Continuity and competition will propel the Raiders’ O-line in 2022

The Raiders will be relying on Alex Leatherwood and Brandon Parker

Parker, a 2018 third-round choice, has been a serviceable contributor when called upon, but many have never confused him as a foundational piece. Leatherwood, on the other hand, is a different story. The final first-round pick of the Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock administration, Leatherwood’s selection was hounded from the outset. Once it was clear that he wasn’t ready to handle starting right tackle duties, it only helped to serve the media as it ostracized the pick.

Even though Leatherwood’s move inside salvaged a near-disastrous rookie campaign, fans have at best questionable faith in the former Alabama product. Be that as it may, the men whose only opinion surely matters, Ziegler and McDaniels, believe in both Leatherwood and Parker.

When it comes to Parker, the Raiders highlight his untapped potential. Ziegler referred to him as an ascending player. Parker’s size, length, and athleticism are the key features that the duo believes make Parker a player worth investing in for the long run.

As far as Leatherwood, McDaniels pointed out that he played more than one position and will get the chance to find the spot he’s most comfortable at. More importantly, the head coach emphasized the importance of competition with his offensive line.

"“Let them compete. The best guys will play. But, in order to do that, we’ve got to let everybody have an opportunity.”"

Competition will bring out the best in each of these players, and when you throw in some rookies, the battle for offensive line snaps will be the most crucial battle of training camp. With the Raiders’ coaching staff letting this group battle it out, they’ll be able to pick the best lineup moving forward, and then, they’ll make the best of this situation.