The Oakland Raiders have a handful of needs on the roster. That isn't really news to anyone after a 3-13 season. But what stands out is the team's need up front on the offensive line. The Raiders ranked just 27th in yards-per-carry average (3.7) and allowed 56 QB hits last season. And since the team moved Austin Howard to right tackle, the right guard position has suddenly become a big question mark.
Training camp and preseason will obviously see a competition for the starting gig, but the favorite to win that open spot may not even be on the roster yet. The Raiders sound like they are planning to target offensive linemen in the upcoming NFL draft.
"I would like to add to that group," general manager Reggie McKenzie told CSN Bay Area on Tuesday. "I want to add competition. Right now, I don't have enough offensive linemen on the roster. I want to bring some good ones in."
The team has Rodney Houston at center. Veterans Khalif Barnes and Kevin Boothe may fight for the RG spot. The coaches like what they've seen from second-year man Lamar Mady but it's unknown if he's ready to assume a starting role.
This year's draft has a strong crop of interior linemen. The Raiders struck gold when they selected Mississippi State's Gabe Jackson in the third round last year. Jackson is expected to man the left guard position for years to come after an impressive rookie season.
"Gabe held down the left side and played very well as a rookie," head coach Jack Del Rio said. "There will be competition at the right guard spot."
Fans should expect competition from a mix of veterans and younger player. Overall, the Raiders are focused on putting a good group out there to help the running game and alleviate some pressure from second-year quarterback Derek Carr.
"We're going to play the best five whoever that might be," Del Rio said. "Right guard is going to be a competitive situation in camp. I like Khalif as someone who has the ability to be a utility guy. If he ends up being the fifth best option, then so be it. If he earns the right to play there, we're certainly not going to stand in his way. We're going to put the best guys on the field."
