Las Vegas Raiders: 15 greatest offensive linemen in franchise history
(1996-03). Lincoln Kennedy. 6. player. 28. . RT
Best offensive lineman in Raiders history: 6. Lincoln Kennedy
One of the few remaining players that was not drafted by the Raiders, Lincoln Kennedy was selected No. 9 overall in the 1993 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. Coming out of the University of Washington, Kennedy was an All-American and Morris Trophy winner for his exemplary play on the Huskies’ offensive line.
He did not last in Atlanta very long and was traded to the Raiders prior to the 1996 NFL season. Cheaply acquired, as it only took a late-round draft pick, Kennedy came in and immediately bolstered a very weak offensive front for the Silver and Black. He started immediately at the right tackle position, but bounced back and forth between the left and right sides throughout his tenure.
At 6-foot-6, 335 pounds, Kennedy is a massive human being. Add pads and a helmet and he becomes defensive ends’ worst nightmare.
Kennedy really came into his own from 1999 to 2002, a stretch that included three Pro-Bowl nominations, one All-Pro nomination and a trip to the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, Kennedy did not get his ring, but he was the anchor of the offensive line during the team’s run in 2002.
Kennedy now serves as the color commentator on Raiders radio broadcasts, alongside the ever interesting Brent Musburger. A Raider through and through, Kennedy was a trade steal for the Raiders that turned into 121 games of consistently solid tackle play from the big fella.
His demeanor, his talent and ultimately his reputation land Kennedy at No. 6 of the all-time best offensive linemen in Raiders history.