right side? That’s where things get shaky.
The Youth Movement
Rookies Jackson Powers-Johnson and DJ Glaze flashed potential last year, and Glaze looks like he’s locked down right tackle despite daily battles with star pass rusher Maxx Crosby in practice.
Powers-Johnson was initially penciled in at center, but Jordan Meredith has stolen that job for now, even though he’s never played center in a regular-season game. That pushed Powers-Johnson to right guard, where he’s adjusting quickly.
Meanwhile, veteran free-agent pickup Alex Cappa just returned from a rib injury, adding another layer of competition.
“JPJ is getting more comfortable,” Carroll said. “He’s really physical and powerful. He’s making progress.”
Depth Concern
Beyond the starters, depth is a real worry. The Raiders probably feel good about only seven linemen, including swingman Thayer Munford. Carroll admits the second group is raw, saying they have the physical tools but lack polish and consistency.
That could be a problem if injuries strike — and in the trenches, they usually do.
Shiny New Weapons Need Protection
Last season, the Raiders were bottom-of-the-barrel offensively:
- 29th in scoring (18.2 points per game)
- 27th in total yardage (303.2 per game)
- Dead last in rushing (79.8 yards per game)
Smith and Jeanty are supposed to change that. But if the offensive line crumbles, the Raiders could find themselves stuck in the same frustrating cycle.
Jeanty knows it, too.
“I want them to know, ‘Hey, you’re working hard and blocking. I’m going to take advantage of those plays and make the big ones down the field,’” the rookie running back said.
Final Cuts Loom
Of course, the line isn’t the only storyline. With cut-down day approaching, Carroll and his staff will have to trim the roster to 53 players. He made it clear he respects the effort of everyone in camp and keeps doors open for possible returns.
“These guys deserve to be part of this club,” Carroll said. “I love the way they’ve fought. When we make cuts, I want them to know there’s a path to come back.”
Injury Notes
- Backup RB Raheem Mostert missed practice Wednesday due to a family matter.
- Cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly, competing for a starting role, sat out with a hamstring injury.
👉 Bottom line: The Raiders’ season doesn’t just rest on Geno Smith’s arm or Ashton Jeanty’s legs. It rests on the shoulders of a young, unproven offensive line that must grow up fast.
