Las Vegas Raiders first 2022 depth chart is full of surprises

Las Vegas Raiders first 2022 depth chart is full of surprises

Alex Leatherwood is the starting right tackle

After two defensive surprises, let’s take this over to the other side of the ball – The offense.

If you’ve followed my work over the offseason, you should know no one is less surprised at this development than myself. I’ve stated time and time again that Leatherwood will likely be the team’s right tackle despite playing well at guard to end the ’21 season, well before OTAs even began. I’ve also been in the minority claiming Leatherwood will play a key role on the Raiders’ offensive line in 2022.

That said, this is still a surprise to a good chunk of Raider Nation, so it has to be included.

Leatherwood has battled Brandon Parker for the right tackle spot throughout camp, and at times, it looked like Parker had the upper hand in the fight. While Leatherwood is heading into the first preseason contest as the team’s starting right tackle, the battle is still far from over, and he knows that.

The last few days at camp have treated Leatherwood well. Some of the Raiders’ media expressed doubts on Saturday when Parker spent the majority of practice running with the first-team offense and Munford over Leatherwood with the second-team, but I didn’t share the same worries. Since, on both Sunday and Monday, the second-year Raider has looked sharp and up for the challenge.

Through it all, Leatherwood has maintained his poise and willingness to grow, while exhibiting great professionalism. The Raiders’ tackle hasn’t just talked the talk, but has begun walking the walk. Now, leading the way for the starting right tackle job for the moment, Leatherwood will look to bring it home, beating out Parker, who Las Vegas paid $3.5 million to keep around – The 18th highest salary among right guards.