The Las Vegas Raiders make their first selection in this year’s draft, where they decide to roll with Memphis’ offensive lineman Dylan Parham. This pick opens up a multitude of options on the offensive line, and we’re going to cover a few of them.
The Raiders had the 86th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft but decided there was no rush, and instead traded back to 90. With the 90th pick, Las Vegas snagged Memphis’ offensive lineman, Dylan Parham.
Parham isn’t your average offensive lineman, and I don’t say that based on his talent (which he has a lot of) – I say that based on the nature of his positioning. At Memphis, Parham played guard and tackle, but he’s been projected to play center at the next level. This gives the Raiders an abundance of options when it comes to forming the offensive line this upcoming season.
For starters, I’ve mentioned in the past that former head coach Jon Gruden loved Andre James at center, but that doesn’t mean Josh McDaniels has to. James did have a rocky start at the beginning of last season, although there was a complete 180 somewhere in the middle.
Not wanting James at center doesn’t mean he’s subjected to the bench, though.
James also has versatility, being he’s able to play guard. If the coaching staff wishes, there’s no reason Parham can’t play center while James holds down a guard spot. Leatherwood would in turn play right tackle. There’s no need to settle for that though because there are a few other options.