Raiders: Why Derek Carr will silence his critics in 2022

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - DECEMBER 12: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws the ball during the first quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images)
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - DECEMBER 12: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws the ball during the first quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images)
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Oct 24, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders offensive tackle Kolton Miller (74) walks off the field with media relations coordinator Katie Agostin after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Allegiant Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Eagles 33-22. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders offensive tackle Kolton Miller (74) walks off the field with media relations coordinator Katie Agostin after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Allegiant Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Eagles 33-22. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Raiders: Why Derek Carr will silence his critics in 2022

Emphasis on the Offensive Line

One of the Raiders’ top priorities in the offseason was to repair their offensive line, particularly run blocking. They obviously want to keep Carr upright. After all, the whole offense will not flourish if Carr is on the turf or they can’t open holes for the run game.

During the offseason, they added depth to the offensive line by signing free agents Jermaine Eluemunor, who played for McDaniels in New England, along with Alex Bars and Jackson Barton. In the draft, the Raiders selected Dylan Parham and Thayer Munford.

Two guys who they are very high on and believe have great upside.

The new coaching staff also wanted to be more versatile along the offensive line. According to voluntary mini camp reports, the Raiders have been cross training some of their linemen at multiple positions. For example, Alex Leatherwood has been lining up at right tackle and guard. One of the reasons they struggled last year was because of injuries and a lot of reshuffling.

An improved Raiders offensive line can help Carr have a great year by staying on their blocks long enough for Carr to get his feet set and get the ball out quickly.

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