The Las Vegas Raiders’ biggest question mark going into the season was their offensive line. Two weeks into the season, the question remains unanswered.
The Raiders have rotated seven players throughout their offensive line. The Raiders’ only constants have been left tackle Kolton Miller and, prior to his injury, center Andre James. The two guard spots have been played by Lester Cotton Sr., John Simpson, and Dylan Parham. The right tackle spot has been rotated between Jermaine Eluemunor and Thayer Munford Jr.
The Las Vegas Raiders continue with a rotating unit this season
Not finding your five linemen before the season is concerning, but offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi said all of the linemen are competing and deserve a spot. “Again, all those guys are competing every single day in practice, and I think you will continue to see the same type of thing moving forward,” Lombardi said.
Positive early signs from Dylan Parham. #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/Mq6naUWXcO
— ð‘ð²ðšð§ (@Raider_Ryan1) September 18, 2022
The bright spot for the Raiders’ O-line has been the rookie, Parham. He has mostly played two critical positions during this young season, as he has lined up at right guard and center. Lombardi credited Parham for his ability to fill in for the injured James. “Dylan came in there and did a very good job because the center involves communicating, getting guys on the same page, getting calls out, making sure we’re all on the same page,” Lombardi stated.
The dreaded right tackle position is what is still hurting this team. Brandon Parker was set to be the starter, but then he went down with a season-ending injury. The Raiders would then give Alex Leatherwood another chance, but that ended in him getting cut before the season started. The Raiders are now left to rely on Eluemunor and Munford Jr. Eluemunor has been the starting right tackle for both games, but Munford Jr. rotates throughout the game. The snap count is in favor of Eluemunor, who is playing 70.4 percent of the offensive snaps, while Munford Jr. is at 29.6 percent.
Some final words…
Offensive line play is dictated by continuity and consistency. Not being able to get a group of the same five plays is going to hurt the Raiders. Lombardi and head coach Josh McDaniels have to figure this situation out before it gets too late in the season.
[pickup_prop id=”21952″]
*Top Photo: Official Raiders YouTube Channel
