5 things to blame if the Raiders do not make the playoffs again

2 of 5

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 26: Offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Las Vegas Raiders blocks outside linebacker Brennan Scarlett #57 of the Miami Dolphins during their game at Allegiant Stadium on September 26, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Dolphins 31-28 in overtime. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

5 things to blame if the Raiders do not make the playoffs again

Revamped offensive line

One of the bigger parts of the offseason for the Raiders was what they did along the offensive line, trading away three starters from last year’s unit. While the team traded away Gabe Jackson and Trent Brown, two solid players, it was the trade of Rodney Hudson that sent shockwaves through Raider Nation.

Hudson was the leader of this offensive line, and the best player in the NFL at his position, and was replaced by a player with very little experience. To start the season, that move looked like a huge mistake, as Hudson was doing his thing for an undefeated Arizona Cardinals team, and Andre James struggled to make the jump to a full-time starter.

Also, first-round draft pick Alex Leatherwood did not work out at right tackle replacing Brown, while the Raiders have had to shuffle the deck along the offensive line all season long. Some weeks are better than others, but in the end, there has been very little run game, and some very bad games by this unit, something that could come back to haunt the franchise.

Home/Las Vegas Raiders News