The Las Vegas Raiders' offensive line struggled in 2025, to put it mildly. They were one of, if not the worst units in the NFL, with former quarterback Geno Smith leading the league in sacks taken and the rushing attack finishing dead last for the second consecutive season.
One of the players who had a down year was right tackle DJ Glaze. After being drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Glaze had a solid rookie season after being thrown in the fire due to injuries. There was a buzz that he could become a permanent starter across from Kolton Miller.
In 2025, that all changed as Glaze did not live up to expectations. He went from just three sacks allowed in 2024 to a whopping 10 in 2025. His issues with speed rushers became an even bigger issue, and fans clamored for a new right tackle.
Glaze has survived the transition to Klint Kubiak so far, and new offensive line coach Rick Dennision is a fan of his talent. Glaze has the measurables to become a good tackle in the NFL, but he would have to shore up his technique. Let's take a look at the film to see how he fared this preseason.
DJ Glaze’s preseason performance shows quick improvement for Raiders RT
With no one to challenge Glaze, he has made the most of the opportunity. According to PFF, he was the second-highest-graded Raiders offensive lineman in the preseason. On the field, he has looked much improved in run blocking and pass blocking.
As a run blocker, the pancakes are all over the film. It was live for every fan to see on the first run play against the San Francisco 49ers, as the Raiders ran inside zone to open the matchup, and Glaze set the tone.
Glaze starts with a combo block with right guard Jackson Powers Johnson and again leverages the defender. He then drives the defender into the ground, helping Washington Jr. get a nice gain to kick things off.
On this play against the Arizona Cardinals, the Raiders are running duo. Glaze gets in good position on a reach block and does a good job flipping his hips to gain leverage. He blocks all the way through the whistle, leading to another pancake.
In pass protection, Glaze didn't give up a sack or a pressure all preseason. His feet looked improved, with a quicker quick step that allows him to get into his set quickly. His punch timing has improved and is strong, with an emphasis on using his arm length to his advantage.
All of this has led to an improved player heading into the 2026 NFL season. If Glaze can continue to grow into a viable starter, it will help the Raiders’ offense improve after being one of the worst in the NFL just a year ago.
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