Right tackle Trent Brown hasn’t played a snap since the Las Vegas Raiders season opener. He has been dealing with a calf injury but could play in Week 5. Although the Silver and Black’s offensive line would receive a boost if he suits up, the team had better practice caution on this one.Â
This is not the first time Trent Brown has dealt with injuries
Brown quickly became a key cog in the Raiders offensive line after signing a four-year $66 million contract in 2019. The unit went from allowing 52 sacks in 2018 to just 29 last season and Brown was one of the reasons for the improvement.
Not everything was sunshine and rainbows for Brown in 2019 and he missed five games due to a pectoral injury. This season, the tackle has been struck by the injury bug once again and has been dealing with a calf injury since Week 1. All in all, he has just played snaps this year.
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The Raiders need to be careful with this one
Brown has been out for the last three games but there’s a chance he could play against the Chiefs. This week, he partook in back-to-back practices albeit in a limited manner and the team hasn’t ruled him out. Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Olson says Brown has looked good and he would be a great lift for the offensive line. Head coach Jon Gruden also pointed out that Brown wouldn’t be practicing if he weren’t in shape. Brown himself said he felt good but didn’t say whether he would play on Sunday or not.
It is not a given that Brown will suit up against the Chiefs. He could have a setback or simply not be fully healthy. If that’s the case, there’s no point in rushing him into the field. The Raiders offensive line has struggled in recent weeks and Brown would help stabilize the unit. Nevertheless, he could run the risk of aggravating his injury if he is not entirely ready.
As much as Brown could help the Raiders in Week 5, rushing his recovery is not worth the risk. With or without the right tackle, the Chiefs will present a tough matchup for the Silver and Black. Sitting this one out might be in the team’s best interest.
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Top Photo: Eric Risberg/Associated Press