Oakland Raiders: Potential surprise cuts and starters

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August 30, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders tackle Menelik Watson (71) is helped off the field after an injury during the first quarter in a preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at O.co Coliseum. The Cardinals defeated the Raiders 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
August 30, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders tackle Menelik Watson (71) is helped off the field after an injury during the first quarter in a preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at O.co Coliseum. The Cardinals defeated the Raiders 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Menelik Watson

Surprise Starter

Not sure if Watson starting would be much of a surprise. Austin Howard improved moving from right guard to right tackle in 2015. However, he was not that great.

Watson was beating him out for the position before an Achilles’ injury cost him his season. The 2013 second-round pick has been back practicing with the team, while Howard missed some time dealing with his own injury recovery.

Hence, Watson could cement himself as a starter. Again, it should not come as a surprise. Watson is athletic and has starting experience. He should end up starting for the Raiders at some point.