Oakland Raiders 2019 Week 1 53-man roster projection
Offensive Line
Starters: Kolton Miller, Jonathan Cooper, Rodney Hudson, Gabe Jackson, Trent Brown
Reserves: Denzelle Good, Brandon Parker, Lester Cotton, Denver Kirkland
Over the last few seasons the Raiders have been known across the league to have one of the better offensive lines. However, last season that wasn’t the case. The offensive line struggled dramatically, allowing Carr to get sacked a career-high 51 times. At certain points of last season the offensive line was starting rookies at left and right tackle.
Heading into 2019, Tom Cable and the offensive line are looking to put last season behind them. Now after a healthy offseason, Kolton Miller was able to put on more muscle and it’s showing, as he’s been a standout during training camp thus far. Four-time pro-bowler Richie Ingonito was brought in to bolster the left guard position, but will serve a two game suspension. It appears Jonathan Cooper will start in his place while Incognito serves his two games.
Rodney Hudson is arguably the best center in the NFL and could get a contract extension before the season gets underway. Gabe Jackson is another staple of this offensive line, who consistently puts together solid campaigns. And last but certainly not least is the largest offensive tackle in the league, Trent Brown. The Raiders made Brown the highest paid offensive lineman, and it doesn’t appear they regret that one bit, as he’s been a force in camp, throwing defenders to the ground.
Giving the offensive line some added depth will be Denzelle Good, Brandon Parker, Jonathan Cooper and Lester Cotton. Good saw some time starting at guard last season, and looked incredible. He’ll get his share of snaps after he recovers from back surgery. Parker had a rocky rookie season, but after spending the offseason with Gabe Jackson, he should be both stronger and more polished.
Cooper is another figure who’s been a starter in this league and will give the unit some veteran experience. Cotton is entering his rookie campaign, but has surprised a lot of folks for his ability. He went undrafted, but the Raiders took notice and didn’t want to let that opportunity slip away.