The biggest reason the Raiders are 6-4 (along with Derek Carr) is their offensive line. Despite all of their injuries, Tom Cable has his unit playing like one of the best in the NFL. However, the group might need to improve this offseason as they have a number of older players and big contracts they might move on from in 2021.
If the Raiders choose to upgrade their offensive line in the NFL Draft, they will have plenty of options. In a recent mock draft by Josh Edwards of CBS Sports, he has the Raiders selecting Northwestern offensive tackle Rashawn Slater:
“Las Vegas has an opportunity to create some salary cap space by parting with Trent Brown this offseason. Brown has battled multiple injuries — not all were his fault — and has seen the field very little this season. Money saved releasing the lineman would allow the team to fill other areas of need. Rashawn Slater is the type of player that would get Jon Gruden excited.”
Slater has proven to be a fantastic offensive tackle at the collegiate level, but he might project better at guard in the NFL. That might be a better fit for the Raiders as they may need a long-term solution at left guard or a potential replacement at right tackle for Trent Brown if the team moves on.
The Raiders will have plenty of options to improve their unit this offseason, but we will learn a lot about them over the next six weeks. Keep an eye on players like Denzelle Good and Brandon Parker as they could determine just how big of a need the offensive line in this season.
[vertical-gallery id=76383]
[lawrence-newsletter]