Raiders 2022 free agency: 3 realistic moves that still make sense
Raiders 2022 free agency: 3 realistic moves that still make sense
Michael Schofield
Finally, we get to the third-option; Right tackle Michael Schofield.
heading into the off-season, the hole at right guard/tackle was one that desperately needed to be fixed. Now four days into free agency, it still hasn’t been touched. Schofield isn’t the best player available by any means, but he does give the Raiders one distinct feature that makes him more of a fit than most.
There are plenty of quality tackles still available on the market. With names like Duane Brown, Riley Reiff, and Bryan Bulaga floating around free agency, it might make you ask what’s so special about Schofield. The answer is his professional-level experience at guard.
When it comes to 2021 first-round pick Alex Leatherwood, his development is a top priority. The ’21 rookie spent time at both right guard and tackle, although he was drafted to be the team’s right tackle of the future. Now, with the front office who drafted him out and Ziegler in, the future of where he is on the line remains uncertain.
Bringing in Schofield makes this a decision that has no negative impact no matter where you choose to develop Leatherwood. Schofield has played the right tackle position in three out of his seven years, and right guard in the remaining four.
The last time Schofield was a starting right tackle for a season, he allowed two sacks. The last time he was a starting right guard, he allowed just one. You can place Schofield wherever you like, and he should prove reliable.
The one thing more important than fixing the line is allowing Alex Leatherwood to blossom, and adding Schofield would let Leatherwood play wherever he’s most comfortable. Ultimately, this provides maximum efficiency from the rookie of one season ago.