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3 Raiders who could earn starting roles during 2022 training camp

By Alexander Monfreda

OAKLAND, CA - AUGUST 19: A detailed view of a helmet belonging to and Oakland Raiders player sitting on top of a Gatorade cooler against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter of their preseason NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on August 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. The Ram won the game 24-21. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - AUGUST 19: A detailed view of a helmet belonging to and Oakland Raiders player sitting on top of a Gatorade cooler against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter of their preseason NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on August 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. The Ram won the game 24-21. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 05: Offensive tackle Brandon Parker #75 of the Las Vegas Raiders is introduced before a game against the Washington Football Team at Allegiant Stadium on December 05, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Washington Football Team defeated the Raiders 17-15. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 05: Offensive tackle Brandon Parker #75 of the Las Vegas Raiders is introduced before a game against the Washington Football Team at Allegiant Stadium on December 05, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Washington Football Team defeated the Raiders 17-15. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

3 Raiders who could earn starting roles during 2022 training camp

Brandon Parker

I get it. Parker struggled in 2021, allowing 8 sacks and committing 9 penalties. If that wasn’t bad enough, Pro Football Focus handed Parker his highest single-season grade for his ’21 performance, at 55.8. This means, through the eyes of PFF, these 8 sacks and 9 penalties make up Parker’s most efficient season.

So, why am I sparking up an argument that Parker could rise to a starting role in 2022? The answer is simple – It’s not about how Raider Nation views this, or Pro Football Focus, or any other outlet. All that matters is what Las Vegas’ coaching staff thinks of Parker.

For better or worse, we know the Raiders’ new regime is high on Parker. This became evident when the organization announced the third-round pick in 2018 was returning on a one-year deal, worth upwards of $3.5M. Upon signing his extension, Parker became the 18th highest-paid right tackle leaguewide, leaving the possibility to return as a starter on the table.

At the NFL owner’s meetings, earlier in the year, the new regime was quick to point to Parker’s ability to be a swing tackle. This versatility was cited as the key reason for the return of both Jermaine Eluemunor and himself, as the pairing of head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler made it clear that the two value players who can move around on the offensive line.

Despite the high(er) price tag on Parker’s contract, I don’t believe he’s the man Las Vegas envisions to start at right tackle for the ’22 season. That said, this value is certainly higher than a good faith type of deal, so expect some type of vision from the Raiders. As is, I could be wrong in assuming the Silver and Black have other plans at right tackle, but I have another player in mind for that job. Either way, Parker is a serious contender to start if camp goes his way.

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