Raiders Struggling with Offensive Line Issues for Second Straight Season #

The Las Vegas Raiders are facing significant challenges with their offensive line for the second consecutive season. While other factors contribute to the team’s offensive woes, the performance of the offensive line remains a critical concern.

The Raiders’ offensive statistics reflect these struggles:

• 33.6% pressure rate allowed (16th in NFL)
• 12 sacks given up (tied for 26th)
• 2.8 yards per carry average (32nd)
• 19.3 points per game (tied for 17th)

Last season, the offensive line performed adequately in pass protection but struggled significantly with run blocking. This imbalance made the offense one-dimensional and contributed to the team’s low scoring average of 17.4 points per game (27th in the league).

In the offseason, the Raiders’ management recognized the need to address the offensive line. They signed a veteran guard and drafted two rookies: a guard in the second round and an offensive tackle in the third round.

Three weeks into the current season, the line continues to struggle. With limited options available in free agency or via trade, the Raiders are looking internally for solutions. The development of their rookie draft picks may be crucial to improving the line’s performance.

Both rookie linemen saw their first offensive snaps in the recent loss to the Carolina Panthers. The second-round pick rotated in at right guard, while the third-round pick played most of the game at right tackle due to an injury to the starter.

The coaching staff was impressed with the rookies’ performances, particularly given their limited preparation. If the starting right tackle misses time due to injury, the team expressed confidence in the rookie’s ability to fill in.

As the Raiders continue to search for the best combination of players, they have already used four different offensive line configurations in just three games. The team’s leadership emphasized their ongoing efforts to find the right mix of players to improve continuity, chemistry, and overall performance in both pass protection and run blocking.