The Raiders offensive line improved big time last year. They helped Josh Jacobs produce a terrific rookie season and were able to keep quarterback Derek Carr pretty clean all season. Knowing that, there will be a few players available this offseason who could make this unit even better.
Brandon Scherff, Guard
Scherff is one of the best guards in the league, and it’s worth mentioning a move like this would likely only happen if the Raiders move on from Gabe Jackson, whose contract would need to be dumped in order to sign Scherff this offseason.
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Simply put, Scherff, who deserves a large paycheck, is currently one of the best linemen in the NFL. He is a terrific run-blocker and a solid pass blocker. Even though he’s missed some time with injuries, he’s shown his worth on the field when he’s been healthy. Coming from Washington, Scherff spent a lot of time in Jay Gruden’s offense, which is very similar to his brother Jon’s. Spoctrac measures the guard’s market value at $12 million per year, so as I mentioned, it would only be possible if the Raiders decided to move on from the $9 million they owe Jackson. If they do, Scherff is a great option.
Kelvin Beachum, Tackle
Beachum played left tackle for the Jets last year, and put up some pretty respectable numbers. The veteran was a good pass blocker last year, but the same can’t be said about his run blocking, which received a lowly 56.6 grade from Pro Football Focus. Beachum wouldn’t be coming in to be a franchise-changing player though. Instead, he would become a great depth piece. I applaud Brandon Parker for all his hard work, but I also know that Raider Nation is tired of seeing Parker get beat by an edge rusher and give up a sack. Beachum is an above-average pass blocker and would be a good depth option behind Kolton Miller, Trent Brown, and one that could produce better results than Parker.
