Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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FAYETTEVILLE, AR – OCTOBER 6: Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Alabama Crimson Tide blocks against Armon Watts #90 of the Arkansas Razorbacks at Razorback Stadium on October 6, 2018, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Crimson Tide defeated the Razorbacks 65-31. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

Offensive Line: Will this revamped offensive line be any good?

That’s all going to depend on how this group gels, and if Alex Leatherwood and Andre James can be what the team thinks they can. Whether or not Kolton Miller, Richie Incognito, and Denzelle Good can perform is much less of a concern. They’ve all been starters for this team in countless games and have done well. The only concern is if they can stay healthy for the entire season.

Leatherwood should do well, especially in the run game. He has all of the size and strength to do well there. In the passing game, he may occasionally struggles, especially against quick and explosive pass rushers. But it’s important to remember that many doubted Miller too, and he’s been able to grow into a really solid left tackle. If Leatherwood has the time, he should be able to follow suit.

Andre James is the only real question mark on this offensive line. It’s unlikely that he can match the talents of Rodney Hudson, whose career may land him in the Hall of Fame. That being said, James should still be able to get the job done.

After all, he’s been groomed to be a starting center since he was drafted in 2019. If he meshes well with Carr and blocks well enough, then this offensive line revamp should work out.

Answer: There may be some rough patches on the way, but this group can be successful.