Once the 2020 season concluded for the Las Vegas Raiders, it was clear that the offense was a strength. Despite this, the Silver and Black will enter 2021 with many new faces on offense after the departure of many fan favorites. Tasked with replacing these players, these three moves will be most important to the offense’s success in 2021.
Take a look at these three offensive additions for the Raiders…
Finding a long-term solution at right tackle
The selection of Alex Leatherwood at 17 has been highly criticized since the draft concluded. Nevertheless, it’s good to see the Raiders addressing their biggest need on offense. Although the Alabama product will certainly experience some growing pains early on, he should aid the running game immediately. Former teammates in Tuscaloosa, look for Josh Jacobs to score a handful of touchdowns running behind his big frame next season. The Raiders hope Leatherwood develops his pass sets and becomes a long-term fixture on the right side.
Retaining OL Denzelle Good
One of the biggest success stories of Jon Gruden’s second tenure, Good has developed into a terrific guard for Las Vegas. A pending free agent in the 2021 offseason, re-signing him became the Raiders’ top priority. This was especially true after the Gabe Jackson trade. Signed to a two-year deal worth $8.3 million, Raider Nation can take solace in the fact that they have him holding down the right side.
Securing a solid back up running back
The Raiders were left thin at running back once Devontae Booker left earlier this offseason. In fact, only Jalen Richard and Theo Riddick remained behind Jacobs. Enter Kenyan Drake who was signed to a two-year deal worth $11 million. Drake will give the Raiders an experienced ball carrier if Jacobs is to miss any time. Knowing how important the running game is in Gruden’s offense, look for Drake to operate as a 1A rather than an ordinary backup.
If the Raiders see development from last year’s rookies, they’ll roll out a formidable offense in 2021. These moves in the offseason will be the catalyst for a good season and show a willingness to not only add to strengths but fix weaknesses.
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*Top Photo: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images