The Las Vegas Raiders need to start thinking about a long-term solution for the left tackle spot. Whether they find it through the draft or free agency, it’s something to begin considering.
Kolton Miller’s toughness is unquestionable. Back in December, he tried to return from a high ankle sprain and a hairline fracture he had sustained earlier in the season. However, that attempt did not succeed, and perhaps it was for the best. By that point in the season, which was already lost, there was little reason to risk further injury to Miller.
In the larger context, the Raiders must approach their situation with practicality. With Miller now past thirty, there is growing concern among fans about the potential for future injuries. At this point, it’s clear what Miller brings to the table and what he lacks—he is a solid left tackle, even a reliable one, but he does not possess the qualities of a franchise player. If Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is set to be the new signal-caller, the rookie will require a transformative tackle to support him.
The question is, how can the Raiders go about executing such a grand plan?
The Raiders should take a look at Rasheed Walker…
Despite news involving Green Bay Packers tackle Rasheed Walker and his recent arrest, he would still be a worthwhile candidate to replace Miller. Walker’s lawyer has already stated that the incident was all a misunderstanding—so, legal matters aside, the former seventh-round pick is a viable option. He’ll likely command a sizeable contract, but isn’t protecting Mendoza worth the investment? There’s a reason he’s one of the league’s top free agents this offseason.
Raiders general manager John Spytek may also consider the draft as a way to establish a succession plan. If Las Vegas selects Iowa’s Gennings Dunker or Northwestern’s Caleb Tiernan, it may not generate a lot of buzz online, but it could lead to success on Sundays.
Tiernan is the technician: precise hand placement, timed strikes, efficient feet and a calm anchor against power. He plays in phase, resets when he loses leverage, and moves well enough to be a real piece in the screen game. That profile travels in a league built on speed and spacing.
Dunker is the tone-setter: thick, rugged and violent at contact. He creates lift on drive blocks, rolls his hips, and generates knock-back power that can move a front and punish linebackers. The future NFL lineman isn’t too subtle, but he’ll get the job done.
Here is the critical part: tackles like this do not fix quarterbacks by themselves. But if Las Vegas is serious about a young passer, this is what seriousness looks like.
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