Aug 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) takes the snap from offensive lineman Rodney Hudson (61) in the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Rodney Hudson
The Raiders acquired Rodney Hudson in free agency, and the chemistry between him and Carr has been great. Stefen Wisniewski was a solid center, but it seemed like there wasn’t the chemistry between him and Carr as their one season together featured lots of fumbles during the snap and other miscues. Something that hasn’t been the case with Hudson and Carr through three games.
Over the past two games, Rodney Hudson is tied for sixth overall in the league at the center position, showing a talent in pass blocking being tied for second overall with a +1.6 grade contributing to his overall +2 grade. As the Raiders start running the ball more and more, Hudson’s run blocking grade should improve accordingly.
Stealing Hudson from the Chiefs was a big coup for Reggie McKenzie, and has proven to be worth the price tag they paid for getting one of the best centers in the league. Last year the Raiders struggled with Wiz under center, and this year the position has become a position of strength on the offensive line. It may have been costly to bring Hudson in as one of the team’s highest paid free agents this year, but it should be worth ever penny if Hudson can continue to bring consistency and production to the position going forward.
Next: Offensive Line Breakdown: Austin Howard, J'Marcus Webb