The Raiders have provided both Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers with plenty of chances to solidify their roles at right guard.
Unfortunately, neither has managed to impress enough, which has prompted the team to consider other options.
Now, rookie Trey Zuhn III seems to be in line for his opportunity.
During practice on Wednesday, Zuhn was seen alongside the starting players, hinting that he may be on track for his first NFL start against the Jets this Sunday. Although nothing has been officially announced, his presence in that group suggests a potential shift in the offensive line.
In light of Rogers’ subpar performance against the Rams, the team likely feels the need to explore alternatives.
“We’re going to give other guys opportunities,” head coach Klint Kubiak shared regarding the offensive line. “We’re going to keep shaking it up until we find the right mix.”
The search for stability continues.
Both Powers-Johnson and Rogers haven’t taken control at right guard, leaving a gaping hole in a position where reliable performance is desperately needed.
The issues extend beyond just one player, but the lack of consistent output at right guard has contributed to a struggling running game, which continues to hinder the overall offense. Too frequently, the Raiders have been overpowered rather than creating space for their running backs.
As a result, they currently have the third-worst rushing attack in the NFL.
During a four-game losing streak, these struggles have become increasingly apparent.
Turning to Zuhn might be another attempt to rectify this ongoing issue.
“I feel confident,” he mentioned about stepping in at guard, having also practiced at tackle and center this season. “If that’s what the team needs, it’s what I’m ready to do.”
He indicated that he’s been taking every practice rep seriously, doing whatever is necessary to help the team get him on the field.
His preparation has called for a lot of adaptability.
Rather than focusing on just one position, Zuhn has aimed to enhance his usefulness across the offensive line. This versatility undoubtedly provides the Raiders with options, though the primary goal is to find a combination that can consistently perform well.
Kubiak referred to Zuhn as a “Swiss Army knife.”
“He can do it all. He can play tackle, guard, center. He might even be able to play quarterback,” Kubiak joked, “though I haven’t let him try that yet.”
For now, he’ll likely concentrate on protecting the quarterback.
And bolstering the running game would be a much-appreciated addition.
“He’s a very intelligent, hardworking player who’s still improving,” Kubiak said. “He’ll have his chance.”
Zuhn has viewed the waiting period as a learning opportunity.
He’s been observing veteran players like center Tyler Linderbaum and left tackle Kolton Miller, paying close attention to the technical details that can dictate the outcome of a play.
“I’ve been learning so much, especially from the vets like Tyler and Kolton,” he explained. “I’m just trying to absorb as much as I can, especially those little things like hand placement and foot speed. There’s a lot to gain from watching them.”
Now, he may get the chance to apply what he’s learned.
Starting a rookie, of course, brings its own set of uncertainties, and appointing Zuhn won’t fix every flaw in the Raiders’ running game. But the ongoing evaluations of Powers-Johnson and Rogers have failed to yield a solid solution at right guard.
Eventually, providing another player a shot makes sense.
Wednesday’s practice hinted that the Raiders might be nearing that decision with Zuhn.
They’ve spent a significant amount of time hoping someone would take ownership of the position. This latest adjustment might just offer the rookie that opportunity.
