The Raiders struggled last season, averaging the lowest points in the league at 14.2 per game and having the weakest rushing attack. They also allowed Geno Smith to be sacked 55 times—more than any other quarterback in the NFL.
Let’s take a closer look at the Raiders’ offensive depth chart after these significant moves.
Quarterback
Starter: Kirk Cousins
Reserves: Fernando Mendoza, Aidan O’Connell, Jacob Clarke
Overview: The Raiders opted for a complete overhaul at quarterback, drafting Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, and signing Cousins, an established NFL starter, to mentor him. It’s clear they’re looking to develop Mendoza patiently.
Kubiak and his team have indicated they won’t rush Mendoza into the starting role. If he proves himself, they’ll be quick to give him the opportunity. Meanwhile, Cousins has a track record of success, especially during his time with Kubiak in Minnesota, which gives the Raiders some reassurance.
Conclusion: The focus is on maximizing Mendoza’s potential. If patience is deemed the best path, they will wait. Assuming Cousins returns to form after his Achilles injury, he should provide strong play in the meantime. O’Connell’s future is uncertain—he could be a solid backup, but his role in Las Vegas seems less defined.
Running Back
Starter: Ashton Giunty
Reserves: Mike Washington Jr., Dylan Laub, Chris Collier, Roman Hemby
Overview: Giunty didn’t quite meet expectations last season after being picked sixth overall in the draft, yet considering the struggles around him, he did well to accumulate 975 rushing yards and 346 receiving yards. Heading into his second year, he has the potential to be a standout if the offensive line improves. Washington Jr. was a solid find in the fourth round and could become a reliable second option beside Giunty.
Conclusion: If Washington lives up to expectations, he and Giunty could form a formidable duo. Meanwhile, Laub’s versatility on special teams gives him an edge in securing the third running back position.
Fullback
Starter: Conor Hayward
Overview: After two years without a fullback, Kubiak has reintegrated the position into the offense. Hayward could serve as an essential lead blocker for Giunty.
Conclusion: As long as Kubiak is at the helm, the fullback role will be vital in Las Vegas.
Receiver
Starters: Jalen Naylor, Tre Tucker
Reserves: Jack Beck, Donte Thornton Jr., Phillip Dorsett II, Malik Benson, Dareke Young, Justin Shorter, Shedrick Jackson, Brenden Rice, Chase Roberts, EJ Williams Jr.
Overview: The Raiders have put faith in Naylor to step up as a key player, despite being in a star-studded Vikings receiver corps. He could potentially lead the pack now, with Tucker showing promise after strong numbers last year. Beck and Thornton Jr. are expected to take significant strides in their second seasons.
Conclusion: Surprisingly, the Raiders didn’t address the receiver position until late in the draft, indicating their confidence in existing talent. They will monitor the situation closely, but there might be room to act if needs arise.
Tight End
Starters: Brock Bowers, Michael Mayer
Reserves: Ian Thomas, Albert Okwuegbunam Jr., Carter Runyon, Patrick Gard
Overview: Bowers is viewed as a centerpiece for the passing game, with Kubiak’s system likely to enhance tight end performance. Mayer’s blocking ability should be utilized more effectively moving forward, potentially benefiting from Kubiak’s schemes.
Conclusion: The Raiders retained stability at tight end, with the focus primarily on making the most of Bowers and unlocking Mayer’s potential.
Offensive Line
Starters: LT Kolton Miller, LG Caleb Rogers, C Tyler Linderbaum, RG Jackson Powers-Johnson, RT DJ Glaze
Reserves: Spencer Burford, Trey Zuhn III, Charles Grant, Jordan Meredith, Will Putnam, Dalton Wagner, Antonio Mafi, Comer Missouri, Nicklas Henning, Isaiah Jatta
Overview: The lineup isn’t set in stone. Miller and Linderbaum are likely secure in their roles, but the other positions are competitive. The Raiders have invested heavily in their offensive line in recent drafts and aim for these young players to advance under new coaching.
Conclusion: With Miller and Linderbaum among the top in their positions, their health could be crucial for revitalizing an offensive line that has faced challenges. Powers-Johnson needs to step up after injuries, as alternatives await if he falters.
